The Influx of Western Science and Choe Han-gi's Political Philosophy: From Virtue to Knowledge

This paper argues that Choe Han-gis' political philosophy should be defined as jichi (rule by knowledge). Deokchi (rule by virtue) is a common political principle present from primitive Confucianism all the way up to Neo-Confucianism, and which places the essence of politics in the rulers' moral virtue. On the other hand, jichi is distinguished from deokchi in that it is a political principle centered on knowledge. Choe's advocacy of jichi while inheriting Confucianism is related to the acceptance of Western science. Deokchi in Confucianism is justified within the relationship between the Mandate of Heaven and the human mind, and Choe Han-gi is no exception. However, the acceptance of Western science differentiates the concepts of the Mandate of Heaven and the human mind, and jichi is justified. In jichi, policy decisions are made based on the relevant knowledge, and the acquisition of knowledge occurs through cognition. These characteristics are prominent in practicing politics for the people. Politics for the people is not based merely on the morality of the ruler. When politics is based on the knowledge gained by cognizing the opinions of the people, politics for the people is realized.