Mohism

Definition

Mohism is a philosophical and ethical school of thought that originated in ancient China, founded by Mozi during the Warring States period. This school emphasized universal love, meritocratic governance, and utilitarianism, presenting an alternative to Confucianism. Mohism advocated for a society where actions are judged by their consequences and the well-being of all people is prioritized over familial ties or traditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mohism was founded by Mozi in the 5th century BCE as a response to the social and political turmoil during the Warring States Period.
2. Central to Mohism is the concept of 'universal love' (jian ai), which argues that individuals should care for all people equally, not just their family or friends.
3. Mohists advocated for merit-based governance, where leaders should be chosen based on ability and skill rather than noble birth or status.
4. The Mohist approach was deeply pragmatic; they believed that moral actions should be assessed based on their outcomes and effectiveness in improving society.
5. The influence of Mohism declined after the Han Dynasty as Confucian ideals became more dominant in Chinese philosophy and governance.

Review Questions

• How does Mohism compare to Confucianism in terms of values and ethical principles?
  • Mohism differs from Confucianism primarily in its emphasis on universal love and utilitarian ethics. While Confucianism stresses familial loyalty, hierarchical relationships, and tradition, Mohism promotes equal concern for all individuals regardless of their relationships. This approach reflects a more pragmatic view on morality, focusing on the consequences of actions rather than adherence to established customs or familial obligations.
• Discuss the significance of meritocracy in Mohist philosophy and how it contrasts with other systems of governance in ancient China.
  • Meritocracy is a crucial element of Mohist thought, as it advocates for leaders to be selected based on their abilities rather than their social class or lineage. This stood in stark contrast to the feudal systems prevalent in ancient China, where power often resided with noble families. By promoting skilled governance, Mohists believed society would benefit more effectively from capable leadership, fostering a more efficient and just administration.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Mohism on Chinese philosophy and its relevance in contemporary ethical discussions.
  • Despite its decline after the Han Dynasty, Mohism's principles of universal love and utilitarian ethics continue to resonate today, particularly in discussions around social justice and equality. By emphasizing outcomes over traditional hierarchies, Mohism challenges contemporary societies to reconsider how we assess moral actions. In an era where global interconnectedness is prevalent, the call for universal love aligns with modern ideals of global citizenship and humanitarian efforts, making Mohism a relevant point of reference for ethical discourse.

Related terms

Confucianism:

A philosophical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and respect for hierarchy and tradition.

Utilitarianism: An ethical theory that evaluates actions based on their consequences, specifically aiming to maximize overall happiness and well-being.

Warring States Period: A period in Chinese history (475-221 BCE) characterized by political fragmentation and constant military conflict among various states before the unification of China under the Qin Dynasty.