Confucius & Confucianism: the essentials : Confucius and Confucianism

"This is an excellent survey of the history of Confucianism, incorporating philosophical issues and development and the received histories of key figures in the tradition." Jennifer L. Oldstone-Moore, Wittenberg University.

"Anyone who comes out of a course based on this book will have not simply an informed sense of Confucius and his legacy but also a critical sense of where that legacy is open to dispute or re-evaluation." T. H. Barrett, University of London.

This lively and highly accessible introduction provides a comprehensive account of the life, teachings of Confucius, and the development of Confucian thought from ancient times to the present day.

The book skillfully lays out and explores the philosophical and religious questions at the heart of Confucius' thought. These are carefully placed in the context of Chinese society, demonstrating how Confucius responded to the conflicts and pressures of his time and offered solutions to society's problems. After Confucius' death, his followers expanded and reinterpreted his ideas - a process that continued throughout Chinese history and has developed into the "New Confucianism" of today. The book also considers the legacy of Confucian thought, tracing his influential ideas and their proponents through the centuries and up to the present day. We see how Confucian teachings have become the basis of East Asian culture.

This lucid and well-organized book will offer both students and general readers the background, information, and analysis they require to understand and appreciate the wisdom and timeless relevance of Confucian teachings. --Book Jacket.