The extension of knowledge is not what later scholars understand as enriching and widening knowledge. (1) It is simply extending one's innate knowledge of the good to the utmost. This innate knowledge of the good is what Mencius meant when he said, "The sense of right and wrong is common to all men." (2) The sense of right and wrong requires no deliberation to know, nor does it depend on learning to function. (3) This is why it is called innate knowledge. It is my nature endowed by Heaven, the original substance of my mind, naturally intelligent, shining, clear, and understanding.

(Wang Yangming)