The Moral Interpretation and Enlightenment of Mencius’ Thoughts on Real Men

Abstract

Mencius proposed the idea of a great man with a complete theoretical framework as the foundation of life. Mencius not only explained the profound connotation of a great man, which is to live in benevolence, to establish propriety, to follow righteousness, not to be licentious, not to change, and not to yield, but also criticized the moral deviance of villains such as a mean man, a petty man, and a good man. “Living in the broadest place in the world, standing in the right position in the world, and following the great way in the world” reflects the moral ideal of a great man; “If you are successful, follow the people; if you are unsuccessful, follow your own way.” reflects the code of conduct of a great man; “Wealth and honor cannot be licentious, poverty and humbleness cannot be changed, and power and force cannot bend.” reflects the moral persistence of a great man. The moral enlightenment of the idea of a great man lies in: adhering to moral beliefs, correcting one’s own role, and following the moral path; serving the people and self-cultivation; adhering to the moral bottom line, ideals and beliefs, and fairness and justice. In Chinese history, the idea of a great man has been recognized by many people of lofty ideals and has become a spiritual force to inspire national self-esteem and self-improvement. In today’s era, everyone should deeply understand the idea of a real man and its implications, give full play to its due role in guiding personal growth, and set a benchmark for the moral cultivation of contemporary college students.