22 Jun When one throws to me a peach, I return to him a plum.
MOZI (~ 470-391 BC)
Mozi was born around 470 BC, shortly after Confucius’ death, and received the traditional Chinese culture, which was based on classical texts. However, later he disliked the emphasis that the Confucianism gave on race relations, something which led him to create his own school of thought supporting universal love or Jian aye.By Jian aye, the Mozi means that we must care for all people the same, regardless of their social position or their relationship with us. He considers this philosophy, which “sustains and preserves life,” as absolutely peaceful and in harmony with the requirements of Sky` this philosophy was called Mohism.
Mozi believes that our actions always have reciprocity. If we treat others as we want to be treated, then we will get similar behaviour. This is the significance of the saying “When one throws to me apeach, I return to him a plum.”
According to Mozi, when this principle for all is followed by leaders, wars are avoided. When it is followed by all, it leads to a harmonious and therefore more productive society.
This idea is governed by a similar spirit to the idea of utilitarianism, proposed by western philosophers in the 19th century.
Philosophy in simple words
The translation is based on the Greek text.
