Mencius (c. 372-c. 289 BC)

Chinese philosopher and moralist in the tradition of orthodox Confucianism. He considered human nature innately good, although this goodness required cultivation, and based his conception of morality on this conviction.

Mencius was born in Shantung (Shandong) province, and founded a Confucian school. After 20 years' unsuccessful search for a ruler to put into practice his enlightened political programme, based on people's innate goodness, he retired. His teachings are preserved as the Book of Mengzi.