Fundamental Principles Mencius

History 8 China Review 100 Schools of Thought

Mencius's principles were very similar to those of Confucius though they differed in some aspects. Confucius and Mencius both believe that you have a responsibility towards your elders. Where the two philosophers differ is who the elders are. Confucius focused on respect and duty to elders in your family. Mencius on the other hand believed that your responsibility to others depended on their rank in social organization and social reltions. Mencius and Confucius also disagreed on the handling of a bad ruler. Confucius said to just ignore them whereas Mencius believed that rulers under which prosperity was not happening should be replaced. Mencius based his political ideas on the concept of Jen: humaneness and benevolence.

Lauren Biegel Source class notes http://www.chinatour360.com/history/mencius.htm