Maximilian Karl Emil Weber suggested that Confucianism is not a branch of practical learning, but simply a value system aimed at maintaining social order. So, in his view, what constitutes practical learning? Studies that examine the number of teeth a crow possesses, when elephants engage in mating activities, the exact measurement of the distance between Earth and the moon, and the methods to increase the computational power of microchips, all likely fall under Weber’s definition of practical learning.
I used to frequently watch BBC documentaries, which often featured Western scientists journeying to Africa. They took blood samples from animals living there and measured their blood pressure, carefully logging data about the mating behaviors of African lions. The stated purpose of such research was that it would aid in our understanding of these creatures and consequently improve our ability to help them. When I was young, I might have thought that their work had some significance. Now, hearing such justifications, I find it somewhat amusing. In my view, as humans, our first priority should be understanding ourselves. Only when we thoroughly comprehend ourselves can we genuinely help ourselves, and then truly assist others, whether it’s elephants or the indigenous people of Africa. Despite the long history of human existence, our self-understanding has not significantly surpassed that of our ancestors in the Stone Age. Knowing the number of bones in our body, understanding how blood circulates, how diseases originate, or grasping Freud’s anal stage theory does not constitute self-understanding. Truly understanding oneself involves grasping the actual condition of our body and mind, both in relative and absolute terms. In this aspect, Western modern civilization is nearly vacant. It is indeed ironic that Westerners devote so much time and energy into researching animals, plants, and even Mars, while remaining largely ignorant about themselves.
I often see many people posting various things on their social media circles. From what they share, it’s clear that most of them do not truly understand themselves: they neither know their own capabilities nor recognize the stage they’re at in their life or spiritual development. They are unaware of what they need and what they can realistically achieve. This lack of self-awareness leaves their lives and spiritual progress in a state of hopelessness. One of the most important aspects of Confucian education is self-understanding, helping you to pinpoint your position in every moment. Only by understanding yourself can you know who you are, understand who others are, and discern what to do and say in each situation. It allows you to understand priorities and gauge whether your actions are appropriate and correct. Most people today lack this ability. They don’t know who they are or who others are, and their understanding of their own and others’ roles is entirely misguided. Consequently, they often create awkward or ridiculous situations.
I’ve witnessed many individuals who, metaphorically speaking, would attempt to place an elephant’s hat on a mouse, or suggest a cat and a mouse to share a meal together. Not understanding your own position or the positions of others can make you come across as unsophisticated, causing trouble in virtually everything you do. When you misunderstand your own position or that of others, everything else tends to misalign as a consequence. This is one of the primary sources of distress in the modern world. Therefore, from my perspective, there’s no more vital practical knowledge than this. Without understanding these concepts, your life and spiritual practice are essentially destined for failure. The conveniences offered by modern technological products (what Maximilian Karl Emil Weber would term as ‘practical knowledge’) are far from sufficient to compensate or replace the devastating consequences caused by the modern individual’s misunderstanding of traditional culture. Thus, this is the practical knowledge everyone should acquire.
To someone living in the Zhoushan Islands, acquiring knowledge about the routines and dietary preferences of a koala holds virtually no significance to their daily life — unless, perhaps, they aspire to take a koala as a life partner. Otherwise, this kind of information bears little relevance to them. Life is fleeting; the majority of us are granted just over 26,000 days on Earth. Therefore, it’s essential that you invest those precious days learning about things that directly enrich your life, rather than delving into trivialities such as the dental count of seagulls or their nesting habits. For those engaged in spiritual practices, what’s truly valuable is learning to understand oneself and the world around us, discerning one’s own circumstances and needs, and seeking out the teachings and mentors that resonate with you. These are elements often lacking in many people’s lives, and they’re certainly not insights one can gain by solely observing African elephants or interacting with a chatbot like chatGPT.
Ling Shan Hermit wrote this on June 1, 2023, and it was first published on June 3, 2023.
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