이돈화의 인간관 연구 − 인륜과 인격의 융합, 그리고 새로운 인간형(인간격) −

Abstract

In the midst of the tumultuous period experienced in colonial Joseon society, Yi Tonhwa embarked on a profound journey to redefine the principles governing human ethics and relationships, grounded in the Confucian tradition of relational ethics(人倫). Contrary to dismissing the Confucian philosophy as antiquated, he sought to rejuvenate it by intricately intertwining it with the modern concepts of person(人格) embraced by contemporary Japanese thinkers. This study delves deeply into this intellectual endeavor, undertaking a meticulous comparative analysis with the theories of those Japanese contemporaries who profoundly influenced him. Through this lens, we aim to elucidate the distinct stance adopted by Yi Tonhwa, thereby illuminating the nuances that set his philosophy apart. While grappling with the intricacies of adapting Eastern ethical thoughts to the tangible realities of his era, Yi Tonhwa harbored an enduring belief in the foundational merit of Confucianism's relational approach to human interactions. He envisioned a philosophical renaissance that did not supplant the relational aspects of human relations with Western philosophies, but rather re-envisioned it. This approach can be characterized as a perspective on humanity, wherein the Western concept of the individual serves as the core foundation, fostering a renewed Confucian ethos surrounding human relationships. Yi Tonhwa’s innovative approach did not halt at the integration of Western and Eastern philosophies. Drawing inspiration from the spiritual tenets of Donghak (東學), he ventured further to conceptualize a novel archetype of human existence, a trans-human(人間格) that embodies and articulates the vast expanse of the universe. In this, he transcended the boundaries of conventional human centrality dictated by reason, paving the way for a groundbreaking paradigm that reverberates with the cosmic synergy. This intricate blend of philosophies culminates in a holistic view of humanity, where the person is not merely an entity influenced by modern Western perspectives, but a being resonating with the universal echoes, harmoniously bridging the essence of humanity with the grandeur of the universe. Through this study, we seek to intricately unravel the depth and breadth of Yi Tonhwa's perspectives on humanity, accentuating the innovative facets that earmark his philosophical discourse as a beacon of intellectual resurgence during a period marred by societal chaos.