A Survey Of "the Debate Of Yi And Li" Of Pre-Qin Confucian Thought

Among the many themes of Pre-Qin Confucianism, the debate of Y\ (Righteousness) and Li (Benefit) occupies a central role. Confucius, Mencius, and Xun-zi all have written famous works on the subject. However, due to a lack of comprehensive understanding of these works, a misconception has arisen over time that "Confucians favor righteousness over benefit".This thesis takes a broad and all-encompassing view of the debate of Yi-Li, looking at the background of Confucian history, major currents of thought, and effects upon later scholars.It is the author's opinion that while Confucians did in fact stress the importance of Yi as the standard by which life values are discerned, the measured and proper pursuance of Li wa not disallowed. The true message of Confucianism is therefore the equal importance of Yi and Li. A proper understanding of this point is necessary in the application of Confucian thought in today's society.