Breakthrough and Variations : The Changes of China's Confucianism in 16th and 17th Century

Since its emergence, Confucianism keeps on developing and changing. On the one hand, many factors, such as political ecology, economic situation and dynastic changes affect Confucianism. On the other hand, Confucianism also actively innovates itself in its concept and methods, showing a strong vitality. From the 16th century to the 17th century, Confucianism experienced an important development node. The philosophy of the mind was created by Wang Yangming during this period, followed by the development of a variety of schools. At that time, his theory, "e;Yangming mind thought"e; was of great popularity. However, some of Wang's students further developed the essence of his thoughts, while some fell into "e;crazy Zen"e; and "e;solitude"e;. When the Qing Dynasty replaced the Ming Dynasty, the empty talk of the later branch school of "e;Yangming mind thought"e; came under heavy criticism. While at the same time, theory of practical statecraft come into the spotlight. Theory of "e;replacing Neo-Confucianism with courtesy"e; and textual criticism drew wide concern. This book tries to draw a comprehensive conclusion of the development and evolution of Confucianism at that period. By combining Confucianism with the specific social and cultural background, this book tries to clarify the source, and show the reasons for the development of Confucianism, as well as its direction and situation.