The Way of the World: Readings in Chinese Philosophy

The Dynamic Relationship between the individual and society has been a central concern of Taoism from its ancient beginnings-which is perhaps why certain Taoist classics, like Sun Tzu's Art of War, are so often consulted these days for leadership advice. This anthology presents a wide range of texts revealing the processes of integrating personal spirituality with social responsibility central to Taoist tradition across the centuries and throughout the schools. There are a wealth of approaches to life in the world presented here, but at the heart of each is an understanding that even a mystic must be socially responsible and that self-cultivation is primary preparation for anyone called to lead. Book jacket.

Thomas Cleary holds a PhD in East Asian Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University and a JD from the University of California, Berkeley Law. He is widely known for his translations of seminal classics in Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, military science, and martial arts.