Natural Theology Reconfigured

The Debates on Human Nature and Political Governance in Ancient China: Mencius, Xunzi and Han Feizi

“…For instance, rulers should provide aid to people when there are starvation, which is a practice of benevolence (ren), but not let people struggle by themselves. Since the kings implement a benevolent ruling and maintain a good social environment for the people, the citizen would have more leisure time for self-cultivating their innate goodness as well 18 . Finally, a moral social order would establishe as long as the rule by rituals is actualized.…”

“…[5]. 18 "If your Majesty will confer benevolent rule on the people, lighten punishments, reduce taxation, encourage deep ploughing and the use of the hoe; if in their spare time the able-bodied make an effort to be filial, fraternal, conscientious and faithful, rendering service to their fathers and elder brothers in the home, and out of it, to their seniors and superiors" [5]. nition of human nature as people's original desires [15] [16].…”

“…Once these kinds of evil inner nature are being practiced by people and extend to the whole society, the society would result in turmoil 23 . Therefore, humans inborn with greed, envy and lust [18]. Stealing and robberies occurred would occurred as people's avarice need to be fulfilled; Usurpations and loss of loyalty would appear as people's practice according to envy; lascivious society would be resulted as people need to satisfy their lusts.…”