Zhu Xi and Confucian Environmental Ethics

Abstract

This essay presents the basic ideas of Zhu Xi’s environmental thinking as well as a Confucian environmental ethics. Zhu Xi as a Confucian propose a holistic idea of the Universe with the principle of ren, which means that human being and non-human beings are endowed ontologically the same Principle or Mind of the Heaven and Earth and everything has a more or less instinct for flourishing forever. We are inter-dependent and inter-related in various ways and should live together integrating peacefully and harmoniously as one whole family with a principle of gradation of benevolence. In order to tackle the grave situation of global warming facing us, Zhu Xi’s philosophy advises us to scale back human population, and in line with the principle of prudence, following our natural position within the ecological circle lead a mixed diet and simple life. Zhu Xi and Confucians would takes a more positive role than just a steward of the Universe in seeing human being as a nurturer helping to relieve the suffering and flourishing of all species.