An Introduction to the Theory of Xiang-Like （类象） Generation in Traditional Chinese Medicine
10.13288/j.11-2166/r.2025.02.001
- VernacularTitle:中医学类象生成论引论
- Author:
Zhong WANG
1
Author Information
1. Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine，China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences，Beijing，100700
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Xiang （象） thinking mode;
traditional Chinese medicine;
theory of Xiang-like （类象） generation;
microscopic Xiang-like theory;
syndromic Xiang-like theory;
network Xiang-like theory;
individualization
- From:
Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine
2025;66(2):109-113
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
A systematic understanding of life and health must adhere to the ideological essence of the Eastern civilization while integrating the fruitful achievements of modern civilization. Based on the examination of the Xiang-like （类象） thinking mode derived from Chinese philosophy， this paper analyzes the connotation and characteristics of Xiang-like theory in traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）， clarifying its epistemological significance and the process of generation. Furthermore， based on a comprehensive analysis of modern research progress in microscopic， syndromic and network Xiang-like theory， the key points of the theory of Xiang-like generation are proposed， including the classification， the structural elements of number，substance and sequence， and the polymorphic dynamic generation process. The theory of Xiang-like generation is the foundation of TCM's unique modern health epistemology for maintaining health. It represents a modern approach to promote the realization of clinical individualized medical goals and is an inevitable choice for integrating traditional Chinese philosophy， TCM， and modern scientific and technolo-gical achievements.
