Debate Question- Mohism

[Rob_Hugo@PortNW]

During the reading in the Unit plan I came across the very last section in the Mohism readings, called "Information and Order." I was suprised by the idea that Mohism believed that when good is rewarded/evil is punished the state is in order. In all the other reading it seemed like treating others' ______ (fill in with state, family, etc) as you would your own and loving your ruler/people/father/son/neighbor universally was the way to state order. The rewarding good/punishing bad seemed more in line with Legalism. Any thoughts?

Also, I'm making the assumption that since Mo studied with Confucionsists and then dissented based on the whole partiality thing, that Mohism is still based in the idea that "men are good". And that it is as optimistic as Confucionism. In fact, it seems to be even more optimistic than Confucionism, since Mo and his adherents were actually out in the country helping smaller states become military strategists. They practiced what they were philosophising about to bring about real change.

I hope this is in the right forum.

Amanda

[Anonymous]

Hi Amanda (and others),

The "Hundred School of Thoughts" period is interesting, especially since we tend to want to compartmentalize the different philosophies in order to understand the individual tenets of each.

I was taught that the fundamental difference between Confucianism and Mohism is the difference between intent and action. Confucian philosophy emphasizes intent and sincerity, whereas action was what mattered for the Mohists. An altruistic act, for example, meant little for Confucians unless it was motivated by the sincere want to do good, whereas for the Mohists a good act was a good act, regardless of the motivation. Therefore I don't know if one would characterize Mohism as more optimistic (especially in its views of human nature); perhaps just more pragmatic.

Attached is a grid I used with undergraduates when I was a teaching assistant for a traditional Chinese culture course - you may find it useful in breaking down some of the basics.

-Miranda

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