Description
Book SynopsisGrowing Moral engages its readers to reflect on and to practice the teachings of Confucianism in the contemporary world. It draws on the whole history of Confucianism, focusing on three thinkers from the classical era (Kongzi or Confucius, Mengzi, and Xunzi) and two from the Neo-Confucian era (Zhu Xi and Wang Yangming). In addition to laying out the fundamental teachings of Confucianism, it highlights the enduring and strikingly relevant lessons thatConfucianism offers contemporary readers. At its core, this book builds a case for modern Confucianism as a practical way to grow toward more harmonious lives together through reflection, ritual, and compassion; it can help us find balance and joy within our complex and too-often frenetic modern lives.
Trade ReviewSteve Angle offers a wide-ranging and masterful exploration of what it could mean to live a Confucian life. Attuned to the fine rewards such a life will promise, Angle maps a new, progressive Confucianism that retains and revitalizes the best of what the old can do. * Amy Olberding, The University of Oklahoma *
The conversational tone of this gem of a guide for living should engage a wide audience, from the merely curious who know little of Confucianism to academics who teach and publish in Confucian philosophy. Grounded in impeccable scholarship, the author skillfully weaves vignettes of everyday life with the wisdom from ancient Confucian texts to persuade readers that Confucian philosophy can help them live a better life, become a better person, and contribute to the society they live in. It presents a progressive Confucianism that urges its adherents to critically examine its legacy and adapt its enduring values to new historical realities and possibilities in a manner that would advance human civilization. * Sor-hoon Tan, Philosophy, Singapore Management University *
Highly readable and full of insights, this book not only shows brilliantly how Confucianism can be relevant and beneficial today as a way of life, but also illustrates how one can appropriate a tradition and be progressive at the same time. This is how Confucius would teach his ideas today, if he comes back to life. * Peimin Ni, Grand Valley State University *
Table of ContentsOne: What is Confucianism? 1. Introduction 2. The History of Confucianism Two: How to Be a Confucian 3. Be Filial 4. Follow Rituals 5. Cultivate Your Sprouts 6. Read in the Right Way 7. Listen to the Right Music 8. Reflect Regularly 9. Pay Attention 10. Be Engaged Three: Making Progress 11. Commitment 12. Fake It Till You Make It 13. Expanding the Self 14. Dealing with Conflict 15. Enlightenment and Sagehood 16. Death Four: Challenges and the Future 17. Progressive Confucianism 18. Gender 19. Hierarchy 20. Confucians Around the Globe Further Reading Bibliography Notes Index
