The philosopher associated with the view that human nature is inherently selfish and requires social control is

The philosopher associated with the view that human nature is inherently selfish and requires social control is

• A. Xun-zi
• B. Confucius
• C. Laozi
• D. Mencius

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that human nature is inherently selfish and requires social control. Xunzi argues this view most clearly: he contends that people are born with desire and self-interest that, left unchecked, lead to conflict. To achieve a stable and virtuous society, education, ritual (li), and strong governance are necessary to restrain these impulses and cultivate proper conduct. In his view, it’s the structures of society—cultivation, norms, laws—that transform people from self-centered beings into morally responsible ones. This contrasts with Mencius, who argues human nature is inherently good and can flourish with the right nurture. Confucius emphasizes the importance of education and moral cultivation as well, but doesn’t hinge on a blanket claim that human nature is fundamentally selfish. Laozi, on the other hand, centers on aligning with the Dao and living in harmony with natural order rather than advocating social control to correct inherent selfishness.

The idea being tested is that human nature is inherently selfish and requires social control. Xunzi argues this view most clearly: he contends that people are born with desire and self-interest that, left unchecked, lead to conflict. To achieve a stable and virtuous society, education, ritual (li), and strong governance are necessary to restrain these impulses and cultivate proper conduct. In his view, it’s the structures of society—cultivation, norms, laws—that transform people from self-centered beings into morally responsible ones.

This contrasts with Mencius, who argues human nature is inherently good and can flourish with the right nurture. Confucius emphasizes the importance of education and moral cultivation as well, but doesn’t hinge on a blanket claim that human nature is fundamentally selfish. Laozi, on the other hand, centers on aligning with the Dao and living in harmony with natural order rather than advocating social control to correct inherent selfishness.