非攻 (Fēi Gōng), translated as "opposition to aggression" or "anti-war," is a core principle of Mohism advocating for the rejection of offensive wars and unnecessary military conflicts. Mozi (墨子) believed that aggressive wars cause immense suffering, drain resources, and disrupt societal harmony. Instead, he argued that wars should only be fought in defense of the people or the state and that rulers should prioritize peace and cooperation.
Unlike Confucianism, which emphasizes the moral righteousness of wars sanctioned by the "Mandate of Heaven" (天命, Tiānmìng), Mohism categorically opposes offensive warfare, asserting that it benefits only the aggressors while harming the innocent. Fēi Gōng thus reflects a deep concern for justice and the collective good.
Fēi Gōng emerged during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), an era marked by constant warfare between rival states. Mozi observed the destruction caused by these conflicts and argued that offensive wars were driven by greed and ambition rather than necessity. He proposed that states adopt defensive strategies and cultivate mutual respect to avoid needless bloodshed.
Mohist engineers even developed innovative fortifications and siege defense tactics, showcasing their commitment to defensive rather than offensive military practices.
While Fēi Gōng is an ideal that resonates with traditional Chinese values of harmony (和谐, Héxié), it has not been fully adopted as a guiding principle in governance. The CCP emphasizes national defense and territorial integrity, often framing military actions as protective rather than aggressive.
Key CCP Applications:
"Peaceful Development" Doctrine:
The CCP frequently emphasizes its commitment to non-aggression in foreign policy, reflecting aspects of Fēi Gōng in its rhetoric.
Territorial Defense:
The CCP frames its military actions, such as safeguarding sovereignty in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea, as defensive rather than offensive.
Key Divergences:
Geopolitical Realities:
While Fēi Gōng rejects all offensive wars, the CCP prioritizes national interests and strategic security, which may involve assertive actions that could be perceived as aggression by others.
1. Advocacy for Defensive Wars:
Mozi argued that wars should only be waged to defend one’s state or protect the innocent, laying the groundwork for the Mohist emphasis on defensive strategies.
2. Modern China's Military Strategy:
China’s emphasis on a "defense-oriented" military posture aligns with Fēi Gōng, focusing on deterring threats rather than initiating conflicts.
3. International Diplomacy:
China’s call for peaceful resolution of disputes, such as in its Belt and Road Initiative, reflects a commitment to avoiding unnecessary conflict, though this principle is balanced by strategic interests.
4. Engineering Contributions:
In ancient times, Mohists were renowned for their fortifications and defensive technology, emphasizing the principle of Fēi Gōng by prioritizing protection over conquest.
Defensive vs. Aggressive Actions:
Americans may interpret certain Chinese actions, such as island-building in the South China Sea, as aggressive, while the CCP frames these actions as protective measures consistent with territorial integrity.
Moral Rationale:
Westerners might expect anti-war principles to be rooted in human rights or ethical universalism. Mohist Fēi Gōng is pragmatic, emphasizing the reduction of harm and suffering for all parties involved.
Idealism vs. Realpolitik:
Americans might see Fēi Gōng as an unachievable ideal, overlooking its practical emphasis on reducing unnecessary conflict and its historical relevance.
Fēi Gōng reflects an enduring Chinese preference for harmony and stability, both domestically and internationally. While modern China’s approach to military and diplomatic policy incorporates elements of Fēi Gōng, these principles are adapted to meet the demands of contemporary geopolitics. The emphasis on avoiding unnecessary wars and focusing on defense underscores China’s long-standing commitment to maintaining peace and sovereignty.