Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No. 9, 2024

On the Duality of Primitive Thinking

(Abstract)

Wang Zhenzhong

Primitive thinking is characterized by a duality where logical thinking intersects and coexists with pre-logical thinking. This duality is evident in various artifacts and practices from different eras, such as the composite tools and hunting activities of the Paleolithic era, as well as the decorated pottery, paintings, sculptures, jade patterns, and totem worship of the Neolithic era. Primitive thinking is found within the minds of early humans and is reflected in their art, activities, myths, and ancient legends. Each generation enhances wisdom and knowledge through a cycle of “practice—learning—re-practice—re-learning” in their social production and daily life. Modern thinking in both Eastern and Western contexts shows tendencies towards different orientations: the former is often characterized by “intuitive, integrative, dialectical, and imagistic thinking,” while the latter is characterized by “rational, conceptual, analytical, and logical thinking.” Ideal creative thinking should represent an organic combination of the two orientations.