Beijing University Classics of Philosophy (Selected Works of Feng Youlan)

Author: Chen Lai, Editor-in-Chief; Feng Youlan, Author
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: This book reviews the achievements of these 20th-century philosophical classics, with two points being particularly prominent: , the philosophical research in modern Chinese philosophy is invariably based on the background of Western philosophy and its historical development. This is not to mention scholars who studied abroad in Europe and America; even those with strong traditional characteristics, such as Liang Shuming and Xiong Shili, were profoundly influenced by Western philosophical concepts. Western philosophy is an exquisite representation of rational analysis and construction in human wisdom. Although the form of Western philosophy is special, many of its discussions on issues are universal. While the discourse of Western philosophy may not be the fundamental stipulation of what constitutes philosophy, it has become the foundation of the modern philosophical discipline. Studying Western philosophy can provide an important and universally meaningful method for researching other philosophies. In-depth understanding of Western philosophy and other philosophies in the world will promote our deeper understanding of our own philosophical traditions. Second, the creation of philosophical systems in modern China must establish a positive connection with the resources of traditional Chinese philosophy. As Chen Yinke said, "I suspect that if China is able to faithfully introduce the thoughts of North America or Eastern Europe in the future, the result will be equivalent to the Yogacara studies of Xuanzang," which could neither hold a high position in the history of our thought nor ultimately persist. Those who could truly achieve systematic philosophical thought and make original contributions must, on one hand, absorb and introduce external doctrines, while on the other hand, not forget the position of their own nation. These two attitudes, which are both contrasting and complementary, are the true spirit of Taoism, the old path of Neo-Confucianism, and what two thousand years of intellectual contact between our nation and other nations has revealed. Xiong Shili's New Yi Studies, Liang Shuming's New Confucianism, Feng Youlan's New Rationalism, He Lin's New Mindology, Jin Yulan's New Realism, and Zhang Dainian's New Materialism all consciously connect to classical Chinese philosophy to varying degrees and integrate with the practical aspects of Chinese cultural traditions. All the Chinese philosophers who achieved significant accomplishments in constructing philosophical systems in the 20th century were the same. The selection of this series emphasizes the philosophical thoughts of these scholars, giving equal weight to masterpieces and notable works. The selection aims to differ from existing collections, reflecting the unique editorial perspective and creative arrangement, thereby highlighting the contributions of these scholars to the creation and research of 20th-century Chinese philosophy while also offering the series' unique interpretations.