Xunzi (《荀子》) 

1. Basic Information

• Author: Xun Kuang (Xunzi, c. 313–238 BCE)
• Period: Late Warring States period (China)
• School: Confucianism (with Legalist influences)
• Text: 32 chapters (essays on philosophy, politics, ethics, and education)

2. Core Philosophical Ideas

• Human Nature:
  • “Human nature is evil” (性恶论, xìng è lùn) – Contrary to Mencius’ “innate goodness,” Xunzi argues that humans are born selfish and require moral training.
• Moral Cultivation:
  • “Transform nature through conscious effort” (化性起伪, huà xìng qǐ wěi) – Virtue is achieved through education, rituals (li 礼), and laws (fa 法).
• Society & Governance:
  • “Clarify social roles to ensure order” (明分使群, míng fēn shǐ qún) – Hierarchy and rules are necessary for harmony.
  • Emphasis on ritual (li) and law (fa) – Blends Confucian ethics with Legalist discipline.

3. Key Comparisons

• vs. Mencius:
  • Mencius: “Human nature is good” → Moral potential is innate.
  • Xunzi: “Human nature is evil” → Morality must be taught.
• vs. Legalism:
  • Xunzi values li (ritual/ethics) alongside fa (law), whereas Legalists prioritize strict laws and punishment.

4. Influence & Legacy

• Impact on Confucianism: Shaped Han Dynasty Confucian thought (e.g., Dong Zhongshu).
• Bridge to Legalism: His student Han Feizi became a Legalist founder.
• Modern Relevance: Debates on education, ethics, and governance.

5. Notable Chapters

• “Encouraging Learning” (《劝学》) – The importance of education.
• “On Ritual” (《礼论》) – Role of rituals in moral development.
• “The Regulations of a King” (《王制》) – Ideal governance.