Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
This open access book offers comprehensive information on Wang Yang-ming's life, helping readers identify and grasp the foundations on which his philosophy was established. Though a great man, Wang had an extremely difficult life, full of many hardships. Based on various official histories, Wang's own writings, and his disciples' records, the book explores the legendary life of this ancient philosopher, who not only diligently pursued his objective of living as a sage, but also persistently sought the ideal state of a sage in ideology. The author also shares his own interpretations of the main aspects of Wang's philosophy using simple and straightforward language.
This book will help readers understand and appreciate Wang Yang-ming's extraordinary life, his generous mind, deep thoughts and bright personality, inspiring them to pursue enriching lives. It offers a unique and insightful work for undergraduate students and all others interested in Wang's philosophy and life story.
Synopsis
Chapter 1 Experiencing "Gewu Zhizhi"
1.1 An Amazing Child
1.2 An Extraordinary Youth
Chapter 2 Learning "Saint Theory"
2.1 A Maverick
2.2 Risking His Life to Petition the Authorities
2.3 A Narrow Escape
Chapter 3 Proposing His "Philosophy of Mind"
3.1 The Enlightenment in Longchang
3.2 The Oneness of Knowing and Doing
Chapter 4 Practicing His Military Thoughts
4.1 Mission Entrusted in Political Crisis
4.2 Moving to Fight in Jiangxi
4.3 Taking Litou by Strategy
4.4 Suppressing Zhu Chen-hao's Rebellion Alone
4.5 Capturing Zhu Chen-hao Alive
Chapter 5 Pushing His Idea of Governance
5.1 The Fatuous Emperor
5.2 Enduring Humiliation
Chapter 6 Establishing His Philosophical System
6.1 Doctrine of Conscience
6.2 Appointment to Guangdong and Guangxi
6.3 The Last Battles
6.4 Bright as My Heart
References
Glossary
Index