Mohism

Definition

Mohism is a philosophical system founded by Mozi during the Warring States period in ancient China, emphasizing universal love, meritocracy, and utilitarianism. It presented a significant challenge to Confucianism by advocating for a more egalitarian society and prioritizing the welfare of the common people over the rigid social hierarchy upheld by Confucian ideals. This philosophy contributed to the broader discourse on ethics and governance during the Zhou dynasty.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mohism emerged as a response to the social inequalities and conflicts prevalent during the Warring States period, promoting a more egalitarian approach to society.
2. The core principle of Mohism is 'jian ai,' or universal love, which encourages people to treat all individuals with equal concern, regardless of their social status.
3. Mohists emphasized meritocracy in government, advocating that leaders should be chosen based on their abilities and contributions rather than their noble birth or familial connections.
4. Mohism also included practical applications of philosophy, such as technology and engineering, advocating for innovations that would improve society's welfare.
5. The decline of Mohism was largely due to the resurgence of Confucianism under the Han dynasty, which became the dominant ideology in China, overshadowing Mohist thought.

Review Questions

• How does Mohism challenge Confucian ideals regarding social hierarchy and governance?
  • Mohism challenges Confucian ideals by advocating for universal love and meritocracy instead of strict adherence to social hierarchies. While Confucianism emphasizes respect for one's elders and maintaining traditional roles within a structured society, Mohism promotes equality among individuals and argues that leaders should be chosen based on their skills rather than their noble lineage. This presents a fundamental shift in thinking about governance and social relations during a time when societal structure was tightly controlled.
• Discuss the significance of 'jian ai' (universal love) in Mohist philosophy and its implications for society during the Zhou dynasty.
  • 'Jian ai,' or universal love, is central to Mohist philosophy and posits that individuals should care for all people equally without regard for their social status or relationship. This principle has profound implications for societal cohesion and moral behavior during the Zhou dynasty, as it encourages community support and reduces conflict driven by class differences. By fostering an environment where everyone’s well-being is prioritized, Mohism seeks to create a harmonious society that contrasts sharply with the hierarchical structures promoted by Confucianism.
• Evaluate how Mohism’s emphasis on meritocracy influenced later Chinese political thought and its relationship with Confucianism.
  • Mohism's emphasis on meritocracy significantly influenced later Chinese political thought by challenging traditional views on governance that favored hereditary rule. This merit-based approach laid early groundwork for concepts that would resurface during various dynasties when civil service examinations were introduced. However, despite its innovative ideas, Mohism's decline in influence can be attributed to Confucianism's resurgence under the Han dynasty, which reinforced hierarchical structures. The tension between these two philosophies highlights ongoing debates about leadership ethics and societal values throughout Chinese history.

Related terms

Mozi: The founder of Mohism, Mozi was a philosopher who advocated for universal love and practical governance, opposing the Confucian focus on hierarchy and tradition.

Confucianism: A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and the importance of family and hierarchy.

Utilitarianism: A philosophical theory that suggests that actions are right if they promote happiness or well-being; Mohism applied this idea to governance, focusing on actions that benefit the majority.