Ng Yu-Kwan’s “Phenomenology of Pure Vitality” is a philosophical framework that seeks to transcend traditional dualities, such as the distinction between essence and function, by emphasizing the concept of “pure vitality” as the fundamental principle of reality. This approach builds upon and critiques earlier metaphysical systems, notably Xiong Shili’s “New Doctrine of Consciousness-Only” (新唯識論), aiming to establish a more dynamic and unified understanding of existence.
Core Concepts:
1. Pure Vitality (純粹力動): Ng posits that pure vitality is an ever-active, transcendent force that constitutes the essence of all phenomena. Unlike traditional metaphysical notions that separate essence (體) and function (用), pure vitality embodies both simultaneously, rendering such distinctions unnecessary. This perspective challenges the “non-duality of essence and function” prevalent in contemporary Neo-Confucian thought.
2. Manifestation of Phenomena: Pure vitality, in its dynamic activity, can condense, descend, and differentiate, leading to the apparent manifestation of the phenomenal world. This process suggests that the observable universe is a transient expression of this underlying pure vitality.
3. Subjective Experience and Wisdom: On the subjective level, pure vitality manifests as “intuitive wisdom” (睿智的直覺). Through self-reflection, this intuitive wisdom can transform into intellect, enabling individuals to comprehend and engage with the phenomenal world. By reversing this process—turning intellect back into intuitive wisdom—one can perceive that the phenomenal world is merely a provisional manifestation of pure vitality, leading to a state of non-attachment.
4. Cultural and Ethical Implications: Recognizing the phenomenal world as an expression of pure vitality provides a foundation for realizing cultural values, including knowledge, morality, art, and religion. This realization encourages individuals to engage with the world creatively and ethically, grounded in the understanding of pure vitality as the source of all expressions.
Ng’s phenomenology offers a novel metaphysical system that emphasizes the dynamic and unified nature of reality, challenging traditional dualistic frameworks and providing a basis for cultural and ethical engagement.
