孟子义利之辨的三个层面

Mencius'Three Dimensions of the Distinction between Righteousness and Profit

孟子的义利之辨因涉及社会秩序的建构、制度的正义性以及生命意义的贞定等问题,具有多个层面和丰富的内涵。第一个层面涉及政治秩序的建构,义先于利,只有建构公正、正义的政治秩序以及人与人之间的良善关系,才能更好地追求利。第二个层面涉及制度的正义性以及利益的分配问题,孟子主张以义为利,认为政治权力应当首先追求义而不应是利,但其所谓义实际又落实为民众的利,认为符合于民众的利才是真正的义。第三个层面则涉及生命意义的问题,在终极的意义上,孟子认为义高于利,当义与利发生冲突时,人应该杀身成仁、舍生取义,如此方可确立生命的意义,显示人之为人的高贵与尊严。

Mencius'discourse on dialectics of righteousness(yi,义)and profit(li,利)involves various aspects and embodies rich connotations.Regarding the disorderly social reality,Mencius advocates prioritizing righteousness over profit,opposing the pursuit of profit at the expense of righteousness.Regarding the establishment of a society with"Dao"(道),Mencius further proposes that righteousness should be considered as profit.He believes that political authority should first seek righteousness rather than profit,which ultimately translates into the realization of the people's"profit",believing that righteousness resides in what benefits the people.Lastly,regarding the ultimate sense of ethical discourse,Mencius believes righteousness is superior to profit.In instances of a conflict between the two,one should be willing to sacrifice oneself for righteousness,showing the noble and dignified nature of being human.