Cross-Currents of Social Theorizing of Contemporary Taiwan: Self, Culture and Society

The book explores cross-currents of theorizing of self, culture, and society in contemporary Taiwan, addressing the neglect of non-Euro-American perspectives in social theorizing. It aims to broaden the field of theorizing to include diverse voices and global implications, transforming the one-sided Euro-American valorization of knowledge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 346 pages
Publication date: 23 August 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

The book delves into the intricate interplay of self, culture, and society in contemporary Taiwan, offering a comprehensive exploration of the diverse theoretical perspectives that have shaped these realms. Social theorizing, a dynamic and ever-evolving process, has been critically examined, thoughtfully considered, and creatively reimagined by the rich philosophical, religious, psychological, and literary traditions of one of the world's great civilizations. This book serves as a testament to the power of theorizing as a means of understanding the world more profoundly and holistically, as well as of driving transformative change.

However, it is important to note that much of social theorizing in the modern world remains predominantly Euro-American, despite the claims of globalization and the spread of knowledge. This one-sided Euro-American valorization of knowledge and disregard for other perspectives continues to persist, despite the global interconnectedness that we witness today. Regrettably, there is a limited attention paid to theorizing about the human condition emerging from other parts of the world, such as Taiwan, and its global implications.

This book aims to rectify this imbalance by mapping the field of theorizing in a broader spectrum of philosophy, psychology, religion, social sciences, and humanities in contemporary Taiwan. Through a multidisciplinary approach, it seeks to uncover the rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives that have emerged from this unique cultural context, shedding light on the global significance of Taiwanese theorizing.

In the first chapter, the book provides an overview of the historical and cultural background of Taiwan, highlighting the influences that have shaped its social and intellectual landscape. It explores the impact of colonization, migration, and globalization on Taiwanese society, as well as the unique challenges and opportunities that have emerged as a result. This chapter sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which delve deeper into the various theoretical frameworks and perspectives that have emerged in contemporary Taiwan.

Chapter 2 explores the philosophical foundations of social theorizing in Taiwan, examining the works of influential thinkers such as Wang Yangming, Cheng Yi, and Li Zicheng. It explores the concept of "wuwei" (non-action), a central tenet of Chinese philosophy, and its relevance to social theorizing in Taiwan. The chapter also discusses the influence of Western philosophy on Taiwanese social thought, particularly the works of Hegel, Marx, and Freud.

Chapter 3 delves into the psychological dimensions of social theorizing in Taiwan, examining the works of psychologists such as Yi-Fu Tuan, Jean Piaget, and Sigmund Freud. It explores the concept of "self" and "other" in Taiwanese society, as well as the role of culture and society in shaping individual identity and behavior. The chapter also discusses the impact of globalization on psychological processes and the development of new psychological theories and models.

Chapter 4 explores the religious dimensions of social theorizing in Taiwan, examining the influence of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism on Taiwanese society. It explores the concept of "emptiness" and " interconnectedness" in these religious traditions, as well as their relevance to social theorizing in Taiwan. The chapter also discusses the role of religion in shaping social movements

Chapter 5 delves into the literary dimensions of social theorizing in Taiwan, examining the works of influential writers such as Li Ang, Han Hsiang Li, and Yang Mu. It explores the concept of "language" and "power" in Taiwanese literature, as well as the role of literature in shaping social and cultural norms and values. The chapter also discusses the impact of globalization on literary production and the development of new literary forms and genres.

In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the theoretical landscape of self, culture, and society in contemporary Taiwan. It highlights the rich diversity of perspectives and ideas that have emerged from this unique cultural context, shedding light on the global significance of Taiwanese theorizing. By mapping the field of theorizing in a broader spectrum of philosophy, psychology, religion, social sciences, and humanities, this book seeks to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the complexities of the human condition and the transformative power of social theorizing.

Weight: 611g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811906831
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022