Brief Writing Assignment #1
Following the Dao (CCCH9024)
Explain the distinction between s% 思 (thinking) and xué 思 (studying, learning) that is
drawn in 2.15 and 15.31. To what extent (if at all) does the Analects’ focus on learning
mean that we should just follow tradition, and not think for ourselves?
Confucius shared with his disciples two closely-related concepts: Studying and
thinking.
The major distinction between them is whether we have added our own
interpretation. Studying does not include our own interpretation, whereas thinking
includes.
Studying is a preliminary process that we acquire knowledge and learn other’s
idea. While learning and studying, we become familiar with a certain idea. Studying
enables us to acquire techniques applicable in the future. We do not add our feelings while
studying.
However, thinking is a follow-by process that we interpret things carefully and
think critically based on knowledge we acquire. We interpret things from different
perspectives and show our understanding, e.g. whether we agree the ideas and reasons
behind and our feelings.
