Biography of Cui Shuyan

Author: Wu Liangkai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-12-01
Features: This book explores the outstanding achievements of Cui Shu during the Qianlong and Jiaqing periods of the Qing Dynasty in his academic career of skeptical criticism, verification, and seeking truth. It argues for the unique academic thought, political views, and rational reflections on history and nature that Cui Shu formed within a specific historical context, as well as his historical limitations. Additionally, it evaluates the influence of Cui Shu's thought and his historical status. The book reveals Cui Shu's spirit of skeptical criticism and verification, which does not necessarily demand adherence to traditional views or outright rejection. Instead, it emphasizes starting from facts, first distinguishing between truth and falsehood, and then commenting on their merits and demerits. It advocates for thorough investigation before belief, precise archaeological research, and meticulous logical analysis. It also highlights the need for public discourse based on objective truth rather than personal opinion. Furthermore, the book points out the contradictory nature of Cui Shu's approach, which required him to verify and correct errors while simultaneously upholding classical texts and Confucianism, relying on the Confucian classics as the ultimate standard for all matters and verifying everything against the Six Arts.