Exploring the Doctrine of Mean in the Huizhou School of Pragmatic Learning: A Case Study of Dai Zhen, Cheng Yaotian and Ling Tingkan

The doctrines of the Mean held by Dai Zhen, Cheng Yaotian and Ling Tingkan exemplify the nuanced perspective within the Huizhou School of Pragmatic Learning. Dai Zhen’s conception of the Mean is rooted in his human nature theory that centers on vital energy, sentiments, and reason, positing that the virtue of the Mean respects and appropriately manages these inherent faculties and their inherent order. Cheng Yaotian’s view on the Mean is grounded in self-reflection and sincerity, emphasizing the application of classical principles and rites in addressing matters, with the understanding of the Mean emerging through such practical engagement. Ling Tingkan’s interpretation revolves around ritual as its core, advocating for discarding rigid rationalism in favor of rituals, where the Mean represents a harmonious unity between conforming to one’s disposition and tempering it with proper rites. The Mean doctrine of all three scholars diverges from the philosophical thought of Neo-Confucianism espoused by Cheng-Zhu school, which emphasizes heavenly principles over human desires and discerns essence and function. Their views reflect two salient academic characteristics of Huizhou School of Pragmatic Learning: the reevaluation and innovation of preceding scholarship, and the discovery of profound meanings and truths through textual exegesis and philological inquiry.