East Asian Philosophy: A Brief Introduction - Paperback
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East Asian Philosophy: A Brief Introduction
This comprehensive guide serves as an accessible entry point into East Asian philosophical traditions for English-speaking readers. Written by D. E. Osto, the book systematically explores the three major philosophical streams that have shaped East Asian thought: Daoism (Taoism), Confucianism, and Buddhism.
Classical Chinese Philosophy
The book begins with classical period philosophies, examining the foundational Daoist teachings of Laozi and Zhuangzi. It then covers early Confucian thought through the works of Confucius, Mencius, and Xunzi, providing readers with a solid understanding of these influential philosophical systems that continue to shape East Asian culture and thought.
Buddhism's Journey to East Asia
Detailed chapters trace Buddhism's transmission from India to China, with focused analysis of two significant Chinese Buddhist schools: Huayan and Chan (Zen). These sections illuminate how Buddhist philosophy adapted and evolved within the Chinese cultural context, creating distinctive traditions that would influence the entire region.
Neo-Confucian Developments
The text examines Neo-Confucian philosophy through the works of Cheng Hao, Cheng Yi, Zhu Xi, and Wang Yangming, demonstrating how Confucian thought evolved and responded to Buddhist influences. Modern "New Confucian" perspectives are explored through the philosophies of Fung Yu-lan and Tu Wei-ming, connecting classical traditions to contemporary discourse.
Japanese Philosophical Traditions
The final chapters extend beyond China to investigate Japanese philosophical contributions, including the Zen philosophy of Dogen and the modern Kyoto School. This broader perspective demonstrates the interconnected nature of East Asian philosophical development across cultures and centuries.
D. E. Osto teaches Asian philosophy at Massey University, New Zealand, and is the author of Altered States: Buddhism and Psychedelic Spirituality in America (2016), Modern Samkhya: Ancient Spirituality for the Contemporary Atheist (2016), and Power, Wealth and Women in Indian Mahayana Buddhism: The Gandavyuha-sutra (2008).
This paperback edition provides students, scholars, and general readers with a structured introduction to the vast landscape of East Asian philosophical thought, making complex concepts accessible without sacrificing depth or accuracy.
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