Confucianism is an East Asian tradition that dates back 2,500 years ago. It may be described as a worldview, a social ethic, a political ideology, and a scholarly tradition that is largely concerned with questions of human flourishing and moral discernment. This course examines the evolution of this intellectual tradition over the centuries, in different cultural milieu and in relation to different audiences. To this end, in addition to studying the emergence and unfolding of this tradition, the course also takes a look at its reception by the Jesuit missionaries and its gradual spread in Japan and Korea.

Intended Audience:

Undergraduates who are interested in East Asian intellectual traditions, particularly Confucianism

Class Format:

Two 90-minute meetings weekly