‘If names of things are not properly defined, words will not correspond to facts. When words do not correspond to facts, it is impossible to perfect anything.’
The Analects is the foundational text of Confucianism and is one of the most important and influential works in Chinese and Eastern philosophy. The book takes the form of a collection of discourses and sayings attributed to the great philosopher Confucius and his contemporaries. Traditionally believed to have been written and compiled by Confucius’ followers during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), it continues to have a substantial influence on Chinese and East Asian thought and morality today. Also included in this volume is The Doctrine of the Mean, a text attributed to Zisi, the grandson of Confucius.
Both The Analects and The Doctrine of the Mean in this volume are translated by Gu Hongming, a British Malaya born Chinese man of letters. His translation is accessible and easy to understand while keeping both the substance and style of the original texts.
Confucius (孔子) was a Chinese philosopher and political theorist of the Spring and Autumn period whose ideas have a profound influence on Chinese and East Asian civilisations.
Gu Hongming (辜鸿铭) was a British Malaya born Chinese man of letters.