-372 – -289
Mencius (Mengzi, c. 372–289 BCE) was a Confucian philosopher in the Warring States period of China, widely regarded as the second most important figure in classical Confucianism after Confucius himself. He is best known for his doctrine that human nature is inherently good and his political philosophy emphasizing benevolent governance and the moral responsibilities of rulers.
Articulated the doctrine that human nature (xing) is inherently good, grounded in four innate moral sprouts
Developed a theory of benevolent governance (ren zheng) holding rulers accountable to the welfare of the people
Argued for the legitimacy of overthrowing tyrannical rulers, influencing East Asian political thought
Systematized and defended Confucian ethics against rivals such as Mohism and Yangism
The Mengzi became one of the Four Books, a canonical text in Neo-Confucian education