MOHIST Meaning and
Definition
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Mohist refers to a member or adherent of Mohism, a philosophical and ethical school of thought that emerged during the Warring States period in ancient China. Mohism was founded by the philosopher Mozi (often referred to as Master Mo or Mo Tzu) and was influential during the 4th and 3rd centuries BCE.
The Mohists advocated for a utilitarian view of ethics and emphasized impartiality, universal benevolence, and a focus on the collective welfare of society. They believed in the concept of "impartial care," which meant treating all individuals equally and promoting social harmony through moral conduct. Mohists aimed to create a utopian society by promoting the principles of love, frugality, and non-aggression.
Mohism also had a distinctive military aspect, arguing for the development and use of military technology to defend against aggressors. They believed in the importance of pragmatic strategies and efficient statecraft to establish peace and stability.
Despite having a strong influence during its time, the Mohist school gradually declined in popularity and was overtaken by Confucianism and Legalism. However, its recognition and contributions to the history of Chinese philosophy have made significant contributions to the understanding of ancient China's intellectual landscape. Today, the term "Mohist" is often used to describe individuals who adhere to the principles or teachings of Mohism or have a particular interest in the philosophy.
Common Misspellings for MOHIST
Etymology of MOHIST
The word "Mohist" comes from the Chinese term "Mo Jia" (墨家). The term is derived from the name of the ancient Chinese philosopher Mozi (also known as Mo Di or Master Mo) who founded the school of thought known as Mohism during the 5th century BCE. The term "Mohist" refers to the followers and proponents of Mohism, an ancient Chinese philosophical and ethical system.
