论孟子的天下观

A Study of Mencius' View on Tianxia

孟子对于"天下"以及"王天下"有自己独特的看法。首先,孟子认为天下"定于一"并非是政权上的统一天下,而是具有以仁、义为代表的人文价值上的认同。其次,"王天下"最根本的标志是"来归"而非"往征",若能实行仁政,即便是小国也可以"百里而王"。最后,对于社会来说,达到王道之治是理想的状态;对于个人来说,"王天下"之位则并非最高追求。

This paper discusses Mencius＇ view on Tianxia and the world order. First, Mencius believes that the world will settle on one, instead of unification, one means recognition of the humane values such as Ren （benevolence） and Yi （righteousness）. Second,the essence of the world order is that the states can actualize benevolent politics rather than expanding territory by military force. That is why even a small state can be considered as a good example of a caring government and cannot be defeated. Finally, in respect of the society, a world in order is the ideal case. But for an individual, to be a political leader is not a necessary choice.