Cheng Hao

Definition

Cheng Hao was a prominent Chinese philosopher and a key figure in the development of Neo-Confucianism during the Song Dynasty. He is best known for his emphasis on the concept of 'li' or principle, which he viewed as an intrinsic part of human nature and the universe. Cheng Hao's ideas helped lay the groundwork for later thinkers, fostering a blend of Confucian ethics with Buddhist and Daoist influences, thereby shaping a more holistic philosophical system.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cheng Hao emphasized the importance of personal cultivation and moral integrity, arguing that individuals should strive to align themselves with the underlying principles of the universe.
2. He is known for advocating that knowledge should be pursued not just for academic purposes but as a means to achieve moral self-improvement.
3. Cheng Hao's teachings highlighted the significance of spontaneous feelings and intuitions in understanding the moral order of the universe.
4. He had a brother, Cheng Yi, who also contributed significantly to Neo-Confucian thought, though their philosophies had some differences.
5. Cheng Hao's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the intellectual landscape of later periods, especially during the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Review Questions

• How did Cheng Hao's ideas contribute to the evolution of Neo-Confucianism?
  • Cheng Hao's ideas played a critical role in shaping Neo-Confucianism by emphasizing 'li' as a fundamental aspect of both human nature and the cosmos. His focus on moral cultivation and personal integrity encouraged individuals to seek alignment with universal principles. By integrating insights from Buddhism and Daoism, Cheng Hao helped create a more inclusive philosophical framework that would influence subsequent generations.
• In what ways did Cheng Hao’s concepts differ from traditional Confucian thought?
  • Cheng Hao's concepts differed from traditional Confucian thought primarily in his focus on 'li' and its connection to human nature and intuition. While traditional Confucianism often centered on social rituals and hierarchical relationships, Cheng emphasized individual moral cultivation and understanding through personal experience. This shift allowed for a more dynamic interpretation of morality that incorporated elements from other philosophical traditions.
• Evaluate the impact of Cheng Hao’s philosophy on later thinkers such as Zhu Xi and its relevance in modern Chinese thought.
  • Cheng Hao's philosophy had a profound impact on later thinkers like Zhu Xi, who expanded upon his ideas and established them as core tenets of Neo-Confucianism. Zhu Xi integrated Cheng's concepts into a broader system that became foundational for educational curricula in China. The relevance of Cheng Hao’s philosophy persists in modern Chinese thought, influencing contemporary discussions on morality, ethics, and personal development within both academic and cultural contexts.

Related terms

Li: A central concept in Neo-Confucianism, referring to the principle or order that governs the universe and human behavior.

Zhu Xi:

A later Neo-Confucian scholar who built upon Cheng Hao's ideas, becoming one of the most influential figures in Chinese philosophy.

Neo-Confucianism:

A philosophical movement that emerged during the Song Dynasty, integrating Confucianism with elements of Buddhism and Daoism.