Gaozi claims all innate instincts equal human nature. Mencius uses a white analogy to expose his flaw: if inherent traits define nature, dogs, oxen and humans would share identical essence. This refutes equating human nature with mere animal instincts and highlights humanity’s unique moral core.
Gaozi compares neutral human nature to water flowing east or west as channels guide it. Mencius counters that water naturally flows down, meaning humans innately lean toward good; evil only arises from external forces twisting one’s original nature.
Gaozi compares human nature to willow wood and morality to carved vessels, claiming benevolence and righteousness are artificial restraints. Mencius refutes this analogy, arguing morality should grow naturally from innate human goodness instead of mutilating one’s nature.
The Kang Gao (in the Book of Documents) says: “Be able to manifest your bright virtue.”The Tai Jia says: “Constantly reflect upon and uphold Heaven’s bright mandate.”The Di Dian (i.e., the Yao Dian) says: “Be able to illuminate your lofty and luminous virtue.” All of these point to self-illumination – making one’s own inner…
Following in the footsteps of Confucius, Mencius (Mengzi, 372–289 BCE) stands as the second great sage of Confucianism, whose teachings solidified and expanded the philosophical system laid by his predecessor. His work, Mencius, a collection of dialogues, debates, and moral arguments, is not merely a supplement to The Analects – it is a foundational…
Chu Zi asked Mencius: “The king sent someone to secretly observe you – does he really have any qualities that make him different from ordinary people?”
Mencius said: “A truly noble person is one who has not lost the heart of a newborn child.”
Mencius said: “One who harms himself cannot be reasoned with; one who abandons himself cannot be partnered with in meaningful action.”