Worldly Wisdom: Confucian Teachings of the Ming Dynasty

by J. C. Cleary

Overview

The philosophical, religious, and sociopolitical teachings of Confucianism have played a central role in East Asian culture for many centuries. This book presents a selection of passages from leading Chinese thinkers of the later Ming dynasty (sixteenth-seventeenth centuries), a peak period of Confucian creativity influenced by Buddhism and Taoism. Chosen for their practical interest and universal appeal, the passages are concerned with how to develop the personality, conduct social relations, and order society. In contrast to the common misconception of Confucianism as a formalistic ideology linked to authoritarian political regimes, these passages emphasize the cultivation of spiritual qualities as a means of operating harmoniously and successfully in the world.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781570627019
Publisher:	Shambhala
Publication date:	05/01/2001
Pages:	200
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

J. C. Cleary holds a Ph.D. in East Asian Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University. He has translated several books of Zen literature, including Zen Dawn.