Benevolence is one of the distinguishing characters of man.
MENCIUSBenevolence is one of the distinguishing characters of man.
MENCIUSHuman nature is good, just as water seeks low ground. There is no man who is not good, just as there is no water that does not flow downward.
MENCIUSMankind fears an evil man but heaven does not.
MENCIUSSo I like life and I like righteousness; if I cannot keep the two together, I will let life go and choose righteousness.
MENCIUSIf the King loves music, it is well with the land.
MENCIUSHuman nature is disposed to do good.
MENCIUSIf you know that a thing is unrighteous, then use all dispatch in putting an end to it–why wait till next year?
MENCIUSThe way is near, but men seek it afar. It is in easy things, but men seek for it in difficult things.
MENCIUSPeople are eager to comment on something when they themselves are not in the situation of doing it.
MENCIUSThe foundation of the world lies in the nation. The foundation of the nation lies in the family. The foundation of the family lies in the individual.
MENCIUSKindly words do not enter so deeply into men as a reputation for kindness.
MENCIUSThe great person never loses a childlike spirit.
MENCIUSWhere it is permissible both to die and not to die, it is an abuse of valour to die.
MENCIUSThe feeling of compassion is the beginning of humanity.
MENCIUSThe feeling of right or wrong is the beginning of wisdom.
MENCIUSAll things are already complete in us. There is no greater delight than to be conscious of right within us. If one strives to treat others as he would be treated by them, he shall not fail to come near the perfect life.
MENCIUS