A Comparison Between Anaximeness Arche and the Wuxing in the Hongfan

Abstract

While there are numerous similarities between Chinese philosophy and Western philosophy, there are also significant differences that make them extremely distinct from each other. The views of Milesian philosopher Anaximenes and the Wuxing () in pre-Qin Chinese philosophy can be taken as examples, though they are rarely compared together. In actuality, their understandings of natural substances and how air (psyche) or Qi () changes between substances present a framework that is very comparable. But from these comparable frames, two different modes of functioning finally developed. As an illustration, this paper will contrast Wuxing in Hongfan () with arche in Anaximeness ideas. Starting with the natural materials that are present in both philosophies, this paper compares them through textual analysis. According to the definitions and orientations provided by the two philosophies, conclusions can be drawn that Wuxing emphasizes relevance and people, whereas Anaximenes concentrates on the search for the most fundamental principle and the supreme power in the universe.