早期中国研究中的文明阶段论评析

A Review of the Stage Theory of Civilization in Early China Studies

文明论的整体框架涵盖文明阶段论与文明类型论等方面。有关早期中国文明的演变历程和阶段划分,古说有以三代为中心的三阶段说和皇帝王霸四阶段说,今说包括从三阶段到六阶段的不同分法。通过对参哲学、思想史领域之说和考古学、人类学领域之说,可见古今诸说的异同和特色。关键在于,保持“三代”作为一个完整的文明阶段论概念。与此相对,巫文化延续性、殷周之际变革的意义更适合置于文明类型论的背景来看。文明阶段论的划分标准至少包括两点:精神层面(天人关系)和制度层面(政教制度)。对早期中国文明及其各基本阶段的系统考察,有助于理解中国之为中国、文明之为文明。

The overall framework of civilization theory covers aspects of the stage theory of civilization and the typology of civilization.With regard to the evolution of early Chinese civilization and the division of its stages,there are three stages centred on three dynasties and four stages of the Emperor's kingship in ancient times,while today's theory includes different divisions ranging from the three stages to the six stages.The differences,similarities and characteristics of the ancient and modern theories can be seen by examining the theories of philosophy,history of thought,archaeology,and anthropology.It is crucial to maintain the"three dynasties"as a complete concept of the stage theory of civilization.In contrast,the significance of the cultural continuity of Wu and the changes at the time of Yin and Zhou are more appropriately viewed in the context of a typology of civilization.The criteria for dividing the stage theory of civilization include at least two points:the spiritual level(the relationship between heaven and man)and the institutional level(the system of government and religion).A systematic examination of early Chinese civilization and its basic stages will help to understand China and its civilization.