◎ Mencius
In the Warring States Period (475 BC-221 BC), each state wanted to annex the other and become overlord. With its powerful strength, the State Qi was more ambitious. During his rein, King Xuan of Qi was eager to expand his territory by launching wars to build up his authority and become overlord.
Advocating a benevolent policy of no wars, Mencius paid a visit to King Xuan, and said, “I have heard that Your Majesty wanted to conquer the world through wars. This will absolutely not work. If you want the people around the world to follow you, and realize your wish to unify the world, you must first rule your own state well so that officials, farmers, merchants and even tourists are willing to come and be a part of your territory where common people can live a happy life. If Your Majesty wants to conquer other states by force, it is just like climbing a tree to catch fish—you will exert effort but gain nothing, and never fulfill your original purpose. If you use such action to realize your wishes, then you will invite catastrophe.”
King Xuan, however, turned a deaf ear to Mencius’ advice, and attacked the other states. In the end, he did not realize his wish to unify the world.
