Silhak

Definition

Silhak, or 'practical learning,' refers to a movement that emerged in Korea during the late Joseon period, advocating for the application of knowledge to real-world issues and social reforms. It sought to challenge the dominant Neo-Confucian ideals that prioritized abstract learning and moral philosophy, pushing for a more pragmatic approach to governance and society. Silhak thinkers emphasized the importance of empirical observation and practical skills to address the needs of the people.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Silhak emerged as a response to the limitations of traditional Neo-Confucian education, emphasizing knowledge that could directly benefit society.
2. Key figures in the silhak movement included scholars such as Jeong Yakyong and Yu Hyongwon, who advocated for agricultural reform and practical education.
3. The movement contributed to significant social and economic changes in late Joseon society by promoting policies that addressed land distribution and peasant rights.
4. Silhak thinkers often criticized the elite ruling class for their detachment from the realities faced by common people, calling for a more responsive government.
5. The ideas of silhak laid groundwork for later reform movements in Korea, influencing both modern Korean thought and practices in governance.

Review Questions

• How did silhak challenge the existing Neo-Confucian values during the late Joseon period?
  • Silhak challenged Neo-Confucian values by shifting focus from abstract moral principles to practical knowledge aimed at solving real-world problems. While Neo-Confucianism emphasized ethical conduct and social order through rigid hierarchical structures, silhak advocates argued for empirical observation and reformist policies that could directly improve the lives of ordinary people. This marked a significant ideological shift toward a more pragmatic approach to governance and societal well-being.
• Discuss the contributions of key silhak scholars to social reform during the late Joseon period.
  • Key silhak scholars like Jeong Yakyong and Yu Hyongwon made substantial contributions to social reform by promoting ideas such as agricultural improvements and land redistribution. They pushed for policies that supported peasant rights and sought to create a more equitable society through practical governance strategies. Their works encouraged an intellectual environment that valued research-based solutions over traditional ideologies, leading to meaningful changes in how society approached issues of poverty and agricultural productivity.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of silhak on Korean thought and governance in subsequent periods.
  • The long-term impact of silhak on Korean thought and governance was profound, as its emphasis on practical learning and social responsibility laid a foundation for future reform movements. This movement influenced later ideologies, including Donghak, which further promoted egalitarianism and national identity. The principles of silhak also resonated during Korea's modernization efforts in the 20th century, advocating for evidence-based policy-making and a government more accountable to its citizens. This legacy continues to shape contemporary discussions around social justice and governance in Korea.

Related terms

Neo-Confucianism: A philosophical and ethical system that was prominent in Korea during the Joseon dynasty, focusing on morality, social harmony, and the importance of education.

Sadaejuui: The doctrine of 'serving the great,' which prioritized allegiance to powerful states or empires, influencing Korea's foreign relations during the Joseon period.

Donghak: A Korean religious and social movement founded in the late 19th century that combined elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, and shamanism, promoting egalitarianism and national sovereignty.