Chinese Philosophy: An Exposition of the Main Characteristic Features of Chinese Thought (Classic Reprint) - Tapa dura

Excerpt from Chinese Philosophy: An Exposition of the Main Characteristic Features of Chinese Thought

But it is not the rigidity of their language alone that is at the basis of the Chinese conservatism, it is also the simplicity of the fundamental ideas of their world-view and the striking symbolism in which they are expressed and which makes it impossible for the Chi nese to think in any other modes of thought than their own. The inviolable power of their tradition is further strengthened by an im perturbable patience and unbounded reverence for the sages of yore. The former renders the people submissive to many unheard-of abuses on the part of the authorities, while the latter keeps them in faithful adhesion to established conditions.

From time immemorial the highest ideal of Chinese thinkers has been to bow in modesty and submission to the insuperable gran deur of their ancient traditions. Criticism is very meek, originality of thought is strangled ere it can-develop, and any attempted pro~ gress beyond the old masters appears to them as insanity. It is as if a Christian would dare to be better or wiser than Christ. In a word, the whole Chinese civilisation is saturated with the belief in the divinity, the perfection, and the unqualified excellence of its principles, doctrines, and institutions.

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