A Study of Xunzi’s Political and Economical Thought

• Main Authors: HSU FU HAI, 徐福海
• Other Authors: 何 廣 棪
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2008
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/09290332639511604368

碩士 === 華梵大學 === 東方人文思想研究所 === 96 === ABSTRACT Xunzi, born in the Era of Warring States, is a well-known Confucian after Mencius. The research of this paper will explore the background of the Era he had gone through. At that time, the society was in turmoil. He succeeded the tradition of Confucianism on one hand, and on the other hand, he initiated specific measures both politically and economically. The foundations of Xunzi’s philosophy are "Discussion of Heaven (天道 Tian Dào)", "Discussion of Mind (心性Sin Sheng)" and "Discussion of Etiquette (禮Li)". According to Xunzi, Tian Dào can be divided into three main ideas: the rules of the nature, the relationships between nature and human beings and the surroundings that shape a man. The Mind is something which one was endowed with. When it happens that one's mind is empty, one is able to possess much intellect without said intellect interfering with the process of absorbing new information. The Mind dominates both one's body and consciousness. Xunzi claims that “ Man’s nature is evil.” A man will gradually taste the bitter fruit if he does things following his nature. Therefore, one must “Change his nature from bad to good” then he will be likely to incline to goodness. As for the Etiquette, Xunzi emphasizes more on its functions including propriety, cultivation and manners. Politically, Xunzi advocates a ruler has to govern a country by etiquette. He not only focuses on the etiquette itself but also on the laws. The ways of handling a nation, either by sage kings or ruling sovereign( 霸道 Ba Dào), are of equal importance. He will follow the ways the sage kings have done and rule the people with laws. The ruler should make use of those who are wise and capable in managing the country, protecting it from being invaded. Therefore, the country will be strong. Economically, Xunzi’s belief, “man’s desire to live” will be referred first. Then a further discussion of the concepts: consumption, production, exchange, distribution and finance will follow. Practically, he insists that everyone should develop his profession. And to cultivate human resources is significant to the development of the economy. Plus, both the development of agriculture and business are equally highlighted. The notions of Xunzi reflect the significance of his contemporary. It is also valuable in certain aspects to the present time. Everyone in Taiwan is concerned mostly about politics and the economy; from the philosophical basis to the practice, can be a mirror of the ruler nowadays.