노사 기정진의 '卽氣觀理'에 기초한 理 중시적 사유

Abstract

This paper is to reconsider implication of Neo-Confucian theory by Nosa Gi Jeong-Jin (1798～1879), a representative scholar of 19th century Honam Confucianism and particularly of Li he stressed in an aspect that Li was ultimately to emphasize roles of Qi. Nosa who was categorized as Yulgok School paid a special attention to ‘Li.’ Why did he put so much importance on Li? It would be to identify the position in history of ideas with Nosa’s Neo-Confucian theory in Yulgok School. It is because it deviates from Yulgok School’s basic premise that focuses on harmony of Li and Qi or activeness of Qi. This study clarifies that grounds for Nosa’s stress on Li are actually for emphasizing roles of Qi yet again. His grounds started from a critical mind that meanings of Li were weakened. In other words, he attempted to make clear the meanings of Li inherent in every being through substantiality and universality of Li. His stress on Li here was raised for purpose of clear awareness in substantial and universal meaning of Li inherent in Qi. This logic led to seeking order in communities for excluding every religion and idea but Neo-Confucianism that time. Nevertheless, Nosa did not ignore Qi as an actual activist in reality. Stress on Li rather leads to encouraging roles of Qi itself. He does not deny the premise of Yulgok School that effectively changing power is within Qi. He put emphasis on Li simply to reinforce control over Qi. It is because autonomy without self control is very much likely to degenerate into self-indulgence. The presence of Li does not mean power of the absolute transcending reality. Rather, it promotes will for actively practicing morality of Qi. Through Nosa’s attitude of stressing Li, we can see once again that orientation of Yulgok School is toward Li’s realistic realization.