非乐 (Fēi Lè), translated as "opposition to extravagant music," is a Mohist critique of elaborate musical practices and other forms of indulgent entertainment. Mozi (墨子) argued that lavish music and cultural displays, particularly those associated with Confucian rituals, were wasteful and served no practical purpose for the betterment of society. According to Mohism, such practices diverted valuable resources and energy from more essential activities, such as improving the livelihoods of the people or strengthening the state.
For Mozi, Fēi Lè is not a condemnation of music itself but a rejection of its extravagance when it fails to serve utilitarian purposes. Music and art are acceptable only if they directly contribute to societal welfare, such as by fostering moral behavior or motivating productive labor.
Fēi Lè emerged during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), a time when Confucian rituals, including elaborate music and ceremonies, played a significant role in asserting political legitimacy and social hierarchy. Mozi viewed these rituals as excessive and argued that they primarily benefited the elite while neglecting the needs of ordinary people.
The critique of music reflects Mohism’s broader utilitarian ethos, which prioritizes practical benefits over cultural or aesthetic pursuits. Mozi believed that rulers should focus on governance and resource allocation for the public good rather than engaging in elaborate cultural displays.
In contemporary China, Fēi Lè finds echoes in the CCP’s periodic critiques of extravagance and its emphasis on pragmatic governance. While the CCP promotes arts and culture as part of its soft power and national identity, it has also condemned wasteful spending on luxury events and performances, aligning with Mohist ideals of resource efficiency.
Key CCP Applications:
Anti-Extravagance Campaigns:
The CCP’s restrictions on lavish banquets, entertainment, and excessive celebrations reflect Fēi Lè’s critique of wasteful indulgence.
Promotion of Practical Arts:
Arts and culture are supported when they align with state objectives, such as fostering patriotism or promoting moral values.
Key Divergences:
Cultural Renaissance:
The CCP invests heavily in cultural and artistic initiatives, recognizing their role in soft power and national pride, which contrasts with Mohist austerity.
1. Mozi’s Critique of Confucian Rituals:
Mozi opposed grand musical performances at court ceremonies, arguing that the resources could be better used for public welfare, such as providing food and shelter for the poor.
2. Modern Frugality Policies:
The CCP’s campaigns to curb luxury spending among officials echo Fēi Lè, emphasizing practicality and societal benefit over personal indulgence.
3. Arts for National Development:
While the CCP promotes cultural initiatives, such as films and exhibitions, these efforts are often tied to state goals like fostering social cohesion or advancing China’s global image, reflecting a modified application of Fēi Lè.
4. Mass Cultural Participation:
Encouraging accessible cultural activities, such as public concerts or traditional festivals, aligns with Mohist ideas of making cultural benefits available to all rather than concentrating them among elites.
Art as Necessity vs. Luxury:
Americans may view arts and music as intrinsic to cultural and personal development. Mohism treats them as secondary to practical needs, which may appear overly utilitarian.
Critique of Extravagance:
The rejection of elaborate cultural displays may be misunderstood as anti-artistic, whereas Mohism advocates for aligning art with societal benefit.
Cultural Hierarchy:
The Mohist critique of Confucian music rituals may seem like a rejection of heritage, but it reflects a pragmatic concern for equality and resource allocation.
Fēi Lè reflects an enduring Chinese emphasis on practicality and collective welfare over individual or elite indulgence. While modern China embraces arts and culture as vital aspects of its national identity, the principle of avoiding extravagance remains relevant in governance and public policy. By ensuring that resources serve practical and inclusive purposes, Fēi Lè continues to inform discussions about the role of culture in a harmonious society.