Chang Tsai (1020-1077). NeoConfucian philosopher. The son of a magistrate, he became a magistrate in 1057 and in 1069 obtained a position in the imperial library. After exploring Buddhism and Taoism he returned to his native Confucianism. In his writings he emphasized the concept of yin-yang as representing fundamental aspects of the material force that preserves the balance and sustains the power in the universe. This force has various aspects or poles. He rejected the notions canvassed by Taoists and Buddhists in so far as they entailed a spiritual dimension of being, preferring to find the solution to all problems within the framework of a cosmos understood in Confucian terms, in which the principle of balance (the golden mean) is emphasized.

Geddes MacGregor, Dictionary of Religion and Philosophy, New York: Paragon House, 1989