I always wonder, subconsciously, that ancient Chinese philosophers created their doctrines in subtle and perhaps abstract ways.
On the other hand, however, western philosophers tended to be more straightforward.
Or perhaps, words in Chinese language carry multiple folded meanings and therefore hinder the power of expression.
格物，for example, how would one starts to practice“格”？I would dare to say that most Chinese people have the least idea about this concept.
And why would one try to 格 a lifeless object?
I would never have an answer until I read Socrates’ renowned statement “The unexamined life is not worth living”.
Yes, 格means to exam, to ponder, to think, to reflect and to analyze.
If you never 格 your life, you are no better off than animals.
Thus, the better translation of The unexamined life is not worth living would be:
未格之人生，浑浑噩噩。
Socrates sacrificed his own life to practice his doctrine.
Salute!
