토정 이지함의 도학사상(道學思想) 연구

Abstract

Tojeong, Lee Ji-ham was a Confucian scholar during the mid-Joseon era who tried to implement the perfection of knowledge by studying the principles of real things in Confucianism. He continually tried to put primaryrealworth into practice. Tojeong was conscious of the anxiety concerning the nation and of common people with exceptional abilities and academic backgrounds. He was a true scholar who tried to solve problems derived from social discrimination, disease and starvation that people are forced to face in their daily lives. However, he is recognized as an eccentric scholar who transcended all the formality of the mundane world with extra-ordinary behaviors. In the academic world, he is categorized as a Ghi-oriented scholar or a natural philosopher and these labels have caused his academic achievements to be devaluated, overlooked and excluded. However, Tojeong practiced the funeral and ancestral rites according to Confucius’manners and used the noble poverty of Geuk-Gi-Bok-Rye from Yan Hui and Mencius` reduction of desires as the foundation for cultivating one's mind. He also carefully considered the studies of Gyeong and faithfully committed himself to the practice of it. This signifies that he is a true Confucianist who tried to implement the teaching of Confucianism. As incumbent mayor in Pocheon Hyeon and Asan Hyeon, he tried to implement a practical way for people to govern through petition which is similar to the principle of a ruler’s governance. Tojeong's practical spirit has a philosophy that is earnest for patriotism and has affection for people. In addition to this, Tojeong's Confucian ethics reveal his strong will to realize ethical ideas and lessons by not avoiding the present reality which common people face.