근대적 “리(理)” 관념의 형성 − 천리(天理)에서 공리(公理)로 −

Abstract

“Li(理)” is an important category and concept of Eastern ancient philosophy. However, in the course of modern transformation of learning, the original meaning was changed as it responded to Western concepts. In this paper, I would like to trace one aspect of the modern transformation of the category and concept, focusing on the interpretation of the category of the “Li” by Meiji(明治) Japanese enlightenment scholar Nishi Amane(西周) who contributed greatly to the translation and creation of Western literature during the modern era and on the content of <Interpretation of “Li”(釋理)> written by modern Chinese scholar Wang Guowei(王國維). Especially when the transition from “Heavenly Principle(天理)” to “Axiom(公理)” is a big feature of the transition to “Li” category during the modern period, I think looking at the critical understanding and interpretation of the “Li” of representative modern intellectuals in China and Japan will greatly help us explore the modern transformation of East Asian traditional ideas and the formation of modern ideas.