5150/6150: Topics in Classical Chinese Philosophy—Spring 2008

Confucianism is a tradition stretching back over 2500 years, but it is far from being a monolithic system of thought. Over time and in response to philosophical challenges and changing socio-political circumstances, Confucian thinkers developed a variety of different views on numerous topics, including human nature, virtue, and moral education. This course will trace the development of Confucianism from earliest times through medieval "Neo-Confucianism" by looking at several key figures in the tradition. No previous coursework in Chinese philosophy is required. All readings will be in English.


• Course Syllabus
• Timeline of Important Periods and Figures
• Pronunciation Guide
• Chart for Converting between Wade-Giles and Pinyin
• Outline for Confucius Lecture #1
• Outline for Confucius Lecture #2
• Outline for Mencius Lecture #1
• Outline for Lecture on Background to Neo-Confucianism #1
• Passages to study for Quiz #1
• Passages to study for Quiz #2
• Passages to study for Quiz #3
• Passages to study for Quiz #4
• 5150 Homework #1
• 5150 Homework #2
• 5150 Homework #3
• 5150 Paper Topics #1
• 5150 Paper Topics #2
• Guidelines for Written Assignments