The Influence of Environment on Human Nature: Mencius on Virtue and Commonality

In the realm of ancient Chinese philosophy, Mencius (孟子) offers a compelling perspective on the impact of environment on human nature. In his discourse, Mencius articulates a fundamental principle: the environment plays a crucial role in shaping human behavior and virtue. He states, “In a year of abundance, children of the common people are generally more inclined towards advantage, while in a year of disaster, they tend to become more violent. This is not due to differing innate qualities bestowed by Heaven, but rather because external factors cause their inherent virtues to be compromised by their environment. Consider barley: if the land is uniformly prepared and the sowing time is consistent, the barley will thrive and mature by the summer solstice. Differences arise only from soil fertility, the amount of rain, and the labor applied. So, why doubt the uniformity in human nature when all similar things generally behave alike?”

Mencius uses the analogy of barley cultivation to illustrate how environmental conditions affect the growth of similar organisms. The key point is that differences in results arise not from the inherent qualities of the barley but from external factors such as soil quality and care. This analogy extends to human nature, suggesting that just as barley grows differently based on environmental conditions, so do humans act differently based on their circumstances.

Further, Mencius draws on the commonality of sensory experiences to argue for a fundamental similarity in human nature. He mentions how taste preferences, auditory enjoyment, and visual appreciation are universal. For instance, everyone shares similar tastes, as evidenced by the widespread appreciation of dishes prepared by Yi Ya (易牙), the renowned ancient chef. Similarly, all people value the music of the famous musician Shi Kuan (师旷) and recognize the beauty of the well-known figure Zi Du (子都). These examples serve to show that despite individual differences, there is a shared sensory experience among humans.

Mencius then extends this idea to the moral realm. He argues that just as people have similar tastes, hearing, and sight, they also share common moral sensibilities. The wisdom of the sage, Mencius claims, lies in understanding these commonalities in human nature. The sage’s role is to harness this universal understanding of virtue to guide and influence others. In essence, Mencius contends that the principles of virtue and moral conduct are as universal and consistent as sensory experiences.

This perspective forms a crucial part of Mencius’s theory of human nature, which posits that humans are inherently good, but their virtues can be overshadowed by their environment. The example of children’s behavior in times of plenty versus scarcity vividly illustrates how external circumstances can lead to different manifestations of innate goodness. Mencius’s insights reflect a deep understanding of the interplay between environment and personal virtue and underscore the importance of improving societal conditions to foster moral development.

Mencius’s use of analogies—comparing sensory experiences to moral qualities—demonstrates his ability to present complex ideas in a relatable and persuasive manner. By illustrating the commonality of taste, sound, and beauty, he effectively argues that moral virtues are similarly universal. This method not only makes his argument accessible but also emphasizes the inherent consistency in human nature.

In summary, Mencius’s discourse on the influence of environment highlights a significant aspect of his philosophy. His analogy of barley growth and the universal aspects of sensory perception support his belief in the shared nature of human virtue. Mencius’s approach underscores the need to cultivate favorable environments to allow inherent virtues to flourish. His thoughtful analysis offers valuable insights into the dynamics of human behavior and the role of external factors in shaping moral character. Even in contemporary contexts, Mencius’s reflections on virtue and environment remain relevant, reminding us of the enduring impact of our surroundings on personal and collective morality.