In this foundational work of Chinese intellectual history, Zhang Dainian, a preeminent philosopher and former president of the Society for the History of Chinese Philosophy, presents a masterly synthesis of the "spirit" of Chinese culture. Unlike Western theocentric traditions, Zhang argues that Chinese civilization is built upon a humanistic framework of persistent self-improvement and moral responsibility. <p/>This systematic, illustrated edition categorizes the Chinese philosophical system into four rigorous pillars: vigorous action derived from The Book of Changes; harmony and the Mean as a mechanism for balancing diversity; virtue cultivation paired with practical utility; and the harmony between Heaven and humanity which offers ancient solutions to modern ecological challenges. <p/>By analyzing primary sources from Confucius, Laozi, and Mencius to Wang Fuzhi, Zhang illuminates how traditional values adapt to global modernity. This volume is an essential primary source for university collections in Asian Studies, Comparative Philosophy, and Eastern Intellectual History.
