Pre-Qin political and legal theory

Author: Zhang Weiren
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-01
Features: This book is a foundational work on the study of pre-Qin political and legal thought. It selects, categorizes, arranges, and annotates eight texts—The Analects, Tao Te Ching, Mozi, Zhuangzi, Mencius, Xunzi, The Book of the State Master, and The Complete Works of Han Feizi—presenting the political theories of the pre-Qin thinkers systematically. The content is comprehensive and concise. The book also proposes a series of thought-provoking questions based on the original texts, offering valuable insights into Chinese traditional culture and political thought. A nation's innovative capacity is proportional to its ability to recall and understand its own history. The political and legal theories of the pre-Qin era, which showcase the grand ideas of Confucianism, Mohism, Taoism, and Legalism, as well as the thoughts of figures like Confucius, Mencius, Xunzi, Mozi, Laozi, Zhuangzi, Shang Yang, and Han Feizi, reflect the earliest spiritual creativity of the Chinese nation. Their original wisdom contributes to shaping the legal spirit of the Chinese people, aiding the construction of legal systems, and fostering continuous innovation. A thoughtful study of pre-Qin political theory not only stimulates our creative awareness and intellectual capacity but also deepens our historical perspective on analyzing problems, thereby elevating the standards of personal and academic growth. This book is a foundational work on the study of pre-Qin political and legal thought. Through the selection, categorization, arrangement, and annotation of eight texts—The Analects, Tao Te Ching, Mozi, Zhuangzi, Mencius, Xunzi, The Book of the State Master, and The Complete Works of Han Feizi—it systematically presents the political and legal theories of the pre-Qin thinkers. It also proposes a series of thought-provoking questions based on the original texts, offering valuable insights into Chinese traditional culture and political thought.