Overview
A methodology for handling conflicting or uncertain historical records, based on the principle of transmitting doubts rather than forcing conclusions.
Steps
- Gather all available sources - Collect 谍记 (genealogical records), 历谱谍 (chronological tables), and other documentary evidence
- Cross-reference accounts - Compare different versions of the same events across multiple texts
- Identify discrepancies - Note where sources contradict each other (乖异 - points of divergence)
- Assess completeness - Determine if records have 年月 (dates) or are 略 (incomplete/summary only)
- Apply the doubt principle - When evidence is insufficient or conflicting: 疑则传疑 (transmit the doubt as doubt)
- Document uncertainty - Record conflicting accounts side by side rather than choosing one arbitrarily
Decision Points
- If sources agree and are complete: proceed with confidence