Problem: Asian Philosophy Paper
The example of the child falling down the well (2A6, pp. 129-130) is a famous passage in The Mengzi that suggest one of Mencius' central ideas, i.e., human nature is good. Even more precisely, he says that the child-well example shows that, "if one is without the heart of compassion, one is not human" (129).
What do you think about the thought-experiment? Does it persuade you that we are naturally good? Do you think, as Mencius does, that we would all "have a feeling of alarm and compassion" upon seeing a child fall down a well? In short, respond to Mencius' thought-experiment with your own opinions/reactions--but give reasons for your opinions.
Do not feel compelled to use the vocabulary in 2A6 (e.g., "sprouts" and "hearts" etc), though do so if you would like. We will go over these in class; you need only respond to the thought-experiment and what it tells us about human nature.
The response must include a reference list. Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.