The theory of "benevolent government" is the inheritance and development of Confucius' thought of "benevolence" Confucius' "benevolence" is an ethical concept with a wide meaning, and its most basic spirit is "love". Mencius started from Confucius' thought of "benevolence" and expanded it into a policy program including ideology, politics, economy and culture, which is "benevolence". The basic spirit of "benevolent government" is to have deep sympathy and love for the people.

Mencius' "benevolent government" advocated "people-oriented" politically. Mencius believes that for a country, "the people are the most important, the country is the second, and the monarch is the light." He also said: if the monarch is wrong, his subjects can persuade him, but if he refuses to listen many times, he can overthrow him. Mencius opposed the annexation war. He believes that war is too cruel and advocates "benevolent government" to unify the world. Economically, Mencius advocated that "people have permanent property", so that farmers can have certain land use rights and reduce taxes. Mencius' theory of "benevolent governance" is based on the theory of "good nature". Mencius said, "Everyone has compassion."

He believes that goodness is the unique nature of human beings and the fundamental symbol that distinguishes human beings from animals. He also emphasized the importance of educating people and the influence of objective environment on people.

Mencius believed that only by struggling in adversity can people inspire a strong enterprising spirit. People can only survive in misery, and the pursuit of happiness is bound to perish. Mencius attached great importance to personality cultivation. He believes that there is something more important in life than life, that is "justice". You can give up your life for "justice", which is what he said, "give up your life for justice."

Mencius' thought has far-reaching influence, and his "people-oriented thought" has become the theoretical basis for later reformers and revolutionaries.

His personality standard inspired people with lofty ideals in past dynasties to fight bravely for truth and justice without fear of power.