This Source Book is devoted to the purpose of providing such a basis for genuine understanding of Chinese thought (and thereby of Chinese life and culture, ...

The first essay, "Harmony and Conflict in Chinese Philosophy," by Derk Bodde, treats the subjects of the cosmic pattern, the pattern of history, good and evil, the harmonization of social classes, peace and war, the harmonizing of opposites, and the sage. To those who want a bird's eye view of Chinese philosophy on these questions, the article is highly recommended. It is also an excellent summary of Fung Yu-lan's History of Chinese Philosophy, which Bodde has translated into English, with respect (...) to these concepts. With certain exceptions all materials are drawn from Fung and summary references to Fung's book are frankly given at the end of many paragraphs. Most works available in English translation are also cited according to quotations made from them in Fung. (shrink)