Chinese Intellectual History (1) (中国思想史 (1))

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Chinese Intellectual History (1) (中国思想史 (1)) (CHS301)

Synopsis

CHS301 examines Chinese intellectual thought strongly influencing each period of Chinese history. Students will study the mainstream ideas, origins and influences of the Pre-Qin to Han Dynasty through selected texts, thus attaining a general survey of the development of Chinese thought. By analyzing the basic structure of Chinese philosophers’ ideological discourses of each period, students examine relevant ideas and connotations, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the ideologies, improving the ability to think independently and critically, thus developing awareness and interest in Chinese thought.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JAN

Topics

Stages and characteristics of Chinese intellectual history 中国思想史之分期及其特色
An overview of ancient thought 上古思想概述
Teachings of Confucius 孔子的仁教及其正名思想
Teachings of Mencius 孟子心性之学
Lao Tzu and Tao 老子的中心思想及其基源问题
Zhuangzi and his thoughts 庄子的基源问题及其发展
Wisdom of Tao 道家的智慧：特性与意义
Teachings of Xunzi 荀子及名家
Teachings of Mozi 墨子思想
Teachings of Han Feizi 韩非子思想
An overview of the thought of the Han Dynasties 两汉思想概述
Teachings of Emperor Huang and Lao Tzu 黄老之学

Learning Outcome

Examine the proposition and characteristics of selected Chinese ideologies
Distinguish the academic connotation and achievements of selected Chinese philosophers
Appraise the context and evolution of Chinese thought development
Illustrate the trajectory and substantive implications of Chinese intellectual thought
Analyze the interaction between the different schools of Chinese thought and their times, and the evolution and influence of the core concepts of these ideas
Apply knowledge learnt to improve the ability to read and comprehend classic Chinese texts