Mencius advocates benevolent governance. Labor serving public wellbeing draws no resentment; executions carried out to safeguard innocent lives win no hatred. Legitimacy hinges on rulers’ benevolent motives rather than harsh measures themselves.
Mencius explains Shun enfeoffed his murderous brother Xiang out of fraternal love yet stripped him of real power via appointed officials, balancing kin affection and public justice. Shun met Xiang often under political pretexts to sustain their bond.
Never transgress against public opinion which is in line with righteousness; to do so is to bring everlasting shame on oneself.
Trying to curry favour with individual is not as good as promoting public morality. Making new friends is not as good as consolidating old friendships. Creating a vainglorious reputation for oneself is not as good as quietly cultivating virtues. Advocating flamboyant behaviour and extraordinary deeds is not as good as acting cautiously in everyday…