Introduction to Chinese Philosophy and Culture

This module offers an introduction to the rich landscape of Chinese philosophy, tracing its evolution from early worldviews around 2000 BCE through to the early 20th century. It delves into the seminal Hundred Schools of Thought – including Confucianism, Daoism, Mohism, and Legalism – and examines the significant influence of Buddhism and Neo-Confucianism. A central focus is to explain these philosophies within their specific cultural and historical contexts. 

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course students should be able to 

• display knowledge and understanding of the main facets of Chinese philosophy from early worldviews to the beginning of the 20th century

• demonstrate an understanding of Chinese philosophy in relation to its historical, spiritual, political, and aesthetic contexts

• explain rigourously and accurately existing works in the field

• develop critical thinking and creative ideas pertaining to the interpretation of Chinese philosophy

• research and write a coherent essay with citations on a set topic in the field of Chinese philosophy

• actively take part in critical and constructive dialogues

Assignment: by essay

Course books

Fung, Y.-L., A Short History of Chinese Philosophy, The Free Press

 Lai, K., An Introduction to Chinese Philosophy, Cambridge University Press

 Chan, Wing-T., A Source Book in Chinese Philosophy, Princeton University Press

 Li, Z., The Chinese Aesthetic Tradition, University of Hawai‘i Press

Indicative content

1. Early worldviews: cycles, the Mandate of Heaven and “The Book of Changes”

2.  The Hundred Schools of Thought: Confucianism

3.  The Hundred Schools of Thought: Daoism

4.  The Hundred Schools of Thought: Mohism

5.  The Hundred Schools of Thought: Legalism

6.  Chinese Buddhism: Chan

7.  Neo-Confucianism: Zhu Xi and Wang Yangming