The article discusses the perspectives of Neo-Confucian philosopher Zhu Xi on virtues, specifically focusing on humaneness (ren) as a foundational virtue. Zhu Xi suggests that just as spring is vital for the other seasons, humaneness is crucial for understanding other virtues such as righteousness, ritual respect, and wisdom. This comparison highlights the interconnectedness of virtues, proposing that true benevolence is only possible when it arises from a genuine respect for others. Through this lens, Zhu Xi reveals the complexity and unity of the Confucian ethical system.
The concept of humaneness or ren (仁) is central to Neo-Confucian philosophy, suggesting that it encapsulates and supports other virtues like righteousness, ritual respect, and wisdom.
Zhu Xi draws an analogy between the unity of virtues and the seasonal cycle, arguing that just as all seasons depend on spring for life, all virtues depend on humaneness.
Collection
[
|
...
]