中国原始时代社会观念的萌生及发展 | 《财经》书摘

Core Concept - The article explores the emergence and development of social concepts in primitive times, particularly focusing on the origin of the concept of deities and its relationship with primitive thinking [2][3]. Group 1: Social Concepts in Primitive Times - The basic characteristic of social concepts in primitive times can be described as a "mixing of humans and deities," indicating that people had not yet distinguished themselves from nature [3][4]. - The notion of "mixing" reflects a stage where human consciousness was still intertwined with natural elements, suggesting that the concept of a distinct "human" identity had not fully developed [3][4]. Group 2: The Concept of Deities - The term "deity" in ancient Chinese thought encompasses various meanings, but primarily refers to "spirits" that people worship [2]. - Evidence from oracle bones and reliable documents from the Shang Dynasty indicates that the concept of "deity" was already present, with ancestors being revered as deities [2]. Group 3: Examples from Ancient Texts - The "Shan Hai Jing" (Classic of Mountains and Seas) contains numerous examples of hybrid creatures, such as beings with human and animal features, which reflect the primitive mindset of mixing human and animal traits [6][8]. - These hybrid beings often possess human-like abilities or characteristics, illustrating the primitive belief in the interconnectedness of humans and nature [9][10]. Group 4: Implications of Primitive Thinking - The primitive thinking characterized by "mixing" and "interpenetration" suggests that early humans viewed themselves as part of a larger natural world, lacking the clear boundaries that define modern thought [5][10]. - This blending of identities is not unique to Chinese culture but can be observed in various indigenous cultures worldwide, indicating a universal aspect of primitive thought [8][9].