Sayings of Mencius

A just cause enjoys abundant support ; an unjust cause finds little help. (4.1)

The people are the most important, the state regime comes next, and the sovereign comes last. (14.14)

Life is what I desire and so is righteousness. If I could not keep both of them, I would give up life and choose righteousness. (11.10)

All men have the heart of mercy. (3.6)

Respect your own elders and extend such respect to those of others ; cherish your own young and extend such cherishment to those of others. (1.7)

The best way to foster goodness at heart is to reduce personal desires. (14.35)

A man must have humiliated himself before others can humiliate him. A country must have defeated itself before others can defeat it. (7.8)

A wise head wants a chance ; a good spade awaits the season. (3.1)