치지(致知)와 성의(誠意)의 개념적 관련성 고찰-<대학장구>와 <대학혹문>을 중심으로

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relations of knowledge and morality by understanding the conceptual relations of the extension of knowledge(致知) and sincerity(誠意) in Chu Hsi(朱熹)′s 『Great Learning Chapters(大學章句)』 and 『Question and Answer of Great Learning(大學或問)』. The extension of knowledge defined as intellectual activity based on the investigation of things(格物) and understanding of the law and reason of things which exist in the world around us. The ultimate purpose of the activity is to understand the transcendental principle. The activity should be conducted with existing knowledge, accumulated and continued. The inference is its effect. Sincerity(誠意) is the next clause of the extension of knowledge. It is the first gateway of morality in regard to the division of good and evil. Sincerity is defined as removing evils by doing genuine good. Pleasure can be derived in this state not because of the result, but because of human nature. Sincerity cannot be expected in the case the extension of knowledge goes wrong. To determine sincerity, the inner self must be examined with careful examination of intention at the time. The extension of knowledge can not guarantee sincerity. Sincerity requires the effort to follow the point of the extension of knowledge in addition to the achievement to the extension of knowledge. The role of the extension of knowledge in regard to sincerity is the standard to correct the insincerity. Knowledge works as the standard for correcting immorality.