Translation: The Essence of “Great Man” and “Small Man” in Mencius

In a dialogue from the ancient Chinese text “Mencius,” the philosopher Mencius explains the distinction between a “great man” and a “small man.” Gongduzi asked, “Why are some people called great men and others small men?” Mencius replied, “Those who consider great matters are called great men; those who consider small matters are called small men.” Gongduzi then asked, “Why do people engage in great or small matters?” Mencius explained, “The sensory organs such as the ears and eyes cannot think and are thus easily deceived. They merely follow external stimuli. The heart, however, can think. Thinking leads to understanding; without thinking, there is no understanding. This is a natural gift from Heaven. By prioritizing great matters, small matters cannot occupy one’s mind. This is why some are called great men.”

Analysis: Mencius’ Insight into Human Nature and Morality

This passage is from “Mencius · Gongduzi II” and reflects Mencius’ understanding of the qualities that define a great man versus a small man. He believes that one’s behavior and thoughts determine their moral standing. Mencius’ view has had a profound historical impact, becoming a core component of Confucian moral and ethical thought.

Historical Context

This dialogue emerged during the Warring States period, a time marked by constant power struggles and moral chaos among various feudal lords. In this turbulent environment, Mencius advocated for Confucian moral and ethical principles, emphasizing that a person’s actions and thoughts determine whether they are a great man or a small man. This perspective was highly relevant and significant during that era.

Mencius’ Clear Stance

Mencius’ stance is clear and unequivocal. He posits that the human body and mind are a unified entity, and both behavior and thought are crucial in determining one’s moral quality. This viewpoint highlights the humanistic spirit of Confucian moral ethics, emphasizing the inherent goodness and potential of human beings.

Logical Structure

Mencius’ writing is logically structured. He begins by posing a question, then provides his viewpoint, and finally uses metaphors to explain his ideas. This method not only engages readers but also helps them better understand his concepts.

Unique Expression

Mencius employs unique expression techniques. He uses metaphors such as “the organs of hearing and sight” and “the organ of the heart” to compare human behavior and thought to respective officials. This vivid analogy brings abstract moral concepts to life, making them more relatable and comprehensible.

Rhetorical Techniques

Mencius utilizes rhetorical techniques such as rhetorical questioning, repetition, and parallelism. Through repeated questioning, he guides readers to deeply contemplate the issues, making his points more impactful. Additionally, his use of parallelism enhances the rhythm of the text, making it more fluent and engaging to read.

Emotional Depth and Philosophical Insight

Mencius’ dialogue is filled with profound philosophical insights that provoke deep reflection. His distinction between great men and small men is not merely a personal moral requirement but also a societal moral expectation. This deep thought and expectation are imbued with a rich emotional and philosophical depth.

In conclusion, Mencius’ dialogue in this passage is characterized by its brisk style, clear viewpoints, unique rhetorical techniques, and profound emotional depth. It is a significant reflection of Mencius’ philosophical thought, emphasizing both individual and societal moral standards. This deep reflection and expectation have had a lasting influence on subsequent generations.