Taoism

ISBN-13: 9780415829427 / Angielski / Twarda / 2015 / 1368 str.

Russell Kirkland

Opis

These fifty-nine pioneering articles by scholars from around the world (17 women / 22 men) showcase recent advances in Taoist Studies. Instead of upholding conventional paradigms, these innovative studies expand our very concepts of Taoism by probing social and historical dimensions unimagined by twentieth-century minds. Overturning virtually all customary premises, they demonstrate Taoist activities by centuries of emperors, officials, literati, and women; Taoist involvement in medicine, the sciences, and the very origins of printing; Taoist art, architecture, music; even Taoists as healthcare providers. Rather than decaying in late-imperial or modern China, Taoism has continued to evolve and reach new audiences (for instance marketing age-old self-cultivation practices to educated men and women in today s urban settings).

A critical Introduction by Russell Kirkland (author of "Taoism: The Enduring Tradition" and co-editor of "Routledge Studies in Taoism") analyzes the Present Generation compared to earlier scholars. This collection offers today s freshest, most stimulating insights into Taoism s durability and rich diversity. It is an essential work of reference and is destined to be valued by scholars and advanced students as a vital research tool."