Listen to this articleIntroduction
Mozi, also known as Mo Tzu, was a philosopher who lived during the Pre-Qin period in ancient China. He is known for his ethical and political teachings that centered around the concept of universal love, or “jian’ai” in Chinese. In this article, we will discuss Mozi’s life and major ideas.
Life
Mozi was born in the state of Lu in China in the 5th century BCE. He was a contemporary of Confucius, but the two had different philosophies and never met. Mozi was a carpenter before becoming a philosopher, and he is said to have traveled around China to spread his ideas. He founded the Mohist school of thought, which was based on his teachings.
Universal Love
The concept of universal love, or “jian’ai,” was central to Mozi’s philosophy. Mozi believed that everyone should love and care for one another, regardless of their social status or relationship. He believed that this would lead to a more harmonious and peaceful society.
Against War and Violence
Mozi was also known for his opposition to war and violence. He believed that wars were a waste of resources and that they caused unnecessary suffering. Mozi believed that disputes between states and individuals should be resolved through peaceful means.
Conclusion
Mozi’s teachings on universal love, impartiality, and nonviolence were influential in ancient China and continue to be studied and discussed today. His ideas have been compared to those of other philosophers, such as Confucius and Mencius, but Mozi’s emphasis on universal love and nonviolence set him apart from his contemporaries.
