四書에 나타난 유학사상의 경제관 연구

Abstract

This study focuses on investigating modern value of economic perspectives in traditional confucianism by analyzing the relating statements on the Four books(Great Learning, Doctrine of the Mean, Analects, Mencius) into three concepts - production, consumption, distribution - considered to be the basic economic activities of modern capitalism industry society. First of all, from the point of view of "production", which is more close to producing profits, the most remarkable value the Four books suggest is "righteousness " differentiating with a general commercial activity prioritizing the quantity of profit regardless of morality. Second, from the perspective of "consumption", the concepts of "thrifty" and "timeliness" are the most important implied principles. Third, in case of "distribution", "fairness" for the purpose of coexistence is the most important value in order to make stable environment in which everyone of the society could strive for the recovery of innate good-human nature without any difficulties on living. In conclusion, the economic view of traditional Confucianism that emphasizes the accompanied growth by making righteous profits, timely consuming for the right purpose while living in frugality, fair distribution of wealth still gives implications to modern capitalism industry society having troubles with polarization, domineeringness of a few huge capital, gradual loss of humanity causing lots of anti-human crimes.