Review of Mencius In Modern Perspectives
-
Mamta Singhal
- Posts: 83
- Joined: 07 Apr 2024, 02:38
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 82
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mamta-singhal.html
- Latest Review: Natural Relief for Anxiety and Stress by Gustavo Kinrys, MD
Review of Mencius In Modern Perspectives
[Following is a volunteer review of "Mencius In Modern Perspectives" by Raymond K. Li.]
In a conversation between Mencius and King Hui of Liang, Mencius emphasizes the importance of Ren (humanity) and Yi (righteousness) over mere benefits. He argues that a ruler focused solely on benefits will foster a culture of selfishness and greed, leading to the nation's downfall. Instead, Mencius advocates for prioritizing humanity and righteousness, which will naturally lead to a stable and prosperous country. This book also explores the concepts of filial piety and virtue through a discussion between Wan Zhang and Mencius. It delves into why Shun, despite being an emperor, felt remorseful and sought his parents' forgiveness. Mencius highlights that true filial piety involves a deep emotional connection to one's parents, regardless of their actions.
Mencius emphasizes the importance of managing wealth and cultivating virtues to withstand adversity. He criticizes hypocrites who crave fame but lack genuine virtue. Mencius discusses the need for trustworthy and competent officials for stable governance, highlighting the significance of moral standards. He asserts that the people are the foundation of a state, more important than its rulers. Historical examples illustrate the enduring influence of saints on moral behavior.
The book "Mencius In Modern Perspectives" by Raymond K. Li offers a deep dive into the life and philosophy of Mencius, a key figure in Confucianism after Confucius himself. Written by Raymond K. Li, the book is designed to make Mencius's teachings accessible to English-speaking readers, providing not just a straightforward translation but also annotations, commentary, and modern perspectives.
Mencius's core philosophy revolves around self-cultivation, morality, governance, and politics. His teachings emphasize the intrinsic goodness of human nature and the importance of virtuous leadership. Mencius believed that rulers should be moral exemplars and that a well-governed society depends on the virtue of its leaders. He also stressed the significance of compassion, sincerity, and the intrinsic motivation behind moral actions, as opposed to actions driven by external recognition or rewards.
I gave it 5 out of 5 stars because the book also addresses the historical context in which Mencius lived, a period marked by political turmoil and philosophical debate, and I also found no dislikes in it. Mencius's ideas often stood in contrast to other contemporary schools of thought, such as the individualism of Yang Zhu and the universal love advocated by Mo Zi. Despite the challenges, Mencius's contributions have had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and philosophy, and the book aims to highlight the relevance of his ideas in the modern world. Mencius contrasts past virtuous leaders with modern ignorant ones attempting to guide others.
The book provides readers with philosophical insights into governance, ethics, and the consequences of prioritizing self-interest over communal well-being. It provides philosophical and ethical knowledge for readers interested in Confucian values regarding filial piety, virtue, and the dynamics of familial relationships in ancient Chinese thought. I checked up and found that the book's editing was prodigious, without errors.
This book is suitable for readers interested in Confucian philosophy, Chinese cultural history, and those seeking to understand Mencius's teachings in a modern context. It is perfect for students, researchers, and anyone interested in classical Chinese philosophy.
******
Mencius In Modern Perspectives
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In a conversation between Mencius and King Hui of Liang, Mencius emphasizes the importance of Ren (humanity) and Yi (righteousness) over mere benefits. He argues that a ruler focused solely on benefits will foster a culture of selfishness and greed, leading to the nation's downfall. Instead, Mencius advocates for prioritizing humanity and righteousness, which will naturally lead to a stable and prosperous country. This book also explores the concepts of filial piety and virtue through a discussion between Wan Zhang and Mencius. It delves into why Shun, despite being an emperor, felt remorseful and sought his parents' forgiveness. Mencius highlights that true filial piety involves a deep emotional connection to one's parents, regardless of their actions.
Mencius emphasizes the importance of managing wealth and cultivating virtues to withstand adversity. He criticizes hypocrites who crave fame but lack genuine virtue. Mencius discusses the need for trustworthy and competent officials for stable governance, highlighting the significance of moral standards. He asserts that the people are the foundation of a state, more important than its rulers. Historical examples illustrate the enduring influence of saints on moral behavior.
The book "Mencius In Modern Perspectives" by Raymond K. Li offers a deep dive into the life and philosophy of Mencius, a key figure in Confucianism after Confucius himself. Written by Raymond K. Li, the book is designed to make Mencius's teachings accessible to English-speaking readers, providing not just a straightforward translation but also annotations, commentary, and modern perspectives.
Mencius's core philosophy revolves around self-cultivation, morality, governance, and politics. His teachings emphasize the intrinsic goodness of human nature and the importance of virtuous leadership. Mencius believed that rulers should be moral exemplars and that a well-governed society depends on the virtue of its leaders. He also stressed the significance of compassion, sincerity, and the intrinsic motivation behind moral actions, as opposed to actions driven by external recognition or rewards.
I gave it 5 out of 5 stars because the book also addresses the historical context in which Mencius lived, a period marked by political turmoil and philosophical debate, and I also found no dislikes in it. Mencius's ideas often stood in contrast to other contemporary schools of thought, such as the individualism of Yang Zhu and the universal love advocated by Mo Zi. Despite the challenges, Mencius's contributions have had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and philosophy, and the book aims to highlight the relevance of his ideas in the modern world. Mencius contrasts past virtuous leaders with modern ignorant ones attempting to guide others.
The book provides readers with philosophical insights into governance, ethics, and the consequences of prioritizing self-interest over communal well-being. It provides philosophical and ethical knowledge for readers interested in Confucian values regarding filial piety, virtue, and the dynamics of familial relationships in ancient Chinese thought. I checked up and found that the book's editing was prodigious, without errors.
This book is suitable for readers interested in Confucian philosophy, Chinese cultural history, and those seeking to understand Mencius's teachings in a modern context. It is perfect for students, researchers, and anyone interested in classical Chinese philosophy.
******
Mencius In Modern Perspectives
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Natural Relief for Anxiety and Stress by Gustavo Kinrys, MD
