아라이 하쿠세키의 ‘일본정신’과 ‘중화’적 시선 - ‘천하유용의 학’의 행방 -

Abstract

This paper focuses on Arai Hakuseki (16571725) of the Edo period and his cultural viewpoints through the “Study of Useful Use”. Arai Hakuseki (新井白石) explored the origins of the Japanese language. He identified the Japanese mentality and spirit in the depths of the Japanese language. Based on this, Hakuseki established the identity of Japanese in his works. The Japanese identity developed in the direction of strengthening the ‘national body’ as a form of national consciousness. Hakuseki's national state and Japanese self-consciousness are clearly revealed in the attitude toward the Korean kingdom of Joseon through ‘Joseon scorn’. This view of ‘Joseon Scorn’ developed into a form of Japanese supremacism. This view of Joseon contempt developed into a Japanese-style of Chineseism as it was reinforced with a Japanese sense of superiority. Here the significant meaning behind Hakuseki's “Study of Useful Use” can be interpreted.