• Writer：Jerry Wang

A Theory of Fudo and Oceanic Confucianism: Reflections on Taiwan’s Contemporary Situation

The ongoing tension between China and Taiwan remains a pressing issue, yet much of the scholarly focus tends to center on its outcomes rather than its root causes. Professor Rur-Bin Yang, a leading intellectual historian with a Ph.D. from National Taiwan University, takes a different approach. Drawing on historical context and the Fudo theory of Watsuji Tetsuro, Professor Yang offers a nuanced analysis of the tensions, bringing fresh insights into Taiwan’s distinct historical trajectory.

Taiwan Island History and the Theory of Fudo

The foundational concept of Taiwan Island history, as developed by Yung-Ho Tsao, provides a critical framework for understanding Taiwan’s unique historical development. Unlike China’s relatively continuous and unified historical narrative, Taiwan’s history is characterized by fragmentation and diversity. Tsao’s theory suggests that scholars should analyze Taiwan’s past from the perspectives of its people and the geographical and cultural context of the island itself, rather than focusing exclusively on political events. This localized approach offers a richer understanding of Taiwan’s evolving social and political authority, shedding light on the complexities of its contemporary identity.

Complementing this is the theory of Fudo, which merges Hegelian dialectics with localized environmental and cultural perspectives. This theory explores how climate and geography shape human activity, culture, and national identity. By integrating Taiwan Island history with the theory of Fudo, scholars can uncover deeper connections between Taiwan’s environment, historical development, and its modern sociopolitical landscape. Together, these theories form a robust foundation for understanding Taiwan’s history as a distinct and evolving narrative.

Oceanic Confucianism: A Unique Philosophical Tradition

Adding to these frameworks, Professor Yang introduces the concept of Oceanic Confucianism, a branch of Confucian thought that evolved outside mainland China, particularly in Taiwan. First articulated by Nianfeng Chiang, Oceanic Confucianism traces its roots to democratic ideas that emerged during the late Ming Dynasty. These ideas continued to develop and were further refined in Taiwan’s unique cultural and intellectual context.

Oceanic Confucianism reflects Taiwan’s maritime culture and its openness to external influences, distinguishing it from traditional Confucianism rooted in the agrarian traditions of mainland China. Over time, it has become a defining element of Taiwan’s intellectual history, embodying values such as pluralism, adaptability, and democratic thought. Professor Yang argues that Oceanic Confucianism not only complements Taiwan Island history and the theory of clime but also serves as a philosophical lens for understanding Taiwan’s modern identity. It underscores the island’s capacity to synthesize diverse influences while maintaining a distinct cultural identity.

Toward a Nuanced Understanding of Taiwan’s Historical and Intellectual Identity

Professor Yang’s work demonstrates that a special intellectual interpretation built upon the interplay of Taiwan Island history, the theory of Fudo, and Oceanic Confucianism. These frameworks highlight Taiwan’s distinctiveness from China and other parts of the world, offering a comprehensive approach to analyzing its current situation. Yang’s perspective challenges the tendency to view Taiwan solely through the lens of political events, advocating instead for a broader and more integrative understanding. By analyzing Taiwan’s history through these theories, Professor Yang emphasizes the importance of contextualizing Taiwan’s present tensions within its unique historical and cultural development.

Conclusion: A Framework for Resolution and Reconciliation

Professor Yang’s integrative approach offers valuable tools for addressing the ongoing China-Taiwan crisis. By situating the conflict within Taiwan’s unique historical and intellectual frameworks, he encourages a shift away from viewing the situation as merely a geopolitical issue. Instead, he advocates for understanding it as the culmination of Taiwan’s historical, environmental, and philosophical evolution.
This perspective not only enriches the academic study of Taiwan but also provides a pathway for fostering dialogue and reconciliation. As scholars and policymakers alike continue to grapple with the complexities of the China-Taiwan relationship, Professor Yang’s work stands as a vital contribution, reminding us of the importance of understanding history, geography, and philosophy as interconnected forces shaping the present and future. His lecture organized by the History Department at NTNU drew over 100 scholars and students and sparked significant interest in applying these theories to future research on Taiwan’s history. Participants lauded his ability to merge theoretical rigor with practical relevance, making his work an important contribution for studies on Taiwan’s intellectual and political identity.