Nature and Metaphysical Principles

Author: Mou Zongsan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: Mou Zongsan wrote Philosophy of History up to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, after which he no longer discussed politics and instead turned to academia. The main stages of academia in Chinese history are three: first, the Neo-Daoist metaphysics of the Wei and Jin periods; second, Buddhism during the Northern and Southern Dynasties and the Sui and Tang dynasties; and third, Neo-Confucianism during the Song and Ming dynasties. The Neo-Daoist metaphysics of the Wei and Jin periods connects to the theory of human nature from the pre-Qin and Han dynasties. Therefore, the early discussions of this stage focus on talent and nature, which is a study of life. Through this, the true life and true temperament that are developed can deeply and extensively promote Daoist metaphysics. The promotion of Daoist metaphysics is precisely the best bridge connecting to Buddhism, which is the topic discussed in the later stages. Hence, the title of this book is Talent and Metaphysics.
As one of the most outstanding figures in New Confucianism, Mou Zongsan's superiority over his peers lies not only in his profound understanding of Confucian doctrine but also in his overall grasp of the main stream of traditional Chinese academia. Therefore, while deeply analyzing the internal logic of Neo-Daoist metaphysics, this book also remains rooted in the harmonious integration of the doctrines of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism.