The Mohist Hill distinguishes between inner and outer disciples. Becoming inner disciples means probing the de…
The Mohist Hill distinguishes between inner and outer disciples. Becoming inner disciples means probing the depths, planning for millennia, while being outer disciples means specializing in crafting tools for the benefit of all people.
To many, "Is the distinction based on innate talent? Inner disciples for great talent, outer disciples for lesser talent." I think differently.
An outer disciple surnamed Mo, in a contest of mechanical devices against several elders, won three consecutive rounds undefeated, earning everyone's admiration.
His mechanisms emphasized practicality but were wild in form, originally looked down upon by the inner disciples.
After this contest, his fame soared. This rough, unrefined style actually became fashionable for a time, with disciples competing to take pride in the crude appearance of their mechanisms.
To this day, the old story has gradually faded, but this style alone has not fallen out of use.