The Historical Significance of Zhu Xi's Doctrine of “Investigation of Things”

The doctrine of “Investigation of things” established by Zhu Xi enriched the history of Chinese philosophy,which sums up the properties of all things on earth into one-Li.Li includes not only the properties of natural things but also of human mind,thereupon Zhu Xi constructs his comprehensive philosophical system.Zhu Xi regards the doctrine of “Investigation of things” as a key to open the door of wisdom and a starting point toward “becoming a moral man and a kind king ”,therefore this system satisfies the need of the unorganized agricultural society in ancient China,and has deep influence on the formation of a strong cultural community in such a country composed of so many races. f