왕양명 치양지론의 마음인문학적 활용을 위한 시론

Abstract

This study explores the potential application of Wang Yangming’s theory of the extension of Zhiliangzhi(致良知) in the field of Mind Humanities. To demonstrate the possibility of mutual utilization between these two domains, this study first examined the similarities between key concepts in the mind study of Yang-ming studies and Mind Humanities. The comparison of Wang's theory of Zhiliangzhi (致良知) with the integrated model of mind study in Mind Humanities was then conducted. Liangzhi(良知) can be understood in three aspects within the structure of consciousness: supervising the good and evil of thoughts through its empty and clear nature, making judgments of right and wrong, and driving the removal of evil intentions while promoting good ones. Mind Humanities, based on existing insights into the mind, understands the mind in three structures: the original mind, the “I am” mind, and the “I do” mind. We found similarities between the empty and clear nature of Zhiliangzhi(致良知) and the intrinsic awareness of the original mind, particularly in their empty attributes and illuminating functions. Additionally, the three characteristics of the mind-neither good nor evil, capable of good and evil, and choosing good while discarding evil-can be compared from the perspective of Wang’s four-sentence teaching. Furthermore, this study examined the methodology of Zhiliangzhi(致良知) in Wang’s “Inquiries on the Great Learning” and explored the integrated model of mind study in terms of nature, phenomenon, and practice. The concept of Zhiliangzhi(致良知), where the innate knowledge itself governs the practice, is comparable to the emphasis on intrinsic awareness as the subject of mind study in the integrated model. Moreover, the practice of Zhiliangzhi(致良知), which involves distinguishing between good and evil intentions based on innate knowledge’s ability to judge right and wrong, and subsequently practicing good while removing evil, aligns with the integrated model’s approach of accepting and analyzing phenomena, discerning right from wrong, and implementing righteous actions while rejecting unjust ones. Mind Humanities is developing and applying various programs based on the integrated model of mind study. The similarities between the two approaches suggest the possibility of developing programs based on the theory of ZhiLiangzhi(致良知), potentially offering a new way to address current real-world problems and respond to societal demands.