Zhang Zai’s Philosophy of Qi

Qi ¿ ("vital energy") is one of the most important concepts in Chinese philosophy and culture, and neo-Confucian Zhang Zai (1020-1077) plays a pivotal role in developing the notion. An investigation of his philosophy of qi is not confined to his particularity, but sheds light upon the notion of qi as it is understood within Chinese and East Asian thought in general. Yet, his position has not been given a thorough philosophical analysis in contemporary times. The purpose of this book is to provide a thorough and proper understanding of Zhang Zai's philosophy of qi. Zhang Zai's Philosophy of Qi: A Practical Understanding focuses on the practical argument underlying Zhang Zai's development of qi that emphasizes the endeavor to create meaningful coherence amongst our differences through mutual communication and transformation. In addition to this, the book compares and engages Zhang Zai's philosophy of qi with John Dewey's philosophy of aesthetic experience in order to make Zhang Zai's position more plausible and relevant to the contemporary Western audience.

Chapter One: Introducing the Notion Qi, the Philosopher Zhang Zai, and the Text Zhengmeng (Rectifying the Ignorant)Chapter Two: Zhang Zai's Critique of the BuddhistChapter Three: Zhang Zai's Vertical Development of Qi and His Critique of the BuddhistChapter Four: Zhang Zai's Critique of the Ordinary PersonChapter Five: Zhang Zai's Horizontal Development of Qi and His Critique of the Ordinary PersonChapter Six: Zhang Zai and John Dewey on Realizing Vital HarmonyChapter Seven: Zhang Zai and S¿ Ky¿ngd¿k's Philosophy of Qi