Reflection on the Unificationist Theory of Education and Confucianism

ABSTRACT

This paper points out the weak point of the theory of Unificationist education and investigates possibilities to make up for it. Current theory of Unificationist education does not have the way to cleanse fallen character. In order to solve the problem, I discuss activation of the Confucianism element which Unificationism had. First, I examine the studies about the relationship between Unificationism and Confucianism, and watch the characteristics of Unificationism. Second, I search the possibility of expansion of the theory of Unificationist education, based on commonalities of Unificationism and Confucianism. It concludes as follows: First, Unificationism and Confucianism teach ethics which is suitable for the Heavenly way(天道), and emphasize self-cultivation(修養) and the necessity of education. Second, Unificationism accepted the filial piety education of the Pre-Chin Confucianism(先秦儒敎). Unificationists consider filial piety human duty for God as well as duty for one’s parents. The idea of the Heavenly principle and human desire of Sung Confucianism(性理學) are much the same with the idea of original nature and fallen nature of Unificationism. therefore, it is necessary for Unificationists to expand the theory of Unificationist education accepting the theory of self-cultivation of Sung Confucianism. Third, Unificationism and Confucianism are family-centered. If Unificationist search the Confucian family-centered thinking, it will be helpful to expand the theory of Unificationist education.