‘선비’의 현대적 구현을 위한 시론- ‘선비’ 또는 ‘선비정신’과 관련된 몇 가지 현실적 논의 -

Abstract

Recently, interest in ‘Seonbi’ and ‘Seonbi spirit’ has increased in many parts of our society, and research has also been dynamic. At one time, it was regarded as a relic of the old era to be liquidated, but a positive discourse was formed on the tide of re-examination of traditional culture. Previous discourse argues that Seonbi as an ideal human being is a diachronic figure and is necessary in modern society as well. The approach is mainly focused on arguments that the leader must demonstrate and practice the spirit of Seonbi called ‘Seonbi Leadership’, and that all citizens must independently demonstrate the spirit of Seonbi. Based on these previously accumulated studies and discourse, this paper conducts an advanced discussion called 'how to implement a practical Seonbi spirit'. In the process, it presents that advancement of Seonbi spirit is important for the modern implementation of ethos of Seonbi. Furthermore, I analyzes several difficulties that prevents the rise of the ethos of Seonbi. The first obstacle is the gap between reality and ideals about Seonbi. People's perception of the term ‘Seonbi’ is spread over a very wide spectrum. From the highest praise, which refers to the most ideal human figure, to teasing, to slander, to swearing, the spirituality of the word ‘Seonbi’ clearly shows the gap between ideals and reality. Such situation is the biggest obstacle to the realization of the purpose of the pan-Seonbi discourse called implementation of Seonbi and Seonbi spirit. The second difficulty is that the character of Seonbi is overly focused on their sacrificial and moral aspects. By setting 'Seonbi' as a figure that is not familiar to the general public, it acts as a barrier to the implementation of Seonbi spirit. Accordingly, this study suggests a realistic direction for the implementation of the spirit of Seonbi in modern society, which includes ‘recognition of the human aspect of Seonbi’ and ‘the need and method for cultivating substantive Seonbi’. Previous research and discourse highlighted the heroic aspect of the Seonbi, but at this stage, showing their humane aspects together can be effective in renewing the perception of the Seonbi. A new group of Seonbi as ‘scholars studying Confucianism as Learning for oneself(爲己之學), which is different from existing researchers, will be able to realize the spirit of Seonbi and encourage ethos of Seonbi.