Dansan Academy

  This document explores the philosophical contributions of Mencius, a pivotal figure who expanded upon Confucius's teachings by introducing new concepts such as the innate goodness of human nature (性善, Xing Shan) and the cultivation of righteous energy (養氣, Yang Qi). Through examining his key philosophical principles, relationships with other Confucian scholars, and enduring influence on East Asian thought, we will discover how Mencius's ideas about moral cultivation and governance continue to resonate in contemporary society. Mencius as Confucius's Intellectual Successor Mencius (孟子, 372-289 BCE) stands as one of the most influential figures in the Confucian tradition, developing and extending the original teachings of Confucius in significant ways. While Confucius primarily emphasized ren (仁, benevolence/humaneness) and zhi (志, will/aspiration) in his philosophical framework, Mencius expanded this foundation by incorporating deeper examinations of yi (義, righteousness) a...