The Generation and Realization of Meaning -- Philosophical Thoughts in the Rites of Zhou

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Features: The Rites of Zhou is a classic Confucian text of profound significance to traditional Chinese society and culture. However, specialized research on it is rare. This book delves deeply into the philosophical meaning of rites (and music), breaking the traditional focus on institutions and cultural layers, and holds great theoretical and practical significance. The author comprehensively studies the text of The Rites of Zhou and related pre-Qin and Han Dynasty literature, particularly the Guodian Chu Bamboo Slips, starting from reflections on philosophical issues. They explore the origins, structure, function, and value of rituals, ritual systems, and ritual culture, especially the cosmology, metaphysics, philosophy of life, and political philosophy in The Rites of Zhou, as well as the metaphysical interpretation of The Doctrine of the Mean and the cultural meaning of The Record of Music. The book offers three major new insights: First, the author views rites as "code symbols" that carry social values while also serving as mediators. Second, the author explains the meaningful world revealed by "rites and music complementing each other." Third, the author profoundly elucidates the political implications and the political philosophy embodied by "rites." In addition to these three points, the author's discussion on "music" and "emotion" is also very insightful, revealing what others have not noticed.