A Study on the Ontology Philosophy of Xiong Shili -- A Series of Doctoral Dissertations on Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism

Author: Guo Meihua
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-11-01
Features: Xiong Shili's philosophy, as an "ontology," aims at "seeking truth to perceive the ultimate reality." Xiong's pursuit of the true essence of existence is intertwined with the tension between the subjective and objective, individuality and universality of human existence. Overall, Xiong's early philosophy shows a development from focusing on the individual self to leaning toward universal entities. In his mature philosophical thought, Xiong demonstrates a return to the adherence of universal entities. In his later philosophy, Xiong exhibits a tendency to return the transcendent universal entities to the diversified and individualized reality, placing greater emphasis on the individual manifestation and realization of universal entities. Centered around the "New Consciousness-Only Theory," the true essence of existence that Xiong posits is both the inherent power within the subject and the self-evident ground of the world itself. It is both the subjective, individual ground of existence for each individual and the objective, universal ground of existence for all subjects and even all things in the universe. In further specifying the essence of existence, Xiong elevates it to a transcendent and isolated entity detached from real life, revealing a universalist and objectivist stance.