Silhak

Silhak, also known as Practical Learning or the School of Practical Matters, was a significant intellectual movement in Korea during the Joseon Dynasty. It emerged in the 17th century and reached its peak in the 18th and 19th centuries. Silhak scholars criticized the dominant Neo-Confucianism of the time, which they felt had become too abstract and divorced from the practical realities of governing and improving society. They advocated for a return to the original spirit of Confucianism, emphasizing the importance of tangible results and real-world application.

The Silhak movement encompassed a wide range of intellectual pursuits. Scholars focused on fields such as agriculture, economics, law, technology, and geography. They sought to reform governmental administration, improve land distribution, and promote economic development. Many Silhak thinkers also delved into the study of Korean history and language, challenging Sinocentric perspectives and emphasizing the uniqueness of Korean culture and identity. Prominent figures associated with Silhak include Jeong Yak-yong, considered one of its greatest proponents, and Yi Ik.

The influence of Silhak was profound. It fostered a critical spirit and a desire for reform that contributed to social and political changes in the later Joseon period. While it did not always lead to immediate widespread reform, the ideas generated by Silhak scholars laid the groundwork for many of the modernization efforts that followed. The movement's emphasis on practical knowledge and societal betterment left a lasting legacy on Korean intellectual history.