Mencius believes that all human beings possess kindness and care about each other. He also believes that all men (human beings) are born with four principles; benevolence, righteousness, propriety, and knowledge. Additionally, He believes that if these principles are allowed to develop within them, they "...will suffice to love and protect all within the four seas.", but if they are not allowed to develop, "...they will not suffice for a man to serve his parents with."
What does Xun Zi believe about human nature?
Xun Zi believes that all humans are born bad and that their nature is bad. He believes that good is a product of human study and effort, and that it can be only acquired through good teaching and good friends to associate with. He also believes that laws and limitations, along with rituals and moral principles shape people's feelings and transform their emotional nature, while guiding them.
Who do you line up with? Why?
I agree with Xun Zi on his view of human nature. Human beings, like all other animals are wild in nature. Its the laws, limitations, and moral principles that are imposed upon us which transform us from our wild nature to a more civilized nature. Therefore, I agree with Xun Zi on his view of humans; that they are born with a bad nature, but can be corrected and made good through study and effort.
huh. Interesting to think of humans as being born as wild animals who are essentially domesticated. Haven't thought of that one before. I'll be interested to see if this idea holds up as we go along!
ReplyDelete