Abstract: Yi Ik (李瀷: 1681~1763) extends the Four-Seven theory beyond speculative discourse. He synthesizes classical ideals of moral emotions with their everyday fluctuations, offering an empiricist perspective on their realization in daily life. This view differentiates Seongho's theory of emotions from Zhu Xi's (朱熹: 1130~1200) schematic interpretation. Challenging the common assumption that Joseon Confucians faithfully followed Zhu Xi, Seongho explores the practical implications of each term constituting the Four Beginnings in contrast to Zhu Xi's interpretation. Furthermore, he expands on the meanings of Seven Emotions—a theme Zhu Xi rarely addressed—by examining their intersection and intertwining of the Four Beginnings. Seongho shifts focus from textual hermeneutics and metaphysical abstraction to the lived experience of emotions, proposing that moral emotions arise through direct engagement with daily emotional realities. This offers a practical approach to moral cultivation, bridging the divide between theoretical concepts and tangible reality.
So-jeong Park (Thu,) studied this question.