In the “Exploration to Korean Philosophy” series, we will delve deeper into the subject matter than what was previously addressed in the courses “Introduction to Korean Philosophy and Culture (IKPC)” and “In Search for the Origins of Korean Philosophy (SOKP).”
In EKP2, “Formation of “Korean” Neo-Confucianism,” is a course that zooms in on the era when Korean philosophy blossomed and looks into detailed topics. Here we will look at the debate between Buddhism and Confucianism, the diagrams that Koreans drew to capture the world and explore the inner self of humans, and the philosophy of salvation through the heart, which is the goal of these attempts.
Overview
Syllabus
- Confucian-Buddhist Debate
- This week, we focus on the Confucian-Buddhist debate during the Joseon dynasty, emphasizing the rise of Neo-Confucianism over Buddhism and Daoism. We will learn about Neo-Confucian critiques against Buddhism and reflect on the role of argumentation in Korean philosophy and society. The lessons also cover the transition from syncretism to orthodoxy and highlight key historical figures. In later lessons, we will explore Sambong's critiques of Buddhism and delve into the Confucian-Buddhist debates between Sambong and Gihwa, considering their impact on modern Korean philosophy and social harmony.
- Thinking and Debating through Diagrams
- This week, we will focus on the use of diagrams in Neo-Confucianism and their role in Korean philosophy. We will learn about the emergence of these diagrams, their significance, and specific diagrams related to human relations with Heaven and Earth. The lessons also cover the Korean philosophical diagram, Doseol, which represents human existence and life in Joseon Korea. Lastly, we will explore the early development of Doseol and its role in domesticating Neo-Confucianism in Korea.
- Exploring the Heart-Mind through Heavenly Mandate
- In this week, we will explore the connection between the heart-mind and Heaven in Korean philosophy. We will gain an understanding of the Korean concept of Maum (heart-mind), its role in reaching Heaven, and its connection with Heaven and humans. The lessons also delve into the historical significance of Cheonmyeong-do and the centuries-long debate it sparked in Korea.
- Heavenly Mandate to Four-Seven Debate
- In this week, we will explore the famous Four-Seven debate, delving into the distinctions between the four moral emotions and seven everyday feelings. We will analyze whether Korean Neo-Confucianism is synonymous with Korean philosophy and understand these concepts through the Li-Qi metaphysical framework. The lessons also revisit the Four-Seven debate, examining the role of Libal and the emphasis on seven feelings in Korean Neo-Confucianism.
Taught by
SO JEONG PARK
