Confucianism and Buddhism in Dialogue: A Historical and Philosophical Survey
摘要
This chapter traces the historical trajectory of Confucian–Buddhist interaction in China, beginning with Buddhism’s initial transmission and the ensuing ideological tensions with native Confucianism. It highlights the gradual development of Confucian–Buddhist syncretism (儒佛融合), including the Tang dynasty’s advocacy of the “Unity of the Three Teachings” (三敎一致論), the Song dynasty’s Confucianization of Buddhism, and the philosophical exchanges centering on theories of mind and nature (心性論). In modern times, confronted with Western imperialism and intellectual crises, this syncretism evolved into major reformist movements: Neo–Confucianism (新儒學) and Humanistic Buddhism (人間佛敎), both aiming to integrate their traditions for national revitalization. The chapter argues that the Confucian–Buddhist dialogue is a crucial lens through which to understand the formation of Chinese philosophical identity, past and present.