Summary

Praise for the previous print edition:

"...includes a wealth of material. Definitely recommended."—Calliope

Long dismissed as irrelevant by communist China, Confucianism is experiencing a new resurgence in China and around the globe. So-called New Confucianists seek to find a unity between their religion and the modern world, rejecting any form of cultural isolationism. Founded in China 2,500 years ago by a master philosopher, Confucianism was a system of ethical behavior and social responsibility that evolved into one of the great spiritual traditions of the East. It has played a profoundly important role in the evolution of Chinese civilization over the centuries and has had a marked influence on other Asian cultures including those of Vietnam, Korea, and Japan. 

Confucianism, Fourth Edition clearly outlines the historical development of Confucianism, presents the basic tenets of Confucian thought, traces its evolution in response to the events of Chinese history, and examines its enduring relevance to the contemporary world. Engaging sidebars, recommendations for further reading, a list of websites for additional information, and full-color photographs add to the well-written text. A glossary and bibliography make research easy and enjoyable for students.

Coverage includes:

• Basic concepts and beliefs of Confucianism
• The teachings of Confucius
• Confucian literature, including The Five Classics
• The effects of political interference from China, Europe, and the United States
• Restoration of Confucianism in the 21st century.

Specifications

eBook

About the Author(s)

Dorothy and Thomas Hoobler have written more than 100 books for young readers, including several award-winning works on Asian history and culture. They live in New York City.

Series editor Joanne O'Brien has an M.A. degree in theology and has written a range of education and general reference books on religion and contemporary culture. She is coauthor, with Martin Palmer and Elizabeth Breuilly, of Religions of the World and Festivals of the World, published by Infobase, and, with Martin Palmer, of Atlas of Religion. She is a consultant to WWF, the World Bank, the World Council of Churches, UNESCO, and UNDP.

Series editor and religious historian Martin Palmer is the founder of International Consultancy on Religion, Education, and Culture (ICOREC), in 1983, and the secretary-general of the Alliance of Religions and Conservation (ARC). He is the author of many books on world religions as well as a translator of ancient Chinese texts.