The founder of the Yin-Yang school was Zou Yan (about 324 BC - 250 BC), a native of Qi State at the end of the Warring States Period. He was a key figure in systematically combining the Yin-Yang theory with the Five Elements theory to form the "Yin-Yang Five Elements Theory".
Its core ideas and contributions are as follows:
1. Establishing the "Theory of the End and Beginning of the Five Virtues": This is the core theory of Zou Yan. He believed that the operation and replacement of the five basic substances (the five virtues) of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth were the fundamental forces that determined the rise and fall of dynasties and historical changes. Each dynasty corresponded to a "virtue". When the old virtues declined, new virtues would take their place in accordance with God's will. This theory became an important basis for the legitimacy of dynasty changes in later generations.
2. Proposed the "Great Nine States Theory": In terms of geography, he broke the then-concept that "China is the world" and believed that China ("Chixian Shenzhou") was only one of the eighty-one states in the world, showing a broad geographical vision that transcended the times.
3. Promote the politicization of doctrine: Zou Yan's doctrine is not simply philosophical speculation, but closely integrated with politics, providing theoretical support for the monarchs of various countries at that time to pursue the legitimacy of rule and long-term peace and stability. Therefore, at the end of the Warring States Period, it was highly valued by princes of various countries.
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