“经世致用”是什么意思？用英语怎么说？

根据事物实际情况，正确地对待和处理问题。本指古人治学时注重事实，以求得出正确的见解或结论。后多指依据实际情况进行思考或表达，如实、正确地对待和处理问题。

This term means handling things correctly according to realities of the situation. The term was originally used to describe the rigorous attitude of ancient Chinese scholars who paid great attention to acquiring solid facts in order to arrive at the correct understanding or conclusion. Later, it has come to mean expressing ideas or handling matters according to reality. It is a methodological principle on cognition and a fundamental principle underpinning behaviors and ethics. Basically, it calls for behaving in a practical, realistic, and honest way.

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经世致用

Study of Ancient Classics Should Meet Present Needs

Learning should contribute to good governance. Jingshi (经世) means governance of the country and society, and zhiyong (致用) refers to meeting practical needs. In the early 17th century, thinkers such as Gu Yanwu (1613-1682), Wang Fuzhi (1619-1692), Huang Zongxi (1610-1695), and Li Yong (yóng, 1627-1705) argued that scholarly studies should be geared to meet current needs. They held that while interpreting ancient classics, scholars should expound their views on the social and political issues of their day, solve practical problems, enhance governance of the country, improve people’s livelihood, and promote social reform. This view stressed the practical value of knowledge and the practical responsibilities of intellectuals. It reflects the pragmatic character of traditional Chinese intellectuals as well as their concern for the well-being of the people and eagerness to shoulder responsibility for the whole nation.

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知行合一

Unity of Knowledge and Action

This is one interpretation of the relationship between “knowledge” and “action.” Based on the concept in philosophy of the mind that “there are no li (理), or principles, outside the mind,” Wang Yangming (1472-1529) made the argument that “there is unity of knowledge and action.” He felt that it was impossible to separate an understanding of the principles underlying human relations in everyday life from the application of these principles, that these were two sides of the same thing. If there was “knowledge” in the mind, it would surely be put into practice, as “action” was the natural use of “knowledge.” If it was not applied, it could not be true “knowledge.” On the other hand, “action” would also bring about deeper knowledge. Without “knowledge,” mere unconscious or forced behavior would not constitute proper “action.”

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躬行

This term first appeared in The Analects. Gong (躬) means in person and xing (行) refers to the cultivation of morals. According to Confucianism, one should cultivate his morals in everyday life to develop personal integrity. This term embodies the view that knowledge and action should be closely integrated with each other. Confucianism is against those who fail to observe moral principles they preach themselves, emphasizing that people should always follow moral principles in their daily lives.

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集思广益

Pool Wisdom of the People

This means to work more effectively by extensively drawing on ideas and wisdom from many people. Proposed by Zhuge Liang (181-234) during the period of the Three Kingdoms, it meant that a leader should offer many opportunities for others to speak up and listen humbly to all opinions, especially those which differ from his own. He should then consider all aspects of the issue and make a correct decision. He absolutely must not think himself infallible and acts arbitrarily. Pulling wisdom of the people will keep everyone motivated and ensure success.

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