공자의 학문관

Abstract

In this paper, the author examines Confucius’s view of learning. The paper focuses on what Confucius thinks about the meanings, the objects, the methods and the purposes of the learning activities and knowledge in general. Confucius’s thought on learning is not something only stops at fixed and particular points. It aims at acquiring positively all elements necessary to the human’s life. The highest purpose of Confucius’s thought on learning is reaching a state of perfection, the comprehensive development of the human beings. Therefore the subjects suggested are detailed, including rites, music, archery, chariot-riding, caligraphy, computation, and poetry-composing (詩). Methods of learning that Confucius suggests can be said to embrace two kinds, that is to say the self-learning and the education received from others. The emphasis that Confucius puts on the self-learning can be seen in three aspects as follows. Firstly, the parallelism between learning and thinking. If the extension of knowledge by means of institutions, civilization and the writing can be called ‘learning’ (學), then ‘thinking’ (思) means the process of intensifying and receiving that knowledge. Secondly, the self-directed learning and the unceasing exertion; and thirdly, the self-examination and self-restoration. The external method means the receipt of education, and all contents mentioned above are relevant to either the self-learning or the receipt of knowledge from others. The point must be emphasized here is the attitude the teachers must have in order to improve the effects of education. Confucius considers the ability of the teachers much important. The main method he usually uses when teaching the disciples is providing them an education corresponding with their own capacities. It means carrying out an education program based on students’ understanding and practice ability which is grasped through a careful consideration. In order to achieve that purpose, Confucius often follows the methods of complimenting and reproving.