漱石の「道義上の個人主義」

――進化論的言説とウィリアム・ジェイムズ思想の観点から――

抄録

Natsume Sōseki's “ethical individualism" implies respect for the individuality of others. Throughout his life, the question of how we can enlarge the scope of interest for others has been one of his most crucial concerns. This paper attempts to elucidate how this “ethical individualism" was developed through an encounter with contemporary theories.

First, an examination of Sōseki's notes shows that evolutionary theories are essential for this view. It is especially important to consider Mind in Evolution, written by British sociologist Leonard Trelawny Hobhouse, as it illustrates how useful broadening our perspective is for survival. After reading the oeuvre, Sōseki began to contend that we need to broaden our scope of interest.

Furthermore, it is essential to consider Sōseki's view of literature. He preferred to talk about literature in terms of evolution. He believed that literature has to contribute to the progress of humankind; enlarging the scope of interest for others is one of the ideals of literature.

Finally, this paper illustrates how William James's masterpiece, A Pluralistic Universe, sheds new light on “ethical individualism." Sōseki maintained that since this view is, after all, an individualism, it causes a feeling of “loneliness." James's view suggests a good solution to this situation. When we focus on the vocabulary Sōseki used in his later years to explain how we should treat each other, it becomes clear that he had adopted James's philosophy.