CATEGORY

Mencius is a Confucian classic recording the words of Mencius. a thinker and an educator of the midWarring States period and an important representative of the Confucian school, and his followers. It was compiled by Mencius and his disciples.

There are 7 existing "books" or chapters in Mencius, which mainly record Mencius' political activities and doctrines, and his philosophical, ethical and educational thoughts. Mencius was an ardent advocator of the Confucian doctrine. He developed Confucius' thinking of "benevolence" into the doctrine of "benevolent government", and he advanced the theory that "human nature is good", using it as the theoretical basis for this doetrine. He also advocated being modelled on the sage Kings Yao and Shun, instituting the 'jing-field system", "esteeming the virtuous and able", and practising "true kingship" With regard to the relationship between the ruler and his people, he held that the people are of the first importance while "the ruler is of the least importance".

The English translation of this edition, with reference to various translations, is the latest English translation of the book.