Mencius, a renowned Confucian philosopher, believed that human nature is inherently good. He argued that every person is born with the potential for goodness and that it is society's influence that can either nurture or corrupt this innate goodness.

According to Mencius, human nature is comprised of four innate virtues: compassion, shame, respect, and right and wrong. He believed that these virtues are present in every person from birth and are the foundation of moral character. He further argued that these virtues are what separate humans from animals and are essential for creating a harmonious society.

Mencius also believed that the heart, or mind, is the key to understanding human nature. He believed that the heart is the source of all moral impulses and that it is through cultivating the heart that one can become a virtuous person. He famously stated, "The heart of compassion is the germ of benevolence; the heart of shame, of dutifulness; the heart of respect, of righteousness; and the heart of right and wrong, of wisdom."

Furthermore, Mencius argued that external factors such as education and environment play a crucial role in shaping a person's character. He believed that a person's surroundings and the people they interact with can either help or hinder the development of their innate goodness. For example, a child raised in a loving and nurturing environment is more likely to grow up to be a kind and compassionate individual.

However, Mencius also acknowledged that while every person is born with the potential for goodness, not everyone will reach their full moral potential. He believed that this was due to external factors such as poverty, oppression, and lack of education, which can hinder a person's ability to cultivate their virtues.

In conclusion, Mencius' view on human nature is optimistic, emphasizing the inherent goodness of every individual. He believed that by cultivating the heart and nurturing the innate virtues, one can become a virtuous person and contribute to creating a harmonious society. However, he also recognized the impact of external factors on a person's character and the potential for individuals to fall short of their moral potential.