History of Philosophy: India, Africana, China
HPC 16. To Become or Not to Become: the Confucians on Our Moral Natures
Nov 3, 2024
The podcast delves into Confucian views on human nature and morality. It examines the contrasting beliefs of Mengzi and Shunzi regarding whether morality is innate or cultivated. The discussion highlights how societal influences shape moral development. Listeners are invited to consider the complex relationship between individual moral agency and external factors.
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Quick takeaways
- The Confucians debate whether morality is innate or cultivated, highlighting the significance of social norms and ethical practices in shaping human nature.
- The concept of heaven in Warring States Confucianism serves as a moral authority, emphasizing the universal expectation of striving for virtue and ethical living.
Deep dives
Philosophical Perspectives on Human Nature
Warring States thinkers contemplated the essence of humanity, questioning what makes humans unique, particularly focusing on our cognitive, moral, and social skills. Yang Tzu argued for preserving human nature from negative societal influences, while Meng Tzu believed in the cultivation of natural capacities through social engagement to foster benevolence and propriety. Contrary to Yang Tzu, the main tenets of Confucian philosophy promote the idea that human nature can be developed positively through social norms and ethical practices. The fundamental debate centers around whether external influences are helpful or harmful to human moral development.
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