Short description:

When this classic volume was originally published in 1951, this volume was a new interpretation of the philosophy of one of the most influential Chinese thinkers. Twentieth century understanding of Confucius? thought was often based on the interpretations of commentaries which reflect a period three centuries later than that of Confucius. 

Long description:

Originally published in 1932, and therefore inevitably of its time, this book discusses the place of the intellect as a guide to religious truth.  The author's work brought principles from Quaker decision-making to bear on wider questions about democracy and religion. The author affirms that the ?Light Within?, although a personal endowment is not independent of the historical fact that spiritual geniuses in bygone ages have seen and testified and lived.

Original Reviews of Confucius:

?In this volume one finds scrupulous meticulosity.? David Gray Poston, Pacific Historical Review (1949) 18 (4)

?The result is a well-articulated portrayal of the life and times of Confucius, done with full cognizance of original sources and the critical issues they involve...There a formidable array of critical notes appears, paying serious attention to agreements and differences with authoritative scholars, both Chinese and Western?A conspicuous and admirable achievement in the field of Western Chinese studies. It is a work deserving of wide use..? Clarence H. Hamilton, Harvard Journal of Asiatic Studies, Vol. 12, No. 3/4 (1949)

??a full-length portrait of the man Confucius, based on a critical analysis of the existing authentic sources and with full knowledge of the extensive revaluation made by Chinese and Western scholars.? Arthur W. Hummel, The American Historical Review, Volume 55, Issue 1 (1949). 

Table of Contents:

Part 1: Background 1. Tradition and Truth 2. The Evidence 3. The China of Confucius Part 2: Confucius 4. Biography 5. The Man 6. The Disciples 7. The Teacher 8. The Scholar 9. The Philosopher 10. The Reformer Part 3: Confucianism 11. The ?Weaklings? 12. From Man to Myth 13. Disaster 14. ?Triumph? 15. Confucianism and Western Democracy 16. Confucius and the Republic of China. Postscript. Appendix: The Authenticity of the Analects.