Chinese Philosopher: Mozi

A detailed Summary of Chinese Philosopher: Mozi

Reading Sources of Chinese Tradition page 65 it was apparent that the most influential philosopher was Mozi. "Mozi's most characteristic doctrine comes close to asserting that all human beings are created equal before God. Believing in Heaven as an active power manifesting love for all, he urged that all people follow Heaven in this by practicing universal love." Universal love would be the principle on which Moism was based. Mozi saw Heaven and associated that with God. God being someone who loves all people no matter their class, position, or ethnicity. Mozi believed if God loves everyone equally, Chinese people should strive to love one another in the same manner.

Moism differs from Confucianism in that Moism believes in rationalistic standards. Mozi never comprehended the excessive use of rituals, funerals and music. Moism challenged Confucianism for prominence in China for some time until the violent Qin Empire changed that. Interesting that today Moism would have a fairly large following considering the parallels it shares with Christianity. In the Holy Bible, Jesus Christ said, "Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." (Luke 6:31) However, back then f

Universal love is loosely defined by the strong helping the weak. Wealthy people should make an effort to get the poor on their feet. Ultimately the hungry people will have food and shelter, the cold people will have clothes, and the disturbed will have peace. Again this is similar in Christian beliefs in that the one that follows God or Heaven is righteous. And the righteous people won't oppress the weak or deceive. It was vital to promote what was beneficial in the world, and eliminate what was cancerous. Mozi's fundamental issue of Universal love was criticized heavily by a few other important people including Guan-zi and Mencius. Guan-zi worried that if everyone accepted universal love then no soldiers would fight. Mencius had stronger points. For instance, he stated that love without difference of degree was unrealistic and that love must begin with our parents. He also didn't understand Mozi's beliefs about funerals and music. Even so some of his critics respected him as in the case of Zhuang-zi. Zhuang-zi also didn't understand Mozi's hang up with funerals and music. Furthermore, he states that people will express joy in singing and grief in wailing. He wonders whethe

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Approximate Word count = 804
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

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