정암 조광조의 의리사상

Abstract

This dissertation explores the Righteousness Thought of Cho Kwang-jo. The specific contents can be systemized as 1) 'Defining the Good,' 2) 'Making the Meaning Sincere,' 3) 'Straightening the Mind,' and 4) 'Acting Sincerely.' These contents are rather an ideologic approach. This is because the Righteousness Thought of Cho Kwang-jo tends to strongly pursue very fundamental ideology while general righteousness thought tends to be practice-oriented. He was rather an ideological thinker; the reason was that his practice more focused on the foundation, that is, the ideal, rather than on the reality. He pursued more fundamental things than problems from reality. It was because he was more an ideologic, spiritual leader than a realistic politician. His whole life also pursued such consistent goal. He was confident that the Joseon Dynasty's politics could also realize the best value. His thoughts demonstrated that the way for my own sake is not a different way with the one for others' sake. This point is the futuristic value of his thought and should be thoughtfully considered by the today's scholars.