Confucian Philosophy

This book provides a comprehensive and multi-level review of the development and evolution of Confucian philosophy. It is the lecture script used by Liang Qichao during his teaching at Tsinghua University, embodying the essence of his lifelong research on Confucian philosophy. The first chapter clarifies doctrinal significance, introducing the concepts and scope of Confucian philosophy and its similarities and differences with Western philosophy; the second chapter responds to the widespread skepticism about Confucian studies in society at the time and points out the necessity for contemporary youth to study Confucian philosophy; the third chapter introduces the research method used in the book; the fourth and fifth chapters chronicle over two and a half thousand years of the origin, changes, inheritance, evolution, and impact of Confucian studies from Confucius to the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China; and the sixth chapter elaborates on the main issues that Confucian scholars have traditionally studied. Although it is a popular book that offers a glimpse into Confucian philosophy, Liang Qichao's rich social experience and solid academic foundation enable him to observe minutely and provide unique insights, offering many inspirations to readers. 

What Is Confucian Philosophy?.- Why Should We Study Confucian Philosophy?.- The Research Methods of Confucian Philosophy.- A Brief Account of Confucian Changes for 2,500 Years (I).- A Brief Account of Confucian Changes for 2,500 Years (II).- The Crucial Issues of Confucian Philosophy.

Liang Qichao (1873-1929) is a modern thinker, politician, and renowned scholar, as well as one of the leaders of the Hundred Days' Reform movement. Liang Qichao had a wide range of academic research, with profound knowledge of both Chinese and Western cultures, covering ancient and modern times. He made contributions in the fields of philosophy, literature, history, classics, law, ethics, religious studies, and more, with his most notable achievements in the study of history. Liang wrote prolifically throughout his life, various collections of his works have been published, with the Complete Works of the Drinking-Ice Room being the most comprehensive one.