The Integration of Confucian Tradition and Western Thought—Shen Jiaben’s Legal Philosophical Perspective

Abstract

In today's era of globalization, the exchange and integration of different cultures has become an unstoppable trend. As an important part of traditional Chinese culture, Confucianism has a long history and far-reaching influence. However, with the development of modern society, Western thought is also gradually playing an important role in various fields. Against this background, exploring the integration of Confucian tradition and Western thought has become a topic of great interest. This paper examines the basic features of Confucian tradition and Western thought, and how Shen Jiaben's successful fusion of the two in his legal reforms had a positive impact on the development of the Chinese legal system. Confucianism focuses on family ethics and propriety and emphasizes moral cultivation, while Western thought stresses individualism, freedom, and the rule of law. By blending the best of both, Shen Jiaben put forward the idea of lighter and more prudent punishment, which promoted the innovation and reform of the Chinese legal system.