Yang Zhu - Icon Profile | Alexandria
Yang Zhu (楊朱, ca. 440-360 BCE) stands as one of ancient China's most enigmatic and controversial philosophers, whose radical individualism and hedonistic philosophy earned him both fierce criticism and lasting influence in Chinese intellectual history. Often mischaracterized as merely a proponent of self-interest, Yang Zhu's sophisticated ethical framework challenged the prevailing Confucian and Mohist doctrines of his time, advocating for the preservation of one's natural vitality and authentic self-expression.
The earliest substantial reference to Yang Zhu appears in Mencius (孟子), where the Confucian philosopher denounces him for advocating "everyone for himself" (為我), supposedly refusing to sacrifice a single hair to benefit the world. This period, marked by the tumultuous Warring States era (475-221 BCE), saw intense philosophical debates about human nature, governance, and individual worth, with Yang Zhu's ideas representing a striking departure from conventional wisdom.
Yang's philosophy, primarily preserved through fragmentary references and the "Yangist" chapters of the Liezi (列子), emphasized the preservation of one's natural state (性) and life force (生). Unlike the prevailing altruistic ideals of his time, Yang argued that the highest ethical imperative was maintaining one's authentic self, viewing social obligations and moral constraints as artificial impositions that damaged human nature. His teachings on self-preservation and authentic living influenced later Daoist thought, though his explicit individualism stands in contrast to classical Daoist concepts of wu-wei (non-action).
The legacy of Yang Zhu continues to intrigue scholars and philosophers, particularly in contemporary discussions about individualism, authenticity, and the tension between personal and social obligations. His critique of sacrificing individual well-being for abstract social ideals resonates with modern debates about work-life balance and personal autonomy. Though often overshadowed by other ancient Chinese philosophers, Yang Zhu's radical vision raises enduring questions about the relationship between individual fulfillment and social responsibility – questions that remain relevant in today's increasingly interconnected yet individualistic world.
The true extent of Yang Zhu's influence and the full scope of his philosophical system remain subjects of scholarly debate, inviting continued exploration of how his ancient wisdom might illuminate contemporary challenges in balancing personal authenticity with social responsibility.