Using Xunzi and Mencius to Adapt and Reclaim Modernity: A Reconstruction of Confucianism in the Modern Context

• Published in: Journal of Chinese humanities (Leiden) 2020-12, Vol.6 (1), p.64-76
• Main Author: Guo, Yi
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2352-1333; 2352-1341
• DOI: 10.1163/23521341-12340090

Abstract Reconstructing Confucianism for the modern age presents us with two main tasks. The first is to borrow from the tradition of Xunzi 荀子 in order to face the challenges of Westernization and modernization and, in turn, modernize ourselves. The second is to embrace the tradition of Mencius 孟子 with the purpose of defining our own cultural and personal values, guarding against some of the pitfalls of modernization. In many ways, the Xunzi branch is more beneficial for the continuing growth of Confucianism: it is analytical - even scientific - in its approach to political theory. But, of course, it is not a complete system. Xunzi correctly discovered the dark side of human nature, but Mencius correctly discovered its good side. These two systems of philosophy are each well equipped for complementing the other's shortcomings. This is why we advocate for a critical unification of Mencius' and Xunzi's philosophies, with the aim of helping Confucianism evolve into a philosophy that is relevant and prosperous in the twenty-first century.