An Introduction to Confucianism

by Xinzhong Yao

Overview

Taking into account the long history and wide range of Confucian Studies, this book introduces Confucianism - initiated in China by Confucius (551 BC–479 BC) - primarily as a philosophical and religious tradition. It pays attention to Confucianism in both the West and the East, focussing on the tradition's doctrines, schools, rituals, sacred places and terminology, but also stressing the adaptations, transformations and new thinking taking place in modern times. Xinzhong Yao presents Confucianism as a tradition with many dimensions and as an ancient tradition with contemporary appeal. This gives the reader a richer and clearer view of how Confucianism functioned in the past and of what it means in the present. A Chinese scholar based in the West, he draws together the many strands of Confucianism in a style accessible to students, teachers, and general readers interested in one of the world's major religious traditions.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521643122
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	02/13/2000
Series:	Introduction to Religion
Pages:	372
Product dimensions:	6.34(w) x 9.29(h) x 1.18(d)
Lexile:	1450L (what's this?)

Table of Contents

Preface; List of illustrations; Confucianism in history: chronological table; Introduction: Confucian studies East and West; 1. Confucianism, Confucius and Confucian classics; 2. Evolution and transformation - a historical perspective; 3. The way of Confucianism; 4. Ritual and religious practice; 5. Confucianism and its modern relevance; Bibliography; Glossary; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...solid and well-organized book..." Religious Studies Review

From the Publisher