A Narrow View on GoBong Zhuzixue

Abstract

GoBong is a famous neo-Confucian in Joseon dynasty, his system does not deviate from the Zhuzixue. But, the metaphysics of GoBong can't but be dualistic, moreover, since it can't escape the influence of Gi, so can't guarantee that Li will be the substance or final basis. He also overlooked that the principle in Gijiljiseong is not entirely the same as Bonyeonjiseong . So although it is said that the nature is expressed and becomes emotion, but the underlying principle is not necessarily good, so the emotion is also not inherently good. Although, if you look at his whole system, then can easily find one thing that GoBong never intended to put down that the principle is the ultimate basis. He emphasized all the way, the principle of goodness is the final basis of existence, so it is not merely nature but the mind and emotion are all intrinsically good. We have this great potential to practice good, and if we trust and strive it, we will have access to the ideal personality. This is a good model for explaining how a system of neo-confucianism that does not recognize "Libal" can practice morality, it is also one of the ways to develop Zhuzixue.