The Early Confucian Philosophy of Agency: Virtuous Conduct

Early Confucianism's philosophy of agency emphasizes virtuous conduct, aligning actions and motivations with virtues, social roles, and rituals. It is a progressive philosophy that promotes social reform, self-cultivation, and the development of agents who can lead each other in self-cultivation, social environment, and polity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2024
Publisher: Lexington Books

Early Confucian philosophy of agency presents a novel perspective on the understanding of the three influential thinkers, Confucius, Mencius, and Xunzi. By viewing them as virtue-ethicists, political philosophers, or social conservatives, Schneider contends that such a narrow interpretation fails to capture the full depth and complexity of their ideas. In his book, "The Early Confucian Philosophy of Agency: Virtuous Conduct," Schneider advocates for a broader and more philosophical approach to these thinkers.

Virtuous conduct, as the central philosophy of agency in Early Confucianism, revolves around aligning actions and motivations with virtues, social roles, and rituals. This approach goes beyond a mere description of agents and acts, as it represents a progressive social and political program. Confucius, Mencius, and Xunzi share a common philosophy of agency, which encompasses not only a description of agents and acts but also a vision for social reform.

Schneider characterizes Early Confucianism as a progressive philosophy due to its human-centered program for social reform. It emphasizes the importance of self-cultivation and personal development, recognizing that individuals can cultivate themselves and become virtuous. Through this process, individuals can flourish and contribute to the betterment of society and the polity.

Virtuous conduct integrates ethics, social and political philosophy, and provides a theory of action that guides individuals in their interactions with others and their pursuit of a virtuous life. It emphasizes the importance of moral behavior, social harmony, and political order, and encourages individuals to lead by example and inspire others to follow their path.

In conclusion, Schneider's book "The Early Confucian Philosophy of Agency: Virtuous Conduct" offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the three Early Confucian thinkers. By advocating for a broader and more philosophical reading, he sheds new light on a well-established topic and presents a progressive social and political program that resonates with contemporary concerns. Through the philosophy of agency, Early Confucianism provides a valuable framework for individuals to cultivate themselves, contribute to society, and strive for a virtuous life.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666928372