<중용>과 진화생물학의 대화 가능성 모색

Abstract

This study aimed to find the possibility of interactions between the Doctrine of the Mean and evolutionary biology. Between the two disciplines, there exists a huge gap such as “traditional era vs. modern times” and “humanities vs. natural science.” However, this paper assumed that an analysis of their similarities and differences would allow us to find the possibility for them to interact and communicate with each other. For this purpose, the author proposed a three-step approach to studies of the following topics: human nature in step 1, validity of reasons to live in step 2 and biologically affinitive relations in step 3. The present study in step 1 pays attention to the similarities and differences between genes and in-ui-ye-ji (a set of four Confucian values: benevolence, righteousness, propriety and wisdom). This step discusses the issues of ri (principle) and ki (generative force) in Zhu Xi’s theory vs. genes and vehicles in evolutionary biology, innate goodness vs. altruism of genes and in-ui-ye-ji vs. epigenetic rules. In step 2, attention is paid to the similarities and differences between natural selection and shi zhong (時中). They are discussed in terms of the upset of the law of nature vs. mutation, changes vs. evolutions and shi zhong vs. natural selection/adaptation. Step 3 focuses on the similarities and differences between species diversity and li-yi-fen-shu (one li and its many aspects). The discussion in this step addresses the issues of part or whole vs. li-yi-fen-shu, biological affinity vs. single energy and ecosystem vs. “the earth moves orderly, and everything thereon flourishes.”If these studies are conducted as planned, a new direction can be set for Zhu Xi’s neo-Confucianism. Further, the interaction between humanities and natural science will pave the way for us to overcome asymmetry between different disciplines.