| Abstract:The origin of the Zhe Philosophical Study can be traced back to the Guyue Culture or even the pre historic culture in the region of Zhejiang. However, as a unique academic form, it takes Wang Chong as its founder, which was shaped during the Northern Song Dynasty, and became prosperous during the Southern Song Dynasty, then further developed during Ming and Qing Dynasties until now it is transformed in the contemporary China. The contents of the Zhe Philosophical Study can be distinguished by its specific, and general meanings, as well as any concept in between. The fundamental spirit of Zhe Philosophical Study can be summarized as “people oriented, to seek the truth, be critical, compatible and creative”. It is typically reflected in the 5 concepts of “Truth seeking and criticism of falsehood” by Wang Chong, “advocating both righteousness and interest” by Ye Shi, “integration of knowledge and action” by Wang Yangming, “the management of social and national affairs” by Huang Zongxi, and “tolerance and compatibility” by Cai Yuanpei, which still serves as a guidance in the social, economy and cultural development of Zhejiang. The main body of Zhe Philosophical Study in the Ming and Qing Dynasties is Yangming Study. Yang Ming's philosophy is based on "conscience" as its ontology, and "to achieve conscience" as its fundamental approach, "integration of knowledge and action" as its practical work, and its application of political ethics to its people. The virtue morality, humanistic care, practice, the spirit of pluralism and tolerance still has important enlightenment significance for contemporary self cultivation, moral integrity, and governance of individual families as well as the country. |