Gate of the Profound Mystery: A Critique of Feminist Vitalism

Author: Cai Xinle, Li Weiguo, et al.
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: Speech is the draft of thought, and written expression is a preliminary adjustment or organization of the draft. The saying "words are limited while meaning is boundless" refers to the ontological meaning of "meaning" being inextricably linked with existence itself and being incapable of being fully exhausted. In this way, speech deviates from thought, making it impossible for it to extend to a certain degree of "meaning." Due to the pull of the two major tendencies of textification—rationalization of thought and grammaticalization of thought—written expression tends to emphasize rigorous and rigid logical thinking rather than lively and vibrant poetic expression, and leans toward the historical determinacy of grammar in a specific language rather than the unconditional unfolding or revelation of thought toward "meaning." Only those who hope for thought will consider "obscurism" unacceptable in the academic field or in academic research. We, however, believe that "obscurism" is essential for academic inquiry; moreover, when academic research consistently contradicts conventional wisdom, "obscurism" should always serve as a reaction against the conventional givenness. It can also be regarded as an admirable and positive term in the academic field.