Many books that we have read this semester have to do with Confucianism. Before taking this class, I had heard of Confucianism, but thought of it as a religion. I have come to understand that it is more of a philosophy or attitude that deals with human beings. It has to do with a persons achievements and interests in life. Confucianism says that man is the center of the universe. Mencius believed that human nature is intrinsically good, and each person should try to recover the original good nature. By doing these things one is able to become a good leader. He believed this, especially in government, and explains this fact to the many important people he comes across.
             Mencius had gone to see King Hui of Liang in the beginning of Book 1 Part A. King Hui believed that Mencius had traveled the long distance because he believed that he would be able to profit from this state. This thought was incorrect as Mencius tells the King "those above and those below will be trying to profit at the expense of one another and the state will be imperiled."(Mencius p.49). He continues to explain that the only thing that matters in life is what is good and right. King Hui should not worry about profit when there are more important parts of life to consider. He continues on to say how a superior government is one that reduces punishment and taxation and stresses education for all those in the country. Through this education people will learn to respect each other and their king. For Mencius an education was more important than a good government because people love education but at the same time fear government. If the people of the country are given !
             the basic needs, then they will respect and love the king.
             Mencius also talked to King Xuan about leadership in his kingdom. He asked the king what he would do if he put his family in the care of a friend and the friend allowed them to be cold and hungry
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