However varied in its attitudes and ideas, Chinese philosophy has typically centered on the concrete problems of human life, from the personal to the political, and is first and foremost a path to be followed. The Way of the World is a wonderfully readable collection of writings that demonstrate the range of Taoist approaches to the practical dynamics involved in the relationship between the individual and society. The writings-some in prose and some in verse-focus on self-cultivation, how to approach the problems of life, and how to acquire the skills necessary for leadership.
The material in this collection comes from a variety of sources and spans several time periods including some of the earliest texts. Highlights include selections from Guanzi (dated from 725-645 b.c.e.) on the mastery of the self as a prerequisite to leadership, a commentary on the maxims of Lao Tzu, and famous Taoist anecdotes.
Translated by:
Thomas Cleary Imprint: Shambhala Publications Inc Country of Publication: United States Dimensions:
Height: 227mm,
Width: 152mm,
Spine: 8mm
Weight: 181g ISBN:9781590307380 ISBN 10: 1590307380 Pages: 126 Publication Date:15 December 2009 Audience:
General/trade
,
ELT Advanced
Format:Paperback Publisher's Status: Active
Thomas Cleary holds a PhD in East Asian Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University. He is the translator of over fifty volumes of Buddhist, Taoist, Confucian, and Islamic texts from Sanskrit, Chinese, Pali, and Arabic.