On Different Rational Qualities in Han Yu and Liu Zongyuan's Views on "Tao" Doctrine as Reflected in Their Writings

Han Yu firmly held that 'Books not of Xia, Shang, Zhou and Han Dynasties, I don't read; Aspirations not ofsages, I don't have', which restrained his ideological source. Consequently, he pondered problems within the limits of traditionaldrifucian set up. So his exposition of the Tao could not surpass the limitations set by early Confucian thinking. On the cont-rary, Liu Zongyuan advocated absorbing and containing all thoughts besides Confucianism as its main source. In fact, LiuZongyuan intended to set up a new Confucian system, which became a source for his successive glittering thoughts. Due to hisconservatism, Han Yu lacked doubt for Confucian books and records and took their ideas as basis of his argument without dis-crmination. There are many logical errors in his writings. However, to challenge traditional Confucianism, Liu Zongyuan had tomake his argument convincing and proof irrefutable. Therefore, Liu Zong Yuan's writings are far superior to Han Yu's if judgedin respect of rational quality.