Now, when you want to study your books, you should first settle your mind so that it becomes like still water or a clear mirror. How can a cloudy mirror reflect anything?
今且要讀書，須先定其心，使之如止水，如明鏡。暗鏡如何照物！ —Zhu Xi 朱熹 (1130–1200)
This class introduces the spiritual and scholarly traditions of China with a focus on the Warring States period to the Song and Ming dynasties. Students explore multiple facets of Chinese philosophies including moral theory, political science, ritual system, and path of spiritual self-cultivation.

Goals

  • Read key primary sources from Chinese philosophies with attention to historical and cultural context.
  • Engage firsthand in the teaching and learning practices central to institutions of Chinese philosophical education.
  • Produce original philosophical work informed by the theories and methods of Chinese discourse.

Outcomes

  • Students who come to see education as an opportunity for self-cultivation may find renewed energy to invest in their own college experience.
  • Students who gain a longer view of history may gain insight into present socio-political conditions in the world around us.
  • Students who cultivate curiosity regarding diverse spiritual practices will be able to engage intelligently on issues of religious diversity outside the classroom.

This class counts toward the Certificate in Jain Studies. Visit our Student Activities page to see examples of what projects and activities students in the certificate classes have participated in.

Visit the Registrar's Office for registration information and Philosophy and Religion Department for more details on our other course offerings.