A Deep Study of Xunzi's 'Jie Pi' Chapter: On the Cognitive Foundations of the Mind—Emptiness, Unity, and Tranquility
This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the core proposition in Xunzi's 'Jie Pi' concerning the nature of cognition: 'How does man know$41 By the mind. How does the mind know$42 By being empty, unified, and tranquil.' It systematically interprets the dialectical relationship and philosophical implications of 'emptiness' (xu), 'unity' (yi), and 'tranquility' (jing) in cognition, tracing their ancient intellectual origins to reveal the systematicity and sophistication of Pre-Qin cognitive theory.
Section 2: The Ideal of Governance: "All things accomplished without issuing orders for every affair."
"In antiquity, when Shun governed the world, all things were accomplished without him issuing orders for every affair."
This is Master Xunzi’s ideal of governance: no need to issue decrees for every specific matter, yet all things are naturally accomplished.
How is this ideal realized$19 The key is "Concentrating on the Dao" (Yi Yu Dao)—grasping the fundamental Dao of governance.
What is the fundamental Dao of governance$20 In Master Xunzi’s system, it includes at least the following aspects:
First, Ritual and Righteousness (Li Yi 礼义). Ritual and Righteousness are the foundation of social order. With a complete system of Li Yi, people are in their proper places and fulfill their roles, eliminating the need for the ruler to interfere in every detail.
Second, Worthy Talent (Xian Neng 贤能). Appointing worthy and capable individuals to all levels of office. With worthy officials, specific tasks will naturally be handled by others, requiring no personal intervention from the ruler.
Third, Moral Education (Jiao Hua 教化). Through teaching and influence, ensuring the populace voluntarily adheres to social norms. With good education, the people self-regulate, eliminating the need for harsh laws.
These three—Li Yi, Xian Neng, and Jiao Hua—together constitute the fundamental Dao of governance. The ruler only needs to grasp these three, and specific affairs will operate naturally—this is "all things accomplished without issuing orders for every affair."