Confucius and Confucianism - by Lee Dian Rainey (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This comprehensive introduction explores the life and teachings of Confucius, and development of Confucian thought, from ancient times to the present today.

• Demonstrates the wisdom and enduring relevance of Confucius's teachings - drawing parallels between our 21^st century society and that of China 2,500 years ago, where government corruption, along with social, economic, and technical changes, led thinkers to examine human nature and society
• Draws on the latest research and incorporates interpretations of Confucius and his works by Chinese and Western scholars throughout the centuries
• Explores how Confucius's followers expanded and reinterpreted his ideas after his death, and how this process has continued throughout Chinese history
• Seamlessly links Confucius with our modern age, revealing how his teachings have become the basis of East Asian culture and influenced the West

From the Back Cover

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.

Review Quotes

"Thoughtful and even humorous, this is a promising choice for use in a university class but should also prove a helpful resource for experts." (Religious Studies Review, 1 December 2012)

"Confucius and Confucianism: The Essentials is an excellent, well-written, and accessible introduction to the Confucian tradition, eminently suitable for both an undergraduate class and a general readership." (Journal of Chinese Religions, 2012)

"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 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

About the Author

Lee Dian Rainey is Associate Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at the Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada. She has taught Chinese philosophy for over 20 years, and has published widely in the field.