The Three Dimensions of Wang Fuzhi's Thoughts of the Chinese National Community
Wang Fuzhi's perspective on the distinction between Hua(the cultured)and Yi(the uncul-tured)is rooted in cultural identity rather than bloodline or geographical origin.He posits that the Chi-nese nation is defined by its embrace of Chinese culture,while those outside of this cultural sphere are considered barbarians.This perspective transcends the traditional limitations of racial and regional dis-tinctions,fostering a more cohesive and progressive identity.The Chinese culture,as re-envisioned by Wang Fuzhi,has cultivated a national ethos characterized by self-improvement,proactivity,reverence for virtue and loyalty,and patriotism.He stood against feudal autocracy,championing the principles of justice and power balance,and argued that governance should be a reflection of the national will,with a focus on the nation's future and destiny,ensuring that politics serve as a safeguard for the nation's sur-vival and development.Wang Fuzhi also articulated a theory of human emancipation,addressing the con-straints on human nature imposed by the Neo-Confucianism of the Song and Ming dynasties.He sought to liberate the innate temperament within human nature,thereby removing barriers to the development of the Chinese nation while upholding Confucian moral values.His thoughts on nationalism have left an in-delible mark on subsequent generations.
Wangfu zhiChinese nationChinese culturebenevolent politicsemancipation of hu-manity