Chinese Journal of Sociology ›› 2016, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (5): 1-35.

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Lun: The Common Basis of Chinese Thoughts and Society

ZHAI Xuewei   

  1. The School of Social and Behavioral Science, Nanjing University
  • Online:2016-09-20 Published:2016-09-20

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Abstract:

The character Lun and its meaning have been subjected to many discussions and unanswered questions. Is it part of the Chinese traditional thoughts or does it echo the framework of Chinese traditional society? What is its relevance to the modern Chinese sociological inquires? This study reviews the works of traditional Chinese thinkers and modern sociologists, especially their views on Five Lun in order to gain a sociological explanation of the character. Rooted in Chinese traditional understanding of the relationship between Heaven and Man, and between man and man, lun defines individual roles in social hierarchy and stratum. Confucianism functions to legitimize and normalize this social arrangement. By comparing modern sociological concepts of self, role, social exchange, social networks, and social stratification and inequality to the character, this paper discusses lun as a self-evident social reality and its presumptive principles in traditional society, as well as its function and adaptation in modern society. In author's opinion, Confucian ethics adhere to the social structure of traditional Chinese society, and therefore, promote harmony, stability and order. In contrast, the Western thoughts of equality and justice reject the acceptance of social reality and thus encourage progress. Through a close examination of lun, a better understanding and a new way of interpretation of the characteristics of Chinese people and society can be reached.

Key words: Five Lun, classification, social hierarchy and stratum, the pattern of difference sequence, unequal relationship