Feng Youlan Quotes
Feng Youlan was a Chinese philosopher and one of the most influential figures in the modern reception of Chinese philosophy. He earned his doctorate at Columbia under John Dewey and produced the two-volume History of Chinese Philosophy, which long served as the standard introduction to its subject in both Chinese and English. The quotes below are attributed to Feng Youlan, organized by topic.
Feng Youlan on Knowledge
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Attributed to Feng Youlan:
“The best part of philosophy is its uselessness.”
Feng Youlan on Life
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Attributed to Feng Youlan:
“Philosophy is the systematic, reflective thinking on life.”
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Attributed to Feng Youlan:
“To live in the world is also to live above the world.”
Feng Youlan on Mind
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Attributed to Feng Youlan:
“The function of philosophy is the elevation of mind.”
Feng Youlan on Virtue
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Attributed to Feng Youlan:
“What is greatest in human life is to be a sage.”