Mohism

The basis of Mohism is universal love, which is similar to the belief of Western Christianity. It also has strong utilitarian spirit. Although it has long been forgotten in Chinese history, Mohism and Confucianism were the two major philosophies, despite having opposing ideas.

Mo Tzu, the representative leader of Mohism, was born before the death of Confucius and died before the birth of Mencius. He used to be the chief officer of the state of Sung and had about 300 followers. The main belief of Mohism is that universal love will benefit the people at every level. Mo Tzu advocated thrift, actively condemned war, and attacked music and rituals. He thought that it was too expensive to make musical instruments or to hold special events. While the kings, dukes, and officials were enjoying the music, the people were starving because of the expense of the musical instruments.

From his utilitarian arguments, the attacks against war, and the tone of his writing, we can know that Mo Tzu represented the working class, or even the slaves at that time. Even though Confucianism advocated the equality of all class, it tended towards the upper level (aristocracy) in a sense.

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