The American Minervan

Tag: Chinese Philosophy

  • The Scholar studies the Men of Antiquity to become an Exemplar in Future Ages | Book of Rites (Li Ji)

    The Scholar studies the Men of Antiquity to become an Exemplar in Future Ages | Book of Rites (Li Ji)

    This single passage defines all that we aim toward in this life, and is therefore, the most important to my ideal here: contributing to the advancement of culture and education. It also tells you, as the reader that Far-East Asian Philosophy had an impact on me. I want to help you see certain limitations, or…

  • “Heaven has cast us off” – Tsu-li to King Zhou of Shang in the Shujing

    “Heaven has cast us off” – Tsu-li to King Zhou of Shang in the Shujing

    Tsu-li announces to king Zhou-xin (the last emperor of Shang dynasty), that Heaven has abandoned him, because of his dissolute way. “Heaven is bringing an end to the Mandate of our dynasty. (…) It is not that the former kings do not aid us, but by your dissoluteness and sport you bring on the end…

  • Confucian Philosopher Mencius on Dealing with Tyrannical Rulers

    Confucian Philosopher Mencius on Dealing with Tyrannical Rulers

    Mengzi 孟子 (372–289 BCE) on corruption and brutal rulers taught, that we must be moved by a moral disposition to do good, understand, and relieve humanity and other life each day a little more of its suffering. Mencius taught, that benevolence is the essence of the human being, and with the cultivation of virtue, comes our…

  • Lao Tzu advises Confucius not to be overwhelmed by human affairs

    Lao Tzu advises Confucius not to be overwhelmed by human affairs

    Lao Tzu advises Confucius not to be overwhelmed by human affairs in this film. “Chaos is everywhere.” Lao Tzu: “Men habitually long for fame and authority.”Kong Qui: “Then what should I, your pupil, do?I cannot hang useless on the door-beam like a dried-out gourd.” “THE MASTERS WORDS ARE PROFOUND, BUT I MUST BE LOYAL TO…

  • Kong Zi (Confucius) Film Scene – True Act of Brotherhood and Sacrifice

    Kong Zi (Confucius) Film Scene – True Act of Brotherhood and Sacrifice

    This was one of the most moving scenes in the film. It exemplifies, not only Chinese culture and understanding of the State, or the ethics of the master portrayed — we will use the scene to also exemplify the republican philosophy and its idea of Fraternitas.

  • Zisi: Virtue and Accountable Actions | Doctrine of the Mean

    Zisi: Virtue and Accountable Actions | Doctrine of the Mean

    Zisi speaks on being accountable for our actions, for abandoning the path of virtue, and causing suffering under heavens watch. “Some men who have not complied with virtue will yet not acknowledge their offences, and when Heaven has by evident tokens charged them to correct their conduct, they still say, “What are these things to…