The Innate Goodness of Human Nature: Mencius on Natural Virtue and Moral Intuition

Translation

Mencius said: “What people naturally do without learning is their innate goodness. What people understand without deliberation is their innate moral sense. Children of two or three years old naturally love their parents, and as they grow older, they naturally respect their elder brothers. Affection for family establishes mutual love among people, and respect for elder siblings represents the highest standard of behavior. There is no other reason; it is the universal way of humanity.”

Analysis

This passage from Mencius, clear and profound, offers a deep reflection on human nature and moral principles. It distills the essence of human goodness and moral intuition into a few succinct sentences, capturing fundamental truths about human behavior and relationships.

Mencius begins by stating, “What people naturally do without learning is their innate goodness; what people understand without deliberation is their innate moral sense.” This insight is a high-level summary of his belief in the inherent goodness of human nature. According to Mencius, people possess an intrinsic goodness that requires no external teaching, and their moral understanding arises naturally without deep contemplation. This aligns with Mencius’ theory of “innate goodness,” which posits that human nature is fundamentally good and that evil arises from external influences and education. Mencius believed that, like bright gems covered in dust, a person’s innate goodness and moral sense might be obscured but will shine brightly once uncovered.

The statement, “Children of two or three years old naturally love their parents; as they grow older, they naturally respect their elder brothers,” further illustrates the universality of innate goodness and moral sense. Mencius uses the example of children to show that affection for parents and respect for elder siblings are natural behaviors. These traits, which Mencius terms “benevolence” and “righteousness,” are integral to human nature. Importantly, Mencius believed that these virtues are not confined to the family context but are universal values that can be extended to all of humanity. This concept underscores his belief in the possibility of cultivating a universally just and harmonious society.

Mencius’ use of children as examples highlights the purity and value of innate goodness. Children act out of instinct and intuition, which are the closest to their true nature. This natural love and respect are not the results of deliberate thought but are inherent qualities. Mencius admired this innate purity and goodness, which he saw as emblematic of the highest moral standards.

Moreover, Mencius’ remarks reveal his understanding of the role of education and environment in shaping human nature. While he believed in the innate goodness of people, he also recognized that without proper guidance and nurturing, this inherent goodness could be obscured or distorted. Therefore, Mencius’ theory of innate goodness is not static but involves a dynamic process of development and cultivation.

The passage showcases Mencius’ profound philosophical insights and moral ideals while reflecting the elegance of classical Chinese language. Each word and phrase is imbued with deep cultural and intellectual significance, highlighting the unique beauty of ancient Chinese thought.

In conclusion, Mencius’ statements provide a profound exploration of innate goodness and moral intuition. They affirm the value of human nature’s inherent virtues and emphasize the importance of education and guidance in preserving and developing these qualities. This reflection on human nature serves as a timeless reminder of the virtues that underpin a just and harmonious society.