Description
Book SynopsisFor more than two thousand years, the writings of the Confucian philosopher Mengzi have been a source of guidance and inspiration for those set on doing something to improve the state of the world. In Doing What You Really Want, Franklin Perkins presents a coherent, systematic, and accessible explanation of Mengzi''s philosophy. He covers everything from the place of human beings in nature, to human psychology and philosophy of emotions, to the various ways in which we can deliberately change and cultivate ourselves. Mengzi was concerned not just with theory but also effective action. Perkins thus includes a collection of practical advice and a Confucian analysis of politics oriented toward how individuals can make a difference in the world. These topics are integrated around Mengzi''s philosophy as a way of life dedicated to changing the world, providing an alternative approach for understanding the contemporary relevance of Confucianism. Mengzi offers theoretical and practical resour
Trade ReviewScholars from disciplines such as (intercultural) philosophy and religious studies will have much to gain from this. * Religious Studies Review *
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Why Confucianism? Chapter One: Harmony with Nature Chapter Two: What People Really Want Chapter Three: Emotions and Enjoying Life Chapter Four: Cultivating Feelings Chapter Five: Learning Chapter Six: Ritual, Music and Embodied Emotions Chapter Seven: Temptations, Excuses, and Putting Ideas into Practice Chapter Eight: Power, Politics and Action Bibliography Index
