Ming Dynasty Wang Xue Studies -- A Series of Doctoral Dissertations on Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

Author: Bao Shibin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: Wang Xue (Neo-Confucianism of Wang Yangming) is a very interesting doctrine in the history of Chinese thought. Since its inception, it has been highly controversial, with many attacking it but few abandoning their support, even to this day. It is interesting because Wang Xue was originally developed to solve problems for rulers but never gained official recognition, much like the pain Lu Xun described as "not being allowed to be a mere flatterer." The modern and contemporary fate of Wang Xue is even more peculiar. On one hand, figures like Tan Sitong and Guo Moruo drew from Wang Xue to emphasize individual will, disdain for authority, and the spirit of breaking free from constraints in their revolutionary thought. On the other hand, Chiang Kai-shek used the principles of Yangming's Mind School to justify his autocratic rule. From both historical and contemporary perspectives, certain aspects of Wang Xue's philosophy have permeated the thinking of the Chinese people. For example, the slogan "struggle against selfish thoughts at the slightest moment" during the Cultural Revolution is a modern reinterpretation of the contentious cultivation practices debated in Wang Xue. Given the significance of such an interesting doctrine, it is necessary to conduct in-depth research on it.