The Four Core Concepts in the Pre-Qin Craftsmanship Philosophy: Utility, Subtlety, Ingenuity, and Dao

Abstract

The Confucianism, Daoism, and Mohism of the Pre-Qin period all contributed to the formation of the ancient Chinese craftsmanship philosophy. The core concept of the Confucian craftsmanship philosophy is “utility,” which refers to the excellence of artifacts. The excellence of artifacts is twofold: superior functional performance and adherence to ritual propriety. The former of these two aspects of utility relates to productive efficacy, serving as a marker of technological advancement, while the latter pertains to political order, reflecting the institutional framework of the state. It is for this reason that craftsmanship occupies a revered status within Confucian culture. The core concept of the Daoist craftsmanship philosophy is “subtlety,” which represents the aesthetic manifestation of the Dao. Artisanal praxis takes Dao as its root, technique as its usage, and artistry as its aesthetic joy, hence harmonizing humanity and Heaven, and elevating such harmony to the celestial consonance of Heaven with itself. This celestial consonance constitutes ultimate attunement with Dao, from which inevitably emerges the numinous subtlety. The core concept of Mohism craftsmanship philosophy is “ingenuity.” Ingenuity arises from laws, which derive from nature. Thus, nature possesses great ingenuity. The great ingenuity in nature is unattainable by humans, but humans can strive towards the utmost, which Mozi designated as “ultimate ingenuity.” Ultimate ingenuity benefits not the rulers but the people and the world. The three doctrines share a fundamental coherence in spirit and ultimate purpose, with each having its respective emphasis. The three collectively construct the Chinese craftsmanship philosophy.

Keywords

craftsmanship philosophy / utility / subtlety / ingenuity / Dao

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Higher Education Press