Wang Yangming

Wang Yangming (1472-1529) was a Chinese philosopher, scholar, and military general known for his contributions to Neo-Confucianism. He emphasized the importance of intuitive knowledge and moral action, arguing that true understanding comes not just from studying texts but also from self-reflection and applying one's insights in daily life. Wang believed that everyone has an inherent moral sense, which he called "liangzhi," meaning "innate knowledge." His ideas encouraged personal development and direct engagement with ethical dilemmas, influencing Chinese thought and education well beyond his time. Wang Yangming's philosophy remains significant in discussions of ethics and moral philosophy.