Silhak Movement

Definition

The Silhak movement, also known as the Practical Learning movement, was an intellectual and social movement in late Joseon Korea during the 17th to 19th centuries that emphasized practicality and the importance of empirical observation. This movement sought to reform Korean society by advocating for practical knowledge, scientific inquiry, and socio-economic development, contrasting with the more traditional Confucian ideals that dominated the era. It played a crucial role in shaping modern Korean thought by encouraging a shift towards a more pragmatic approach to governance and education.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Silhak movement arose as a response to the perceived stagnation of Joseon society due to rigid Confucian ideals and socio-economic issues.
2. Key figures in the Silhak movement included scholars like Jeong Yak-yong and Kim Jeong-hui, who promoted practical knowledge in various fields including agriculture and technology.
3. The movement contributed to advancements in agriculture through the development of farming techniques and agricultural tools, which improved productivity.
4. Silhak thinkers also emphasized the importance of education tailored to real-world applications rather than purely theoretical knowledge.
5. The legacy of the Silhak movement continues to influence contemporary Korean thought, emphasizing the value of scientific inquiry and practical solutions to societal problems.

Review Questions

• How did the Silhak movement challenge traditional Confucian values in Joseon Korea?
  • The Silhak movement challenged traditional Confucian values by prioritizing practical knowledge and empirical observation over strict adherence to classical texts. While Confucianism emphasized moral virtues and social hierarchy, Silhak thinkers argued for a more pragmatic approach that addressed real-life problems through scientific inquiry and technological advancement. This shift helped to open up intellectual discussions about reforming society for economic development and modernization.
• Discuss the impact of key figures from the Silhak movement on Korean society during the late Joseon period.
  • Key figures like Jeong Yak-yong and Kim Jeong-hui significantly influenced Korean society by advocating for reforms in agriculture, education, and governance. Their writings encouraged a departure from purely theoretical teachings towards practical applications that benefited everyday life. By promoting innovative farming techniques and critiquing existing bureaucratic practices, these scholars contributed to a gradual transformation of societal structures that laid the groundwork for future modernization efforts in Korea.
• Evaluate how the Silhak movement has shaped contemporary Korean thought regarding education and governance.
  • The Silhak movement has had a lasting influence on contemporary Korean thought by instilling a belief in the importance of practicality in both education and governance. Today, there is a strong emphasis on empirical research and innovation within South Korea’s educational systems, aiming to prepare students for real-world challenges. Additionally, the legacy of seeking pragmatic solutions over traditional norms continues to inspire policymakers as they address modern social issues, reflecting an ongoing commitment to progress that traces back to Silhak ideals.

Related terms

Confucianism:

A philosophical and ethical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and proper governance.

Donghak: A religious and philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th century Korea, which sought to combine elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism while promoting social justice.

Gyeongguk Daejeon: The comprehensive legal code established in the Joseon Dynasty, reflecting Confucian principles and governance structures, which Silhak thinkers often critiqued for being too rigid.