Rediscovering the Roots of Chinese Thought：Laozi's Philosophy

Author:
CHEN Guying 陳鼓應

Translator:
Paul D’Ambrosio

Publication Year:
January 1, 2015

Abstract:
This book translates Lao Zhuang xinlun, a key work of contemporary Chinese. It offers a unique discussion of the Laozi, arguing—in contrast to standard Western scholarship—that the text goes back to a single author and identifying him as an older contemporary, and even teacher, of Confucius. This places the Confucian Analects after the Laozi and makes the text the most fundamental work of ancient Chinese thought.

Chen explores these debates regarding these points, providing evidence based on materials excavated from Mawangdui and Guodian. His book is fascinating documentation of contemporary Chinese arguments and debates previously unavailable in English. It is nothing less than a complete revision of the history of Chinese thought with Daoism as its major focus.

Table of Contents
1. Laozi before Kongzi
   —Laozi as Kongzi's Teacher; Laozi before Lunyu; Modern Scholarship; Laozi's Influence on Mozi; Conclusion

2. Laozi's and Kongzi's Teachings
   —Naturalism versus Rule by Virtuosity; The Importance of Society; Heavens, Dao, and Virtuosity; Human Innate Tendencies; Humaneness and Responsibility; Conclusion

3. The Early Laozi
   —The Guodian Versions; Moral Values; Philosophical Development; Issues in the Guodian Laozi

4. Laozi's Thought
Dimensions of Dao; Practical Application; Ontology and Experience

5. Laozi and Pre-Qin Philosophy
Mainstream Daoism; The Jixia School and Huang-Lao; Laozi's Impact; 

Conclusion