Abstract:

This paper aims to explore the effects of the theories of Buddhism on argumentations in ancient China. By focusing on the works of Zhi Dun，Seng Zhao and Liu Xie，the author intends to reveal how Buddhism influenced argumentative essays. The works of Zhi Dun，Seng Zhao and Liu Xie represented the highest achievements of argumentations in ancient China which is referred to as Zhili，Zhaolun and Wenxin. The influence of Buddhism on argumentations is embodied in Zhili in three aspects: maverick and sensational effect，annotation and argumentation alternation，and careful and detailed analysis. The influence of Buddhism on argumentations in Zhaolun is also reflected in three aspects: innovative forms in preface and argumentation coexistence，argumentation of assuming questions and answers，and both flowery and plain language. The influence of Buddhism on argumentations embodied in Wenxin mainly displays an argumentation view of putting the minor first instead of the main part. Specifically，Wenxindiaolong achieved the congruity of argument and statement in the debating，the congruity of theory and language in form，and the congruity of various outstanding opinions and mastery of one theory in authoring.

Key words: Buddhism, argumentations in ancient China, Zhi Dun, Seng Zhao, Wenxindiaolong