The Wang–Buwang Sequence and Positive Forgetting in Early Confucian Texts

This study investigates the roles of wang (忘, forgetting) and buwang (不忘, non-forgetting) in early Confucian texts, emphasizing their interdependence within a yin–yang framework. Rather than signifying total erasure, for the purposes of the mnemic process, wang functions as a selective and creative mode, aiding cognitive refinement by withdrawing content considered secondary or extraneous. Primarily through close textual analysis of the Analects (Lunyu 論語), Mengzi (孟子), and Xunzi (荀子), this study shows how wang and buwang operate relationally, avoiding polar extremes in favor of a dynamic equilibrium. Conceptually, I argue that these terms are more accurately aligned with suspended and attentive modes of awareness, respectively. Tracing their pattern across these sources reveals the affirmative role of wang in optimizing memory, distancing the Confucian tradition from the notion of oblivion and offering a foundational perspective for future explorations of early Chinese memory-related discussions.