Question

What novel insight did Mencius bring to Confucius’ thought?

A. Human nature is not a factor in determining whether someone is “Good”

B. Different cultures may disagree on the appropriate rituals and rites

C. Human nature is essentially and innately good

D. One ought to love everyone as if they were a sibling

Answer 1

The novel insight that Mencius brought to Confucius’ thought was that human nature is essentially and innately good.

Option: (C)

Explanation:

• The entire faith or the religion of Confucianism is based on the thought of the goodness of human nature and the significance of virtue in human life.
• Mencius, a renowned Confucian philosopher, proposed that human nature is originally good and is only subjected to contamination due to external influences.
• He also stated that human nature can be perfected by inculcating virtue on the minds of people.