Abstract:

Mencius inherited Confucius’ path of “benevolence” and formed a relatively complete political theory of benevolence. The concept of “benevolent governance” is also a “royal way”. Its main content is to control the people’s property, take people’s ownership, do not violate agricultural seasons and attach importance to moral education. The core of benevolent governance is Mencius’ people-oriented ideology. The concentration of his people-oriented ideology is reflected in the following three aspects: those who win the people’s hearts will win the world, the relationship between the people and the monarch, and the way of serving the monarch and the minister. Mencius’ political theory outlined the blueprint for governing the country in ancient Chinese society and had a profound impact on traditional Chinese politics. Starting from the perspective of Mencius’ “benevolent governance” and people-oriented ideology, this paper systematically discusses Mencius’ governance ideology, thereby highlighting the special significance and charm of Mencius’ political philosophy. The people-oriented ideology in Mencius’ political theory has inspired a people-oriented harmonious society’s construction in contemporary society. Mencius attaches great importance to the core concept of moral education and provides guidance for the construction of political and spiritual civilization in today’s society.

Keywords:
Mencius; Political philosophy; Humanism; The idea of benevolent governance; Contemporary values