Hsün Tzu – Basic Writings
By Hsün Tzu (born ca. 312 B.C.).
177 Pages | First edition 1963, 1966 | Softcover | Columbia University Press, New York | ISBN:
Translations from the Asian Classics
Hsün Tzu set forth the most complete, well-ordered philosophical system of his day. Although basically Confucian, he differed with Mencius, his famous predecessor in the Confucian school, by asserting that the original nature of man is evil. To counteract this evil, he advocated self-improvement, the pursuit of learning, the avoidance of obsession, and constant attention to ritual in all areas of life. He also expounded on such objects as military affairs, Heaven, music, and the rectification of names. On government, Hsün Tzu believed that the rulers of the nation should play a crucial role in the process of educating and uplifting the population.
With a translation by the noted scholar Burton Watson, Basic Writings includes an introduction to the philosopher in relation to Chinese history and thought. Readers familiair with Hsün Tzu's work will find that Whatson's lucid translation breathes new life into this classic. For those not yet acquainted with Hsün Tzu - Basic Writings will reach a new generation whol will find his ideas on government, language, and order and safety in society surprisingly close to the concerns of our age.
Hsün Tzu – Basic Writings
By Hsün Tzu (born ca. 312 B.C.).
177 Pages | First edition 1963, 1966 | Softcover | Columbia University Press, New York | ISBN:
Translations from the Asian Classics
Hsün Tzu set forth the most complete, well-ordered philosophical system of his day. Although basically Confucian, he differed with Mencius, his famous predecessor in the Confucian school, by asserting that the original nature of man is evil. To counteract this evil, he advocated self-improvement, the pursuit of learning, the avoidance of obsession, and constant attention to ritual in all areas of life. He also expounded on such objects as military affairs, Heaven, music, and the rectification of names. On government, Hsün Tzu believed that the rulers of the nation should play a crucial role in the process of educating and uplifting the population.
With a translation by the noted scholar Burton Watson, Basic Writings includes an introduction to the philosopher in relation to Chinese history and thought. Readers familiair with Hsün Tzu’s work will find that Whatson’s lucid translation breathes new life into this classic. For those not yet acquainted with Hsün Tzu – Basic Writings will reach a new generation whol will find his ideas on government, language, and order and safety in society surprisingly close to the concerns of our age.