Asian Studies 214 - Found. of Chinese Thought

An introduction to Chinese thought in the Classical period (~500-221 BCE), a time of great social and political furor. We will study (in translation) the works of Kongzi (Confucius), Mozi, Zhaungzi, Mengzi (Mencius), Han Feizi, and others, with an eye to the contemporary relevance of ancient Chinese thought. We will ask such questions as: What kind of life should one live? What is the source of political authority? What is human nature? We will work to understand each philosopher's answers to these questions, and develop our own views in response. We will take care to put these figures and their works in their historical and cultural context.