Famous Chinese Philosophers

Confucius, a Chinese philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period, advocated for mass education and emphasized personal and governmental morality, harmonious social relationships, righteousness, kindness, sincerity, and a ruler's responsibilities to lead by virtue. He promoted filial piety, strong family loyalty, and the Silver Rule. His ideas gained prominence during the Warring States period and were later officially sanctioned under Emperor Wu of Han. Confucianism evolved into Neo-Confucianism and New Confucianism, integrating into Chinese society throughout the dynasties to the modern era.

Sun Tzu was a renowned Chinese military general, strategist, philosopher, and writer known for his influential work, The Art of War. He mastered the military science of ancient China and developed the doctrine of asymmetrical warfare, emphasizing strategic attacks when the enemy is vulnerable. His historicity is debated, with some placing him as a minister during the Warring States period. Sun Tzu's teachings have had a lasting impact on both Eastern and Western military philosophy, with his work being applied in various fields beyond warfare, including governance, business, and sports.

Laozi, a legendary Chinese philosopher, is known for writing the Tao Te Ching, a foundational text of Taoism. He served as the royal archivist for the Zhou court and is said to have met Confucius. Regarded as the founder of Taoism, he is honored as an ancestor of the Tang dynasty and revered in modern China. Some believe he became an immortal hermit, while others see the Tao Te Ching as the embodiment of the god Laojun. His work has had a profound influence on Chinese religious movements and philosophers.

Mencius was a Chinese Confucian philosopher known as the Second Sage, following in the footsteps of Confucius. He traveled extensively during the Warring States period, offering counsel to various rulers and sharing his ideology. His teachings emphasized the righteousness and humanity of human nature, contrasting with the beliefs of his contemporary Xunzi. Mencius' work, captured in the Mencius text, highlights the importance of righteous and humane policies in fostering a flourishing state where citizens are empowered to care for their families and society as a whole.

Budai, a renowned 10th-century Chinese monk, is famously known as The Laughing Buddha and The Fat Buddha. Carrying a cloth sack called "budai," he was revered as an avatar of Maitreya, the future Buddha. His figures are widely displayed in homes, symbolizing prosperity and contentment. Budai's professional life was dedicated to spreading teachings of joy and abundance, inspiring followers with his cheerful demeanor and embodiment of spiritual wealth. His legacy continues to resonate through his iconic representations as a symbol of happiness and fulfillment.

Xun Kuang, also known as Xunzi, was a prominent Chinese philosopher of Confucianism during the late Warring States period. He studied at the Jixia Academy, mastering various philosophical traditions. As a respected teacher in Qi, he influenced students like Han Fei and Li Si. Xunzi worked in the court of Lord Chunshen, witnessing the turmoil of his time. His writings engage with numerous thinkers, emphasizing his belief that human nature is inherently evil and advocating for education and ritual as means of self-cultivation. Despite later criticism, Xunzi's impact on Confucianism remains significant.

Hu Shih was a prominent figure in Chinese intellectual and political circles, known for his wide-ranging contributions to literature, philosophy, and political thought. He played a key role in promoting Chinese liberalism, advocating for language reform, and participating in movements such as the May Fourth Movement and China's New Culture Movement. Hu served as a president of Peking University and was an influential editor, writer, and scholar. He critiqued both the Nationalist government and the Chinese Communist Party, emphasizing the importance of democracy and constitutionalism in Chinese society.

Wang Yangming, also known as Wang Shouren, was a prominent Chinese philosopher, general, politician, writer, and calligrapher during the Ming dynasty. He is recognized as a key figure in Neo-Confucianism, with interpretations of Confucianism that challenged the orthodox views of Zhu Xi. Alongside Lu Xiangshan, he founded the Lu–Wang school, emphasizing the importance of the mind in moral cultivation. Wang Yangming's ideas have had a lasting impact in China, Japan, and Western countries, shaping the understanding of Confucian philosophy.

Li Si was a prominent figure in the Qin dynasty, serving as Chancellor under two emperors. He was known for his administrative prowess, implementing the ideas of Shen Buhai and Han Fei while following Shang Yang's legal principles. Li Si played a key role in standardizing laws, governmental practices, and cultural aspects across the empire. He promoted a merit-based government system, pacified frontier regions, and reformed taxation and punishment systems. His efforts contributed significantly to the unification and advancement of the Qin state and its territories.

Kang Youwei was a prominent political thinker and reformer in late Qing dynasty China, known for his advocacy of a constitutional monarchy. He gained influence over the young Guangxu Emperor, sparking conflict with Empress Dowager Cixi. Kang's ideas were key in the Hundred Days' Reform, which aimed to modernize China. After Cixi's coup ended the reform, Kang was forced to flee but continued advocating for constitutional monarchy during the Republic of China era. His professional life was marked by his dedication to political reform and modernization in China.

Shang Yang was a statesman, chancellor, and reformer of the State of Qin during the Warring States period in ancient China. His policies laid the foundations for administrative, political, and economic reforms that ultimately enabled Qin to unify China under centralized rule. He is credited with contributing to The Book of Lord Shang, a seminal work in the philosophy of Chinese legalism. Shang Yang's professional life was dedicated to implementing innovative strategies that helped Qin become a dominant power in the region.

Dajian Huineng, also known as the Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism, was a central figure in Chinese Chan Buddhism history. He demonstrated profound understanding despite lacking formal education, leading to his selection as the true successor by the fifth patriarch, Daman Hongren. Twentieth-century scholarship suggests that the story of his Buddhist career may have been fabricated by the monk Heze Shenhui. Huineng is credited with founding the "Sudden Enlightenment" Southern Chan school, emphasizing immediate attainment of Buddhist enlightenment. His teachings are preserved in the influential text, the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch.

Zhu Xi, also known as Chu Hsi, was a prominent figure during the Southern Song dynasty in China. He was a versatile scholar, excelling in calligraphy, history, philosophy, poetry, and politics. Zhu's influence on Neo-Confucianism was profound, reshaping Chinese philosophy and worldview. He was involved in government service, authored numerous books, and mentored many students. Zhu's contributions include editing the Four Books, advocating for the investigation of things, and promoting meditation for self-cultivation. His metaphysical theories on principle and vital force furthered the teachings of his predecessors.

Zhuang Zhou was an influential Chinese philosopher during the Warring States period. He is credited with writing the Zhuangzi, a foundational text of Taoism. His professional life revolved around philosophical discourse and writing, contributing to the development of Chinese philosophy. Zhuang Zhou's work, alongside the Tao Te Ching, played a significant role in shaping Taoist thought and practices. His teachings and writings continue to inspire generations of scholars and practitioners seeking wisdom and understanding in the realms of philosophy and spirituality.

Mozi was a Chinese philosopher, logician, and essayist who founded the school of Mohism during the Hundred Schools of Thought period. He emphasized universal love, social order, the will of heaven, sharing, and honoring the worthy. Mozi's philosophy stood in opposition to Confucianism and Daoism. Mohism was actively practiced in many states during the Warring States period but declined under the legalist Qin dynasty. Mozi's teachings faced further challenges when Confucianism became dominant during the Han dynasty, leading to the eventual disappearance of Mohism.

Wang Chongyang was a prominent Chinese philosopher and poet, known for his role as a Taoist master and co-founder of the Quanzhen School during the 12th century Jin dynasty. He was recognized as one of the Five Northern Patriarchs of Quanzhen, highlighting his significant influence in Taoist teachings. Wang Chongyang's professional life was characterized by his dedication to spreading Taoist principles and guiding followers in the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. His legacy continues to be celebrated in both historical texts and wuxia fiction.

Ban Zhao was a renowned Chinese historian, philosopher, and politician. She made significant contributions by completing her brother's work on the history of the Western Han, the Book of Han, becoming the first known female Chinese historian. She authored Lessons for Women, a highly influential work on women's conduct, and engaged in various literary pursuits such as writing poems, argumentations, commentaries, and essays. Ban Zhao was celebrated as China's most famous female scholar and was recognized for her expertise in astronomy and mathematics.

Han Fei, a Chinese Legalist philosopher and statesman from the state of Han, is renowned as the leading figure of Legalism through the Han Feizi anthology. His work, often likened to Niccolò Machiavelli's, emphasized the importance of laws, administrative techniques, and the concept of holding outcomes accountable to speech. Despite facing opposition from the Han dynasty, Han Fei's political theories and the Legalist school continued to influence subsequent Chinese dynasties. His integration of predecessors' methodologies, including the 'two handles' system and wu wei, aimed at achieving firm control over the state.

Wang Anshi was a prominent figure during the Song dynasty in China, known for his roles as a philosopher, economist, poet, and politician. As chancellor, he implemented significant socioeconomic reforms called the New Policies, which aimed to address various issues in society. His reforms encompassed economic changes such as increasing currency circulation and breaking up monopolies, as well as military and government reforms focusing on education and governance practices. Despite initial success, Wang Anshi's policies eventually led to his falling out of favor with the emperor.

Zhang Sanfeng is a legendary Chinese Taoist figure credited with the invention of tai chi, although some sources suggest that earlier versions of the practice existed before his time. He is said to have attained immortality, adding to his mystique. Zhang Sanfeng's professional life is shrouded in myth and folklore, with tales of his wisdom, mastery of martial arts, and spiritual achievements. He remains a significant figure in Chinese culture and martial arts history, inspiring many to follow the path of Taoism and tai chi.

Dong Zhongshu was a prominent Chinese philosopher, politician, and writer during the Han dynasty. He played a key role in advocating for Confucianism as the official ideology of the Chinese imperial state, emphasizing heaven worship over traditional practices. Despite facing opposition, he gained significant influence in the imperial court and his teachings continued to be transmitted even after being banished to the Chancellery of Weifang. Dong Zhongshu's professional life was marked by his dedication to promoting Confucian principles and shaping the political landscape of his time.

Ge Hong was a multifaceted figure during the Eastern Jin dynasty, excelling in various fields such as linguistics, philosophy, medicine, politics, and writing. He authored significant works like Essays on Chinese Characters and the Baopuzi, showcasing his expertise in these areas. Ge Hong's contributions to traditional Chinese medicine were notable, as he pioneered the practice of first aid. His professional life was characterized by a commitment to simplicity, core values, and a focus on knowledge and service that influenced subsequent generations.

Cai Yuanpei was a prominent Chinese philosopher and politician known for his significant contributions to education reform and modern Chinese education. He served as the president of Peking University and was the founder of the Academia Sinica. Cai was recognized for his critical analysis of Chinese culture, blending Chinese and Western ideologies, including anarchism. He actively participated in the New Culture and May Fourth Movements, as well as the feminist movement. His diverse works encompassed topics such as aesthetic education, politics, and educational reform.

Hu Hanmin was a Chinese philosopher and politician who played a significant role in the early conservative right-wing faction of the Kuomintang during revolutionary China. He was a key figure in the Chinese Revolutionary Alliance and played important roles in various armed revolutions and in the founding of the Kuomintang. Hu served as Governor of Guangdong, Minister of Transport, Chief Adviser, and head of the Legislative Yuan in Nanjing. He advocated for political power to be exercised by the party and resisted Chiang Kai-shek's domination of power.

Fan Zhongyan was a Chinese military strategist, philosopher, poet, and politician of the Song dynasty. He served the central government, eventually becoming prime minister or chancellor. Fan's enduring contributions in philosophy, education, and politics have left a lasting impact. His writings are integral to Chinese literature. Known for his commitment to public service, Fan emphasized the responsibilities of scholar-officials. He was a highly respected Confucian scholar and a prominent figure in the Fan family.

Yang Zhu, also known as Yangzi, was a Chinese philosopher active during the Warring States period. He founded the philosophical school of "Yangism" and was considered an early ethical egoist alternative to Mohist and Confucian thought. His surviving ideas are primarily found in Chinese texts such as Huainanzi, Lüshi Chunqiu, Mengzi, and possibly the Liezi and Zhuangzi. Yang Zhu's recognition of self-preservation, expressed as weiwo 為我, is a key aspect of his philosophy. Despite his relative obscurity in modern times, Yang Zhu's influence was significant during his own era.

Zengzi, also known as Master Zeng, was a Chinese philosopher and disciple of Confucius. He played a significant role in transmitting orthodox Confucian traditions by teaching Zisi, the grandson of Confucius, who later became the teacher of Mencius. Zengzi is revered as one of the Four Sages of Confucianism, highlighting his importance in the Confucian tradition. Through his teachings and influence on subsequent generations, Zengzi contributed to the preservation and continuation of Confucian philosophy and principles.

Guo Xiang was a prominent Chinese scholar credited with the first and most significant revision of the text known as the Zhuangzi, a foundational Taoist philosophical work alongside the Tao Te Ching. He played a pivotal role in shaping the textual and philosophical basis of the Taoist school of thought. Guo Xiang's expertise extended to xuanxue, a philosophical movement in ancient China. His professional life was characterized by his scholarly contributions and influence on Taoist philosophy, particularly through his work on the Zhuangzi.

Feng Youlan was a prominent Chinese philosopher, historian, and writer known for his significant contributions to the study of Chinese philosophy in the modern era. He played a key role in reintroducing Chinese philosophy to academic discourse and promoting its study both in China and internationally. Feng Youlan's work, published under the name 'Fung Yu-lan' in English, has had a lasting impact on philosophical discussions, as seen in the influential writings of scholars like Wing-tsit Chan.

Zhou Dunyi was a prominent Chinese cosmologist, philosopher, and writer during the Song dynasty. His work focused on Neo-Confucian cosmology, exploring the connection between human behavior and universal forces. Emphasizing the mastery of one's spirit to align with nature, he delved into concepts such as Taiji, Wuji, yin and yang, and the wu xing. Zhou Dunyi's profound insights greatly influenced Zhu Xi, a key figure in the development of Neo-Confucianism, solidifying his legacy as a significant thinker in Chinese intellectual history.

Ji Kang, also known as Xi Kang, was a prominent figure during the Three Kingdoms period in China, recognized for his contributions as a composer, essayist, philosopher, and poet. As one of the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove, Ji Kang chose to distance himself from the turbulent political landscape of his time, focusing instead on art and refinement. His professional endeavors included writing influential works, composing music, and showcasing his talent as a skilled guqin-player. Ji Kang's legacy endures through his significant impact on Chinese culture and intellectual thought.

Zisi was a renowned Chinese philosopher who made significant contributions to Confucian thought and teachings. He dedicated his life to studying and interpreting the principles of Confucianism, emphasizing the importance of self-cultivation, ethical behavior, and harmonious relationships in society. Zisi's work focused on the cultivation of moral character, the practice of virtuous conduct, and the promotion of social harmony. His teachings influenced generations of scholars and practitioners, shaping the development of Confucian philosophy and ethics for centuries to come.

Gongsun Long, known by his courtesy name Zibing, was a Chinese philosopher and writer associated with the School of Names in ancient Chinese philosophy. He ran a school and received support from rulers during the Warring States period. Advocating peaceful conflict resolution in a martial culture, he is best known for his paradoxes, similar to those of Hui Shi, that challenge conventional thinking. His surviving works, such as the Gongsun Longzi anthology, offer insight into his philosophical contributions despite limited details known about his life.

Wang Fuzhi was a prominent figure in Chinese history as an essayist, historian, and philosopher during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. His scholarly contributions focused on Confucianism, advocating for a return to traditional values to restore social harmony in a time of political turmoil. Wang Fuzhi's works covered a wide range of topics, including political theory, ethics, and metaphysics, earning him a reputation as a leading intellectual of his time. His writings continue to influence Chinese philosophy and thought to this day.

Zou Yan was a prominent Chinese philosopher and writer during the Warring States-era. He gained recognition as the leading figure of the Yin and Yang School, also known as the School of Naturalists, within the diverse landscape of Chinese philosophy. Through his teachings and writings, Zou Yan contributed significantly to the understanding of the dynamic balance between opposing forces, such as yin and yang, and their influence on the natural world and human life. His ideas and insights continue to shape philosophical thought in China and beyond.

Cheng Yi was a Chinese classicist, essayist, philosopher, and politician of the Song Dynasty. He became a prominent figure in neo-Confucianism and was part of the Cheng–Zhu school. Cheng entered the national university and received the "presented scholar" degree. He campaigned against reformist policies, lectured the emperor on Confucianism, and made enemies due to his aggression. Cheng was banished multiple times but eventually pardoned. He was bestowed the title Wujing Boshi, and is known for the incident of two men standing in the snow to become his disciples. Cheng Yi is also associated with the rise of the cult of widow chastity.

Hui Shi, also known as Huizi, was a Chinese philosopher who lived during the Warring States period. He was a prominent figure in the School of Names (Logicians) and is renowned for his ten paradoxes concerning the relativity of time and space. Hui served as a prime minister in the state of Wei and was credited with writing a code of laws. His professional life was marked by intellectual pursuits, philosophical contributions, and political responsibilities within the state administration.

Wang Bi was a prominent Chinese philosopher and politician known for his significant contributions to Chinese philosophy. He gained recognition for his influential commentaries on the Tao Te Ching and I Ching during his brief career. These works played a crucial role in shaping the philosophical landscape of ancient China. Wang Bi's expertise in these texts solidified his reputation as a respected scholar and thinker, leaving a lasting impact on the field of philosophy in Chinese history.

Huang Zongxi was a prominent figure in Chinese history, known for his diverse professional roles. He was a naturalist, delving into the study of nature and its phenomena. As a political theorist, he contributed significant ideas and perspectives on governance. Huang Zongxi was also a philosopher, exploring various intellectual concepts and principles. Additionally, he served as a soldier, displaying his commitment to defending and serving his country. Throughout his career, Huang Zongxi made notable contributions to various fields, leaving a lasting impact on Chinese society.

Shao Yong was a Chinese cosmologist, historian, philosopher, and poet known for greatly influencing Neo-Confucianism during the Song dynasty. Despite being considered one of the most learned men of his time, he avoided governmental positions throughout his life. Instead, he focused on his intellectual pursuits and left a lasting impact through his influential treatise on cosmogony, the Huangji Jingshi (Book of supreme world ordering principles). Shao's professional life was defined by his dedication to scholarship and his significant contributions to Chinese philosophy and thought.

He Yan was a Chinese philosopher and politician during the Three Kingdoms period. He gained a reputation for intelligence and scholarship, but was criticized for arrogance and dissolute behavior. Despite being rejected for government positions by two emperors, he eventually became a minister under Cao Shuang's rule. He was executed by the Sima family after they took control of the government. He was a founder of the Daoist school of Xuanxue, synthesizing Daoism and Confucianism. His commentaries on the Daode Jing and Analects were influential in his time.

Zhang Zai was a prominent Chinese philosopher and politician known for his significant contributions to intellectual thought. He is renowned for outlining four essential ontological goals for intellectuals, emphasizing the importance of building up the manifestations of Heaven and Earth's spirit, fostering a good life for the populace, preserving the scholarship of past sages, and striving towards eternal peace. Through his work and teachings, Zhang Zai left a lasting impact on Chinese philosophy and political discourse during his time.

Lu Jiuyuan was a prominent Chinese philosopher and writer who founded the school of the universal mind, becoming the second most influential Neo-Confucian school. He was a contemporary and main rival of Zhu Xi, establishing himself as a key figure in Chinese intellectual history. Known by his honorific name in East Asia and the Western World, Lu Jiuyuan's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to philosophical thought and the development of Neo-Confucianism, leaving a lasting impact on subsequent generations of scholars and thinkers.

Lie Yukou, also known as Liezi, was a Chinese philosopher believed to have lived around 400 BCE. He is credited as the author of the Daoist text Liezi. His professional life revolved around philosophical teachings and writings, particularly in the realm of Daoism. Lie Yukou's work in compiling and articulating the principles of Daoism through the text Liezi has left a lasting impact on Chinese philosophy and continues to be studied and revered for its insights into the Daoist tradition.

Yang Xiong was a prominent figure during the Western Han dynasty, excelling in various fields such as philosophy, poetry, and politics. His philosophical writings and fu poetry compositions were highly regarded, showcasing his intellectual prowess and creativity. As a philosopher, he contributed significant works that delved into various aspects of life and society. In politics, Yang Xiong played a notable role, utilizing his knowledge and skills to engage in political affairs and influence decision-making processes during his time.

Chéng Hào was a prominent Chinese philosopher and politician during the Song dynasty. He played a crucial role in the development of Neo-Confucianism alongside his brother Cheng Yi and other scholars. His philosophy was dualistic and pantheistic, emphasizing the unity of all things. Chéng Hào held various governmental positions and passed the Imperial examinations in 1057. He established schools and promoted the importance of study in achieving sagehood. Chéng Hào's contributions to Neo-Confucianism and cosmology solidified his legacy as one of "The Six Masters of Northern Song."

Dai Zhen was a prominent Chinese philosopher of the Qing dynasty known for his contributions to mathematics, geography, phonology, and philosophy. He played a key role in editing the official encyclopedia Siku Quanshu and was a leading figure in the Han Learning school of Evidential Learning, critiquing the Neo-Confucian beliefs of the Song Learning school. Dai emphasized the importance of investigating the external world and argued against the elimination of human desire in philosophy, advocating for its role in understanding emotions and fostering empathy.

Li Ao was a renowned Chinese philosopher and prose writer during the Tang dynasty. He achieved the degree of Jinshi in 798 and served in the imperial bureaucracy at Changan. He later traveled to the southern provinces, documenting his journey in the Lainan Lu. Li held the position of Governor of East Shannan Circuit at the time of his death in Xiangyang, Hubei. He is considered the founder of one of the ten great schools of philosophy in the Tang and Song dynasties, heavily influenced by Buddhist and neo-Confucian philosophies.

Wang Chong was a prominent figure in ancient China during the Eastern Han dynasty, known for his contributions to astronomy, meteorology, natural sciences, and philosophy. His rational and naturalistic explanations of the world, detailed in his main work "Lunheng," showcased his expertise in early sciences. Wang Chong's mention of the square-pallet chain pump in Chinese history revolutionized irrigation and public works. Despite facing poverty, he dedicated his life to studying and became well-versed in Chinese classics, eventually attaining the rank of District Secretary before losing it due to his rebellious nature.

Yan Yuan was a prominent Chinese classicist, essayist, and philosopher known for founding the practical school of Confucianism. He aimed to contrast the abstract metaphysics of Neo-Confucianism by promoting pragmatism and emphasizing the Six Arts. Yan Yuan criticized Han learning for being too focused on philology and textual criticism. His ideas were further developed by his disciple Li Gong, leading to the Yan-Li school. In the 20th century, Wu Han elaborated on Yan's concept of the relationship between history and the present.

Taixu was a Buddhist modernist, activist, and thinker known for advocating the reformation and revival of Chinese Buddhism. He drew upon a wide range of eclectic domestic and foreign sources and ideologies to support his cause. Taixu's professional life was dedicated to promoting progressive ideas within Buddhism and pushing for modernization and adaptation to contemporary society. He played a significant role in shaping the direction of Chinese Buddhism during his time, leaving a lasting impact on the tradition through his innovative approaches and activism.

Liang Shuming was a prominent figure in the Rural Reconstruction Movement in late Qing dynasty and early Republican China. He was a philosopher, politician, and writer who emphasized the importance of traditional Chinese values in promoting social and economic development. Liang advocated for reforms that aimed to improve rural communities through education, agriculture, and self-governance. His ideas on moral renewal and harmonious society had a significant influence on Chinese intellectuals and policymakers during his time.

Xiong Shili was a Chinese essayist and philosopher known for his major work A New Treatise on Vijñaptimātra, a Confucian critique of the Buddhist consciousness-only theory. Widely regarded as the thinker who laid the basis for the revival of Confucianism in the 20th century, he advocated for a revival of the Confucian dao to guide the country during turbulent times. Xiong emphasized the importance of community trust and cultural awareness in navigating the clash between the West and China, influencing scholars with his views.