3 credits
Fall 2025 Lecture Upper Division
In this course, we will survey the classic works of classical Chinese philosophy (c. 600-200 BCE). We will focus on seven major philosophers (and their followers): Kongzi (Confucius), Mozi, Mengzi (Mencius), Zhuangzi, Laozi, Xunzi, and Han Feizi. We will use their work to consider topics such as: the nature and value of morality, the proper role of ritual in human life, whether human nature is good or bad, how one becomes a moral person, the proper role and function of government, and more. In addition to introducing the competing traditions of Confucianism, Mohism, Daoism, and Legalism, the course will help students to develop basic philosophical skills as they develop and defend their own views on these topics. No knowledge of Chinese is expected.
Learning Outcomes1Identify the central views of classical Chinese philosophers by reading primary texts.
2Explain these views in their own words, and relate them to alternative views, by writing summaries (as part of "position evaluation" assignments).
3Apply these views and arguments to questions arising in their own lives through in-class discussion of assigned reading questions.
4Extract arguments from prose text and analyze them, both through in-class exercises and as part of "position evaluation" assignments.
5Assess the value of these arguments via in-class group discussion and final papers.
6Formulate original arguments regarding topics discussed by Chinese philosophers via in-class group discussion and final papers.e philosophers via in-class group discussion and final papers.
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