After the Republic: Notes on Political Philosophy and Jurisprudence

Author: Gu Su
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: The selected essays in this collection are recent works by the author on political and legal philosophy, published or written in recent years. They focus on contemporary hot issues such as democracy, the rule of law, civil rights, and the conscience of humanistic intellectuals, linking these discussions to the realities of China. To explore the attitudes and methodologies of fundamental theoretical research, several essays are dedicated to examining the basic stance of contemporary philosophical research, the spirit of scientific rationality, academic neutrality, and adherence to norms. These topics are interconnected, addressing fundamental political and legal concepts, principles, and the understanding of the core ideas of reform. The writing of these essays stems from an inner impulse driven by a sense of social responsibility, and some of the chapters have sparked significant social responses since their publication, serving as the author's greatest reward for his thoughts and efforts.
Contemporary political and legal philosophy has become a focal point and hot topic in China's intellectual and theoretical circles. This is because the development of social reality and the deepening of reform have created urgent and arduous tasks for political system reform, thereby intensifying the demand for theoretical research. The novelty of these tasks requires us to first organize, analyze, and discern the existing achievements of Western political and legal philosophy, and then conduct innovative research by linking them to China's actual conditions, proposing reform theories and plans that suit the existing socio-cultural characteristics.
The author appreciates a straightforward, incisive, and sharp academic style, and has always strived to discuss issues in a clear and realistic manner. In recent years, he has attempted to move beyond a mere introduction of Western political and legal philosophy, making efforts to innovate theoretically by combining East Asian culture and China's realities through critical analysis. Occasionally, he has also written popular political essays and (notes/essays), with the subjective intention of contributing to China's comprehensive reform and development. Thus, these immature writings serve as a small contribution to the readers.