Fung Yu-lan's Moderation Concept

Modem philosophor Feng Youlan (冯友兰) adopts Zhongyong (中庸) into his study field when inheriting the Z,/ Study of Song Dynasty and Ming Dynasty (宋明理 学) . Therefore Mr. Feng builds up his core system of "Ji Gao Ming Er Dao Zhong Yong" (极高明而道中庸) and adds new implications for The Zhongyong Idea in Modern China.In understanding and explaining Zhongyong, Mr. Feng inherits the traditions of Cheng Zhu Li Study (程朱理学) . By explaining the classical works, he grasps the original meanings of the authors. Based on this, he absorbs methodology from western philosophy and explains it in his own way. He understands Zhong (40 from its general meaning, and elucidates it with Shizhong (时中) 40 and Zhonghe (中�'�) He thinks that Yong (庸) means common or normal, also carrying the meaning of being very important. In his explanations on the definition of Zhongyong, he apparently applies new, untraditional methods that are different from the traditional Jing Study (经学) . It has something to do with his acceptance of methods from western Logical Realism.After explaining Zhongyong from etymology, Mr. Feng uncovers deep meanings underlying this word from notions. His special contribution is perceived in placing ways of analyzing and thinking in the first place, while still follows Chinese Ancient way of studying Zhongyong from ethical morality and axiology. In morality, Mr. Feng thinks that Zhong is "moral natural method" and derives from "principles stipulated naturally by some society". Thus he elevates Zhongyong to metaphysical level, and connects it with the highest concept Li in his system. He also explores Zhongyong from views on human life.Feng Youlan adopts Zhongyong Idea into his theory system. He gives clues to thefunction and approach of Zhongyong by uniting and integrating Gaoming (高明) and Riyong (日用). And he analyzes where the Ji Gaoming (极高明) is embodied in his theory of four Jingjie (境界) . Also he explores the way to realize Ji Gaoming in the Dao Zhongyong level.The significance of Feng Youlan lies in: 1) tries to solve the conflict between ancient times and present-day and China and the west; 2) applying logic analysis to Chinese philosophy; 3) uniting metaphysical theory and practice. There are still limitations and problems to be solved.