Abstract

Above, we have discussed two topics in the intellectual world of the Warring States period: One concerns space and time in the cosmos, the other concerns social order and morality. These two topics deal with the environment and backdrop of an individual's existence. Put differently, the "individual" is not made prominent in these topics, while the environment and setting in which he existed, and thus the vast cosmos and complex society, have formed the core of the discussions with the "individual" residing in their center, as background. However, in this topic concerning individual existence, "man" truly becomes the center of discussion.