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Wong, DB, Human Nature in the Ethics of Mengzi and Xunzi, in Oxford Handbook of Chinese Philosophy (January, 2025), pp. 101-144 [doi] .
(last updated on 2026/01/14)
Abstract:
Mengzi and Xunzi sometimes state their views in ways that make them look diametrically opposed to each other: the former says that human nature is good, while the latter says that human nature is bad. This chapter details how both explain their views in more complex and qualified ways that overlap in what they both acknowledge. Mengzi acknowledges inborn dispositions that can impede moral cultivation; Xunzi acknowledges inborn dispositions that contribute positive motivation for cultivation. Both Confucians have much to contribute to contemporary debates over what it means to say that a disposition is part of human nature. Mengzi points to ways that the inborn can involve a readiness to respond to conditions that spur its further development. Xunzi points to ways that cultural practices and norms can express and spur further development of inborn dispositions or regulate and restrain them. Contemporary scientific studies are marshaled to show that their views are as relevant today as when they were alive.

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			Papers Published Wong, DB, Human Nature in the Ethics of Mengzi and Xunzi, in Oxford Handbook of Chinese Philosophy (January, 2025), pp. 101-144 [doi] . (last updated on 2026/01/14) Abstract: Mengzi and Xunzi sometimes state their views in ways that make them look diametrically opposed to each other: the former says that human nature is good, while the latter says that human nature is bad. This chapter details how both explain their views in more complex and qualified ways that overlap in what they both acknowledge. Mengzi acknowledges inborn dispositions that can impede moral cultivation; Xunzi acknowledges inborn dispositions that contribute positive motivation for cultivation. Both Confucians have much to contribute to contemporary debates over what it means to say that a disposition is part of human nature. Mengzi points to ways that the inborn can involve a readiness to respond to conditions that spur its further development. Xunzi points to ways that cultural practices and norms can express and spur further development of inborn dispositions or regulate and restrain them. Contemporary scientific studies are marshaled to show that their views are as relevant today as when they were alive.