The Zhang Yuanbian is Practical Philosophy

Abstract

The scholarly emphasis within the domain of Chinese intellectual history has progressively transitioned from an examination of Wang Yangming's philosophy to an exploration of post-Yangming school studies, particularly during the Ming and Qing dynasties. This shift has led to a burgeoning interest in the philosophical contributions of figures such as Nie Shuangjiang, Luo Nianan, Wang Ji, Wang Gen, and Li Zhi, with new research continually emerging. However, there remains a significant academic void concerning other pivotal representatives of the post-Yangming school, including Zhang Yuanbian, whose work has been largely overlooked. Zhang Yuanbian's practical philosophy, encapsulated within his philosophy, is a critical component of his intellectual framework. An investigation reveals that Zhang Yuanbian's practical philosophy is composed of various interrelated concepts, each with its own logical genesis. This paper posits that the application of certain technical methodologies can elucidate the discourse and intertextual references within his work, thereby revealing the comprehensive structure and developmental trajectories of his ideas. This approach integrates the cultural heritage and individual insights inherent in the understanding of Zhang Yuanbian's philosophy. Consequently, Zhang Yuanbian's practical philosophy is recognized as a synthesis of Confucian practice tradition and Wang Yangming's doctrine of the "unity of knowledge and action." and it plays a unique role and possesses unique historical significance in the history of thought. This study not only bridges the gap in the academic discourse on Zhang Yuanbian's thought but also offers a novel perspective and theoretical insights into the evolution of psychological studies and the contemporary interpretation of ancient Chinese philosophy.