General information

• Study points: 4.00
• Language: English
• Category: Lectures
• Duration: 26.0 hours 
• Periodicity: Taught next academic year in the first semester
• POC: POC Taal- en regiostudies

Taught by

Defoort Carine
Standaert Nicolas

Aims

To introduce and reflect on Chinese philosophical texts through quotes from primary sources in various translations.

Content

A discussion of Chinese philosophy from two main concerns in the Chinese intellectual world: (1) the changing uses of and views on language; and (2) the changing relation between the major actors constituting order (Heaven and human beings). The focus lies on ancient Chinese philosophy, from the 5th to the 3rd century B.C. Confucius, Mozi, Laozi, Zhuangzi, Xunzi and Hanfeizi. Song-Ming philosophy and contemporary thought will also be discussed.

Course activities

The students are expected to read the course notes before class. The two teachers each present their own approach of the relevant Chinese philosopher. This is followed by discussion or questions.

Evaluation description

Examination type:
    oral with written preparation
Evaluation type:
    Closed book

Explanation

There will be one oral exam comprising 100% of the grade for this course. The exam will consist of two main questions about the texts and ideas discussed in class concerning (1) language and (2) the status of Heaven. The questions are distributed in class and posted on toledo. A one-page written answer to each question can be prepared at home before the exam. The students bring two copies (for the two examiners) of their preparation for each question to the exam.