"On the Original Theory of Chinese Philosophy (Introduction Part)"

Author: Tang Junyi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-10-01
Features: The Chinese philosophical tradition is profound, with rich and diverse doctrines from various schools, yet its thoughts have evolved and are not born out of thin air. Understanding their origins is key to knowing their direction, making it necessary to trace back to the roots. This book vertically focuses on discussions of Chinese philosophical issues centered around a core concept, while horizontally broadly encompasses the doctrines of different schools, distinguishing their aspects, categories, and levels. It includes essays such as "On the Principle," "On the Original Mind," "On the Original Name," "On the Original Debate," "On Original Speech and Silence," "On Original Debate and Silence," "On Original Moral Cultivation and Inquiry into Things," "On the Dao," "On the Original Taiji," and "On the Original Fate," all of which serve as entrances to the realm of Chinese philosophical doctrines. Moving further, it specifically discusses the core concept of Chinese philosophy—"nature." Since "fate" is inseparable from "nature," and the ideal that humans face the heavens, earth, and all things, giving rise to the vast value world of Chinese philosophy, must stem from the meaning of "nature." The writing style of this book is unique. Mr. Tang called it "discussing philosophy through the history of philosophy." Mr. Tang opposed unfounded speculation, arguing that the words of the ancients should not be grasped in isolation, as this would inevitably lead to inexplicable conflicts. Instead, one should analyze their intended meanings, categorize them, and place them in their proper context. Following this, Mr. Tang systematically presented the various theories of Chinese ancient philosophers on human nature, seeking their original meaning and universal, eternal values, in an attempt to integrate them all into a broader philosophical world. This book uses the major concepts of Chinese philosophy as threads, demonstrating Mr. Tang's mature and comprehensive thinking on philosophical issues.