남당 한원진의 가치 위계적 성삼층설의 특징 - 태극·오상·오행의 통합적 구조를 중심으로

Abstract

This paper analyzed Han Wonjin’s theory of Three-Tiered Nature(性三層說) from the Neo-Confucian perspective of the unified structure of supreme ultimate(太極) and five constant(五常) and five elements(五行). For that analysis, first of all, we showed that the unified structure can express the significance of the doctrine of “nature is principle”. And we identify the feature of the unified structure from which the issue of whether the nature of human is the same with the nature of things can be raised. We could grasp the way that the theory of Three-Tiered Nature functions to respond to the issue based on the feature of the unified structure. The unified structure not only provides the basis that human nature is good in itself, but also the basis to maximize the value of the human goodness. Logically, this philosophical project can be expressed as ‘universalization of five constant’. As a result, a logical relation can be established. that is, ‘supreme ultimate=five constant=five elements.’ But from this logical relation, one problem can be raised. The nature of human cannot be distinguished from the nature of other things. Han Wonjin’s theory of Three-Tiered Nature can be understood as a response to this problem. this theory can be regarded a claim to put a kind of hierarchical structure on the logical relation between the three. In other words, the theory of Three-Tiered Nature aim to maintain the unified structure, and at the same time, to secure distinction between the three. An important matter is whether the two different goals of unity and differentation are successfully achieved. This question was discussed in this paper. Han Wonjin made the matter of the nature more acute by considering seriously the distinction between original nature(本然之性) and physical nature(氣質之性). Through this deliberation, he showed his own deep thought about the five constant. His theory of Three-Tiered Nature reflects such deep thinking.