On the Intrinsic Connection between Confucian Theory of Human Nature and View on Style and Content

The studies of Confucian view on style and content in the aesthetic circle have almost all neglected its relation with the theory of human nature and hold that Confucians pursue equal half of style and content.However,these studies overlook the difference of views on style and content among Confucius,Mencius and Xunzi.Originally,Mencius held the good nature theory,so he emphasized content instead of style.He thought that content should be superior to style and we should save style with content.Xunzi insisted in the evil nature theory,so he stressed style in stead of content.The factors of both good nature theory and evil nature theory can be seen in Confucian thoughts.So he held the equal half of style and content.And according to him,content could be superior to style and it could also be polished with style.