A Study of Liu Zongzhou’s Proposal of 'zhengming'
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Abstract
Based on the analysis of an incident that took place in the Chunqiu Period state of Wei, Liu Zongzhou (1578-1645) elaborated on the concept of zhengming 正名 (correcting names, rectifying terms, etc.). Firstly, Liu Zongzhou carefully examined the responsibilities of Confucius (551BCE-479BCE), Kuaikui (?-478BCE), Zhe (492BCE-481BCE), Ying, as well as how the proposal of zhengming could be effectively implemented. Secondly, Liu Zongzhou’s approach emphasizes the consequences of personal error and its rectification. Liu Zongzhou is particularly concerned with the political and ethical issues faced by zhengming, arguing that the evaluations of monarchal legitimacy can be approached from an ethical perspective. Thirdly, Liu Zongzhou’s proposal is shaped by the late Ming Dynasty’s context of foreign invasions and the breakdown of traditional moral teachings. Building on Liu Zongzhou’s approach, we can further explore the vital significance of the principle of zhengming. While zhengming is the ultimate goal and overarching principle, the specific approach varies depending on the time and circumstances.
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