SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES IN THE HUMAN NATURE THEORIES OF MENCIUS AND XUNZI AND THEIR INTEGRATION IN YANGMING’S PHILOSOPHY OF MIND

Abstract

The question of human nature has long been a central issue in philosophical inquiry, profoundly impacting later generations. Mencius's theory of innate goodness and Xunzi’s theory of innate evil, create a comprehensive and practical theoretical system of mind and nature. The two philosophers differ in their understanding of human nature, the path to fulfilling one’s life mission, their definitions of human essence, and the focus of moral practice. However, their theories also have complementary aspects, as both emphasize the importance of postnatal education and share the goal of achieving social harmony and stability. During the Ming dynasty, Wang Yangming’s School of Mind synthesized both theories. This paper delves into these theories of human nature proposed by Mencius and Xunzi, with the goal to highlight the value of educational righteousness and morality presented by both philosophers. The study evaluates how the Mencius’s theory of innate goodness and Xunzi’s theory of innate evil resonate with Wang Yangming’s transcendence of the innate goodness and innate evil dichotomy, and what agreement of singularity or compatibility exists between them. Mencius and Xunzi, through their philosophical views, offer valuable guidance for personal growth, education, and social governance, which inculcates feelings of social responsibility, social harmony and stability among the people.