Hierarchy of Life — A Series of Doctoral Dissertations on Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

Author: Liu Dongchao
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-10-01
Features: The theory of life stages is an important component of the newly constructed system of New Logic by Mr. Feng in the 1930s and 1940s, and one of the few systematic philosophical doctrines of life in 20th-century Chinese philosophy. This theory divides human life existence from low to high into four levels: natural stage, utilitarian stage, moral stage, and heavenly stage. People in the natural stage act according to instinct or habit, those in the utilitarian stage pursue personal gain, those in the moral stage follow moral rules, and those in the heavenly stage "identify themselves with the great all." The differences in stages are caused by varying degrees of comprehension, with those in the heavenly stage possessing the greatest comprehension. Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism are the three pillars of traditional Chinese culture, with a long history, rich content, and profound influence. They have played an extremely important role in shaping and developing the common psychology, emotions, and strong cohesion of the Chinese nation. They have been the spiritual weapons that enabled our nation to overcome all difficulties, navigate countless obstacles, and remain invincible for thousands of years. Today, they still demonstrate their powerful vitality and will radiate even greater brilliance in the coming new century.
Since the Third Plenary Session of the Eleventh Central Committee of the Communist Party of China in 1978 established the reform and opening-up policy, research on Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism in our country has also made great progress. Many doctoral programs have been established across the country, enabling the cultivation of young research talents to proceed in a planned and organized manner. A steady stream of doctoral graduates is thriving, forming a strong new force in the study of traditional Chinese culture and becoming the future academic leaders in relevant disciplines. Some of their doctoral dissertations have gained attention and produced positive impacts among peer scholars both domestically and internationally. However, due to various reasons, publishing academic works remains extremely difficult, especially for young and middle-aged scholars. As a result, a considerable number of doctoral dissertations still fail to be published in a timely manner. Failing to resolve this issue promptly is not only detrimental to the growth of young and middle-aged scholars but also the promotion of traditional Chinese culture and the advancement of academic exchange. We have long been determined to solve this problem but have been hindered by various reasons and have yet to succeed. Recently, we discussed this matter with the Hong Kong Guo Xuan College, and we were delighted to receive their generous agreement to donate funds to support the publication of the "Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism Doctoral Dissertations Series." This will be a great event in academia and will inevitably have a profound impact if sustained in the long run.
This book first examines Feng Youlan's theory of life stages from two levels: textual authenticity and theoretical implications. It organizes and analyzes the knowledge resources, theoretical forms, and development of this doctrine, pointing out some contradictions and errors within it while also revealing many profound and insightful perspectives. Additionally, it elaborates on the various theoretical possibilities embedded in the doctrine.
Next, the book compares the theory of life stages with Kierkegaard's three lifestyles, thoroughly examining their similarities and differences, and then integrates and synthesizes their ideas. Finally, based on these two theories, the book offers an evaluation and expansion of the theory of life stages, laying certain foundations for a new theory of life levels.