『순자(荀子)』에서 수행성과 禮에 관한 일고찰

Abstract

This article focuses on the Confucian concept of li using Judith Butler's term, performativity. Performativity is the process of self-construction through repetitive behavior. The concept of li in Confucian philosophy,the system of right behavior that Confucian saints established, can be explained through performativity. Performativity provides a useful lens to examine the concepts of learning, body, and mind, which play a significant role in the process of self-construction in Xunzi. Since Confucius stressed the significance of practice in Confucian Analects, applied learning has been established as one of the core concepts in Confucian philosophy. Learning is not simply acquiring knowledge. It includes the process of putting that knowledge into practice. The concept of applied learning is elaborated in Xunzi. In Xunzi, learning is the process of constructing personhood. After acquiring knowledge about something, a person puts what he has learned into practice. Whether his practice is successful or not, the result of his practice affects his behavior and his personhood in the future. Thus, a person tries to prepare himself for right behavior. In Xunzi, the ideal person has the appropriate body for li, the system of correct behavior. He is able to realize li through his behavior at any place and anytime. This is because he always maintains a placid and tranquil heart. Since the mind-body distinction is not clear in Xunzi, the appropriate body includes the placid and tranquil state of heart. The placid and tranquil state of the heart is a necessary condition of realizing li.