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 5: Cognition and Decision-Making
In governance, the ultimate purpose of cognition is to make correct decisions.
Master Xunzi says:
"Then it is sufficient to determine right and wrong and resolve suspicion."
"Determine right and wrong" (ding shi fei 定是非)—judging what is correct and what is wrong. "Resolve suspicion" (jue xian yi 决嫌疑)—making a decision in doubtful or ambiguous situations.
In political practice, the most difficult task is often not judging obvious right from wrong, but making decisions under "suspicion"—where things appear somewhat right and somewhat wrong, ambiguous situations. This capacity requires the highest level of cognition—which is the result of the state of "Great Clarity and Brightness" achieved through "Emptiness, Singularity, and Stillness."
Conversely:
"If drawn away by small things, its rectitude is externally compromised; if its inner core leans, it is insufficient to resolve even crude principles."
If one is distracted by trivial matters, one loses the ability to judge even crude principles—let alone making sound decisions in complex political situations.
The downfall of many historical regimes occurred precisely because the ruler was drawn by "small things"—indulging in sensory pleasures, favoring flatterers, chasing minor immediate gains while ignoring long-term plans—ultimately leading to a total loss of judgment and the ruin of the state.