Ten Doctrines
Mozi's ten claims, as affirmations you can practice today.
The Ten Doctrines are not a creed. They are ten commitments you can practise and test.
Each is weighed by the three tests: did the ancients do it, have people seen it work, and does it benefit people when applied today. You do not have to believe anything first; you try it and look at the results.
- 01Impartial Carejian'ai兼爱We care about every person's welfare, without partiality.
- 02Against Aggressionfeigong非攻We refuse to profit by aggression, and we help others defend themselves.
- 03Promoting the Worthyshangxian尚贤Responsibility goes to the able and upright, regardless of origin.
- 04Shared Standardsshangtong尚同We reach shared standards through open deliberation and report reality upward honestly.
- 05Moderation in Usejieyong节用Enough is enough; what we save, we put to the common good.
- 06Simplicity in Burialjiezang节葬We bury simply and honor the dead by caring for the living.
- 07The Standard Abovetianzhi天志There is an objective standard of right, above any ruler's whim.
- 08Acting as if Watchedminggui明鬼We act as if watched, especially when no one is.
- 09Against Extravagancefeiyue非乐While people lack food, clothing, and rest, we oppose extravagant display.
- 10Against Fatalismfeiming非命Fate is no excuse; effort decides outcomes.