transmit without creating; uncritical transmission
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesverb
to transmit (the teachings of the ancients) without creating; to paraphrase others' ideas without adding one's own original insights
Originating from Confucius (Analects 7.1: "述而不作，信而好古"), this term describes an attitude of preserving and transmitting traditional knowledge without innovation. In modern usage, it can be neutral when describing faithful transmission of classics, or mildly critical when referring to lack of originality in academic work.
Confucius advocated transmitting tradition without innovating, respecting ancient cultural heritage.
When writing a thesis, one cannot simply paraphrase others without adding original ideas; you must have your own insights.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
His articles always merely transmit others' ideas without creating anything new, lacking originality.
Although this scholar transmitted without innovating, he made great contributions to the collation of ancient texts.