Is the Mind in Mencius` Philosophy Self-Sufficient for Moral Cultivation?

Author:Wing-Wah Chan

Abstract /

Some contemporary interpreters of Mencius` philosophy think that Mencian moral cultivation depends upon the "conscience" (liang chih良知) of human beings. Since conscience is the defining characteristic of human beings and can offer moral guidance to them, by obeying the guidance of conscience, one can by himself accomplish moral cultivation, and can even achieve sagehood. Tu Wei-Ming states this position clearly.

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