This book presents a concise, balanced overview of China’s oldest and most revered philosophy. In clear, straightforward language, Paul R. Goldin explores how Confucianism was conceived and molded by its earliest masters, discusses its main tenets, and considers its history and relevance for the modern world. Goldin guides readers through the philosophies of the three major classical Confucians—Confucius, Mencius, and Xunzi—as well as two short anonymous treatises, the “Great Learning” and the “Classic of Filial Piety.” He also discusses some of the main Neo-Confucian philosophers and outlines transformations Confucianism has undergone in the past century.
Confucianism
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Reviews
“Short and substantial, lucid and learned, faithful and insightful, resourceful and relevant, as well as sympathetic and critical. . . . Taking into consideration the size of the book, the crisp prose, the solid scholarship, the reliable exposition, the philosophical rigor, and the insightful expositions, it can indeed be regarded as the best introduction to Confucianism.”—Philosophical Review
“A thoughtful overview of China's oldest and most revered philosophy.”—Spirituality & Practice
"Lively, concise, and erudite. . . . Goldin’s spirited exposition is likely to provide much that is good—and “chewable”—for the reader."—Manyul Im Dao