Debate on Existence and Non-existence—A Rereading of the Ontological Thought of Wei-Jin Xuanxue

Author: Kang Zhongqian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-01
Features: The monograph is characterized by its rich and detailed historical materials. In summary, it is a significant work on the study of Wei-Jin Xuanxue in recent years, full of exploration and innovation. I believe the publication of this monograph will further promote academic research on the Wei-Jin period. This work focuses on the central issue of Wei-Jin Xuanxue, namely the theoretical problem of "Běnmò Wúyǒu" (Fundamental and Non-Existence), and attempts to reveal the basic thread of the internal logical development of the metaphysical thought of Wei-Jin Xuanxue. The book conducts an in-depth study of Wang Bi's philosophy of the preciousness of "Wú" (Non-Existence), particularly analyzing the category of "Wú" in Wang Bi's philosophy in detail, ultimately classifying it into three types: (1) Ontological meaning, generative meaning, and abstract meaning; (2) Functional meaning; (3) Realm meaning. This approach provides a deeper insight into the essential characteristics and internal contradictions of Wang Bi's Xuanxue, further advancing the study of Wang Bi's Xuanxue into greater depth and raising the level of research on it.