"Human nature is evil, and goodness is caused by intentional activity"

Xun Kuang, also called Xunzi, was a Chinese Confucian theorist who lived during the Warring States period. His quote, "Humanity is evil, and goodness is triggered by intentional activity", is a basic expression of his views on humanity and morality, which contrast dramatically with those of another prominent Confucian thinker, Mencius, who believed humanity was inherently good.

When Xunzi declares that "human nature is wicked", he doesn't mean that humans are inherently harmful or intent on causing damage. Rather, he recommends that people are naturally inclined to self-indulgent desires and instincts, such as greed, envy, and hostility. These instincts can result in disorder and dispute if left unchecked. In Xunzi's view, these fundamental propensities need to be managed and changed through education, discipline, and social norms.

The second part of the quote, "goodness is caused by intentional activity", emphasizes the role of purposeful effort and societal structures in cultivating virtue. According to Xunzi, goodness does not develop spontaneously but need to be attained through conscious effort. This includes the application of routine, discovering, and ethical education, which assist shape people' character and transport their tendencies towards pro-social behaviors. Thus, the growing of virtue is an active, intentional process, needing dedication and adherence to social norms and rituals.

Xunzi's approach underscores the value of external impacts-- such as law, education, and cultural rituals-- in forming moral character. This perspective positions a strong focus on the environment and governance as essential tools for achieving social order and harmony. Unlike Mencius, who relied on the intrinsic goodness of people to direct them naturally towards ethical actions, Xunzi believed that without intentional intervention and assistance, human instincts would cause mayhem.

In summary, Xunzi's perspective challenges the concept of intrinsic human goodness and stresses the significance of intentional activity and social influence in cultivating ethical character. This outlook encourages a structured approach to education and governance as means to cultivate and keep ethical societies.