Trust Tradition
Wed, Jan 30
In this class, we'll consider another ancient approach to learning how to live: Confucianism. In particular, we will consider whether some important philosophical truths are best learned through observing tradition, trusting authorities, and cultivating a more deferential kind of intellectual humility. We will consider the challenges we face when we try to adapt rituals and traditions to modernity. And we'll compare Eastern and Western conceptions of virtue in the ancient world.
Key Concepts: Lesser Learning/Greater Learning, Li, Wu-Wei
Read This:
PHILOSOPHICAL TEXTS:
Analects Books 4, 9, and 10 (Confucius)
"On Relationships: Confucius and As-If Rituals" (Puett and Gross-Loh)
If you want more background on Confucianism, check out these excerpts from some key Confucian texts. (Optional)
APPLICATION ARTICLES:
"Chinese Eye Alternative Funerals as Graveyard Prices Soar" (Forbes)
OPTIONAL: Thousands of Confiscated Coffins and an Exhumed Corpse Stoke Fury in China (NY Times)
OPTIONAL: "Qingming Festival's Professional Tomb Sweepers" (sixthtone.com)
Do This:
- Homework: Reading Reflection Journal.
- Read the instructions for the Belief Prewrite (due 2/8).