A Comprehensive History of Chinese Historical Thought: The Qing Dynasty Volume

Author: Wu Huaiqi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-02-01
Features: A Comprehensive History of Chinese Historical Thought has several distinctive characteristics:
First, it emphasizes the exploration of the national spirit and fine traditions of Chinese historiography. Through the study of how historians cultivated virtue in history, applied historical knowledge to governance, and developed ideas of transformation and awareness of national crises—especially by analyzing the discourse on historical rise and decline—it demonstrates that concern for the prosperity and rejuvenation of the nation is a tradition in national historiography and lies at the core of the national spirit of Chinese historiography.
Second, it pays attention to examining the social background and mutual influence of philosophical trends in different eras on historical thought. By tracing the relationship between Chinese historiography and philosophy, the book reveals the rich connotations and profound foundations of Chinese historical thought, thereby deepening the study of historiographical ideas.
Third, it broadens the scope and approaches of historiographical studies. The book does not confine the study of historiographical thought to historians alone but expands the perspective to include insights from philosophers, politicians, military strategists, and others. It also emphasizes the study of historiographical perspectives among ethnic minorities, combining vertical analysis with horizontal examination, case studies with thematic discussions, and in-depth textual research with systematic theoretical analysis.
The Qing Dynasty was the last feudal dynasty in China, and Qing historiography also entered the final stage of the development of traditional Chinese historiography.