Wang Shouren

Wang Shouren, also known as Wang Yangming (1472–1529), was a prominent Chinese philosopher and official during the Ming dynasty. He is best known for developing the concept of "innate knowledge," which suggests that all humans have an inherent understanding of right and wrong. This idea emphasized the importance of personal moral intuition over rigid adherence to external rules. Wang also advocated for the integration of knowledge and action, believing that true understanding comes from applying one’s principles in daily life. His teachings significantly influenced East Asian philosophy and continue to resonate in discussions about ethics and personal development.