Confucianism and Mencius: Historical and Philosophical Foundations

Vocabulary flashcards covering the historical details, titles, and ethical concepts of Confucius and Mengzi (Mencius) as presented in the lecture notes.

Mengzi 孟子 (Mencius)

A philosopher who lived from $371-289$ and is regarded as a pupil of a grandson of Confucius; his work, known as the Mengzi, consists of reasoned arguments and examples from conversations with kings and contemporaries.

Confucius (Kong Fuzi 孔夫子)

Known as 'Master Kong,' he lived from $551-479$ v. Chr. (born September $28$, $551$ v. Chr.), originating from the lower aristocracy of the state of Lu.

Lunyu 論語 (Analects)

The collected sayings and teachings of Confucius focused on 'the man in the world' and the correct principles for a good life in society.

Li 禮

The correct principles or rites within a hierarchy; Confucius taught that everyone must act according to their position to achieve harmony.

Da cheng zhi sheng wen xuan Wang 大成至聖文宣王

A title from $1307-1530$ meaning 'The Lord Propagator of Culture Ultimate Sage and Great Accomplisher'.

Zhi sheng xian shi 至聖先師

A title granted in $1530$ meaning 'Ultimate Sage and First Teacher'.

Wan shi shi biao 萬世師表

A title granted in $1684$ meaning 'The Model Teacher of a Myriad Ages'.

Tiānmìng 天命

The Mandate of Heaven; the legitimacy of authority based on the ruler's care for the people's welfare through economic measures and light taxation.

Rén 仁

Humanity or benevolence; according to Mengzi, its beginning is found in the feeling of compassion.

Yì 義

Righteousness or justice; according to Mengzi, its beginning is found in the feeling of shame and disapproval.

Rén xìng 人性

Human nature; Mengzi argued that human nature is inherently good, though it can be damaged by context or restored through education.

Bù rěn

The inability to endure the suffering of others; used by Mencius as proof that human nature is inherently good.

Lĭ 禮 (Mencian definition)

Propriety or politeness; according to Mengzi, its beginning is the feeling of modesty and yielding.

Zhì 智

Wisdom; according to Mengzi, its beginning is the feeling of right and wrong.

Xìng 姓

The family name, which usually consists of $1$ character and became generalized during the Qin and Han dynasties.

Shì 氏

The clan name.

Míng 名

The given name; includes terms like xiăo míng and rǔ míng applied at $3$ months of age.

Zì 字

The style name or courtesy name given at puberty.

Qiū 丘/邱

The given name (míng) of Confucius; also referred to as mǒu 某 to avoid taboos.

Zhòngní 仲尼

The courtesy name (zì) of Confucius, indicating he was the second son.