In this excellent English translation of The Analects, or Sayings,of Confucius, readers will find a rich distillation of the timeless precepts of one of history's most influential teachers and social theorists. A Chinese philosopher who lived c. 551 to c. 479B.C.,Confucius originated and taught an ethical, socially oriented philosophy that stressed proper behavior and a sympathetic,mutually supportive attitude among individuals, their families and society.

From his teachings came a system of ethics for managing society that has influenced generations of politicians, social reformers and religious thinkers. Indeed, the effect of Confucian philosophy has been so profound that it has become basic not only to an understanding of traditional Chinese civilization, but of Western society as well. Now the essence of Confucian teaching, contained in The Analects, is available in this inexpensive volume,providing inspirational and instructive reading to anyone interested in the history of social thought, Chinese philosophy or theories of ethical behavior.

Chronology

The 36 Disciples

Note on the Conversations

Dramatis Personae

VOLUME I

BOOK I. Concerning Fundamental Principles

BOOK II. Concerning Government

VOLUME II

BOOK III. The Eight Dancers: Concerning Manners and Morals

BOOK IV. Concerning Virtue

VOLUME III

BOOK V. Concerning Certain Disciples and Others

BOOK vi. Concerning Certain Disciples and Other Subjects

VOLUME IV

BOOK VII. Concerning the Master Himself

BOOK VIii. Chiefly Concerning Certain Ancient Worthies

VOLUME V

BOOK IX. Chiefly Personal

BOOK X. Concerning the Sage in His Daily Life

VOLUME VI

BOOK XI. Chiefly Concerning the Disciples

BOOK XII. Concerning Virtue, Nobility, and Polity

VOLUME VII

BOOK XIII. Chiefly Concerning Government

BOOK XIV. Chiefly Concerning Government and Certain Rulers

VOLUME VIII

BOOK XV. Chiefly on the Maintenance of Principles and Character

BOOK XVI. Concerning Ministerial Responsibility et Alia

VOLUME IX

BOOK xVII. Recording Unsuitable Calls and Sundry Maxims

BOOK XVIII. Concerning Ancient Worthies

VOLUME X

BOOK XIX. Recorded Sayings of Some Disciples

BOOK XX. Concerning Right Government

Index