Doubting mozi : mohist ethics scrutinised

• Main Author: Chong, Jun Jie Kenji
• Other Authors: Winnie Sung
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: DRNTU::Humanities
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/73543
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Even though Mohist ethics fell out of favour and were replaced by other schools of thought, the Mohists provided a unique perspective on how the disorders of the world could be solved. Using the concept of jian ai, or Universal Care, they sought to rid the evils of the world through reciprocal care for one another, even if individuals had no particular relations with one another. However, even though the Mohists provided an ethical doctrine to follow, there still remains an ambiguity in how this doctrine can translate into action. This essay seeks to examine modern attempts by Loy Hui-chieh and Back Youngsun to codify and clarify these doctrines and determine whether these formulations are sufficiently robust. I will first introduce the various formulations of jian ai, followed by a comparison between the two and the limitations within each formulation. I will then present a series of challenges to these formulations to see if they are able to provide a satisfactory reply to these challenges. I will take that stand that these formulations are unable to fully accommodate interpersonal doubt, contrary to Chris Fraser’s objection to the problem.