Seongho Yi Ik's Emotional Spectrum in the Four-Seven Theory

Abstract: This article aims to examine the characteristics of the emotional spectrum within Seongho Yi Ik's Four-Seven theory through several notable results obtained using digital methodologies, especially in comparison to the perspectives of Toegye Yi Hwang and Yulgok Yi Yi. While conventional approaches focused on defininghuman emotions through the framework of the Four Beginnings and the Seven Emotions and examining their theoretical coherence with metaphysical concepts of li and qi , Seongho's focus is more on elucidating real-world issues. These issues include the origins and development of emotions, the changes in emotions according to circumstances, and the distinction between moral emotions and everyday feelings. By comparing the theories of these three scholars through digital methodologies, we can not only grasp the unique characteristics of Seongho's Four-Seven theory but also reinterpret the Four Beginnings and the Seven Emotions as emotions that can be experienced and understood within lived reality.