In what way did Mencius and Legalism differ fundamentally?

Mencius and Legalism differ fundamentally in their views on human nature, which is most clearly highlighted in the distinction between Mencius’ belief in the inherent goodness of people and the Legalist perspective that sees humans as primarily self-interested and driven by selfish motives.

Mencius argued that people are born with a sense of compassion and moral intuition, suggesting that with the right governance and leadership, individuals would naturally strive towards good behavior and ethical living. This perspective reflected a more optimistic view of humanity and emphasized the importance of cultivating virtue and moral education.

On the other hand, Legalism, represented by thinkers such as Han Fei, maintained that because people are innately selfish, they require strict laws and harsh punishments to ensure social order and stability. Legalists believed that strong, centralized authority and clear regulations were necessary to control inherently chaotic human impulses. This fundamentally pessimistic view necessitated stringent legal frameworks to maintain harmony in society.

Thus, the core difference lies in their fundamental beliefs about human nature—Mencius positing inherent goodness and Legalism framing humanity as selfish and requiring control. This distinction is crucial for understanding the broader philosophical debates in Chinese thought and governance strategies during that period.