Duty or Justice: Once Again About the Term Yi 義 in Ancient Chinese Philosophy

Abstract

The article presents a philosophical analysis of the ancient Chinese term yi 義 (usual Russian translations are ‘justice’, ‘morality’, ‘duty’). After analysis of many examples from ancient Chinese
sources, the author concludes that it is incorrect to translate the term yi 義 as ‘justice’, because it is
not understood as a principle of distribution of benefits and harms, does not imply the idea of ‘equality’ and is not conceived as anti-altruistic reaction in response to a problematic situation in ‘the scope
of justice’. The translation of yi 義 as ‘morality’ is not accurate, as this term is used in non-moral
contexts or considered as only a part of morality. The last translation of yi 義 as ‘duty’ appears to be
correct, as yi 義 indicates the need for action not based on personal interests or affects.