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... Thus, Mencius argues that at a moral level, humans are characterized both by an innate equality and an acquired inequality. ... Using the idea of a human heart as the one ˇ§thinking organˇ¨ as the basis of his entire philosophy , Mencius not only explains how innate equality evolves into inequality but also justifies the distinction between ˇ§superiorˇ¨ men and ˇ§inferiorˇ¨ ones. This paper will analyze how Mencius defines innate equality and acquired inequality, and how he differentiates between gentlemen and common men, as his ultimate claim, that such a distinction is necessary for the maintenance of a stable state, is based on an understanding of these concepts.
By defining how innate human characteristics are distinguished from acquired ones, Mencius is able to coherently argue that both moral equality and inequality are part of human nature. ... When Mencius states that inequality is ˇ§part of their nature,ˇ¨ he does not mean that men are created unequal, but that acquired behavior will cause such a state to inevitably arise among them (prompt- get citation).
To argue this point, Mencius suggests how this shift from moral equality to inequality occurs. ... Inequality arises naturally between morally superior and inferior men because some are better able to resist animalistic drives. ...
By this logic, Mencius also deems inequality necessary to maintain order in society. ... Such is the job of a butcher, for example, whose labor is necessary for the survival of the community. ... Thus Mencius establishes a system of governance in which inequality is necessary and mutually beneficial for both ruler and ruled. ... Not withstanding this oversight, Mencius is able to reconcile equality and inequality in human nature and justifies the relationship between ruler and ruled.
Approximate Word count = 1393
Approximate Pages = 5.6
(250 words per page double spaced)
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