Zhu Xi

Zhu Xi synthesized Confucian thought with Buddhist and Daoist metaphysics, creating a rationalist system centered on principle (li) and material force (qi). He argued that moral cultivation involves investigating things to understand principle. This became the orthodox interpretation of Confucianism.

Zhu Xi compiled the Four Books (Great Learning, Doctrine of the Mean, Analects, Mencius) as the core curriculum for Confucian education. He wrote commentaries emphasizing moral self-cultivation and principle (li). These texts became the basis for civil service examinations until 1905.

Zhu Xi's teachings were banned as 'false learning' by the Song court under Emperor Ningzong. His official posts were stripped, and his followers were persecuted. The ban lasted until 1202, but Zhu Xi's philosophy later became state orthodoxy under the Yuan dynasty.