中国古代息讼制度的三重维度及其现代启示

The Triple Dimension of the Lawsuit Restraint System in Ancient China and Its Modern Revelation

息讼制度是中国古代社会制度的重要文化遗产,在维护社会和谐中发挥着独特作用。考察中国古代息讼制度,儒家的礼之用、和为贵,道家的无为而治,法家的定纷止争是其理论来源;先秦时期的式微与萌芽、秦汉时期的形成与确立、魏晋南北朝至隋唐时期的成熟与发展、宋元明清时期的完备与繁荣是其历史嬗变图景;防范争讼、依礼息讼、调解止讼是其实践运行方式;践行“以和为贵”的理念,把基本道德规范转化为法律规范,完善中国特色多元纠纷解决机制是其蕴含的现代启示。

The lawsuit restraint system is a significant cultural heritage of the ancient Chinese social system,playing a unique role in maintaining social harmony.When examining the lawsuit restraint system in ancient China,the theoretical resources of Confucianism involve the use of etiquette and the value of harmony,Taoism emphasizes the rule of inaction,and Legalism focuses on the settlement and cessation of disputes.Its historical evolution encompasses its decline and resurgence during the pre-Qin period,formation and establishment during the Qin-Han period,maturity and development during the Wei,Jin,Southern and Northern Dynasties,the Sui and Tang periods,and completion and prosperity during the Song,Yuan,Ming,and Qing periods.The prevention of litigation,settlement based on etiquette,and resolution through mediation are the modes of its practice and operation.Practicing the concept of“peace is precious”,transforming basic moral norms into legal norms,and perfecting the multi-dispute resolution mechanism with Chinese characteristics provide modern inspirations.