Confucian Moral Self Cultivation

by Philip J. Ivanhoe

A concise and accessible introduction to the evolution of the concept of moral self-cultivation in the Chinese Confucian tradition, this volume begins with an explanation of the pre-philosophical development of ideas central to this concept, followed by an examination of the specific treatment of self cultivation in the philosophy of Kongzi ("Confucius"), Mengzi ("Mencius"), Xunzi, Zhu Xi, Wang Yangming, Yan Yuan and Dai Zhen. In addition to providing a survey of the views of some of the most influential Confucian thinkers on an issue of fundamental importance to the tradition, Ivanhoe also relates their concern with moral self-cultivation to a number of topics in the Western ethical tradition. Bibliography and index are included.

Genres: Philosophy, China, Nonfiction

152 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1993

About the author

Philip J. Ivanhoe is an historian of Chinese thought, particularly of Confucianism and Neo-Confucianism. He is a professor at the City University of Hong Kong.

Reviews

[Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

P.J. Ivanhoe is one of the leading Confucian Scholars in the world today. His analyses, chapter by chapter, of different Confucian masters and the similarities and differences of their interpretation of the influential Chinese Sage is comprehensive, organized, and profound.

Laying out the basics of each interpretation in brief chapters organized by named Philosopher, and with sections of notes that are topic encompassing and supremely informative, the works of P.J. Ivanhoe will be helpful to any serious student seeking to further themselves in moral self cultivation, or to the ways of Confucius and his incredible teachings.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good survey of an area of intense personal interest, which would be valuable for its bibliography alone.

[Duester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivanhoe's focus on the "connecting thread" of moral self-cultivation makes this a great introduction to a vibrant ethical tradition for novices, with summaries and issue-raising which remain useful for those more familiar with Confucianism.

[Micah · Rating 5 out of 5]

an absolutely tremendous book. loved it!

[Adam S. Rust · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly clear and concise summary of one facet of one of the major world Virtue Ethics traditions. Highly recommended for anyone looking to learn more about the topic.

[Elise Ashby · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is pretty basic and brief, but it's a nice, easy to read introduction to the major Confucian thinkers.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a very good book this is.

[federico garcía LOCA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Xunzi for the win

[Byron Eppler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic introduction to understanding analyses of Confucian thought.

[Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good work on the subject, solidly written.