This book argues that a distinct liberal tradition exists within Chinese intellectual history, not as an import from the West, but as an indigenous development. De Bary identifies this tradition through the recurring emphasis on individual moral autonomy and responsibility as a basis for political and social order. This concern with the self-cultivating individual, capable of reasoned moral choice and participation, forms the core of his analysis, demonstrating how Chinese thinkers grappled with questions of freedom and governance long before direct Western influence.
The text traces the evolution of this tradition, highlighting key thinkers and their contributions. It reveals how concepts of self-mastery, individual conscience, and the inherent dignity of the person provided a distinct Chinese perspective on what constitutes a just and free society. Readers will understand how these ideas were woven into the fabric of Chinese thought, offering a nuanced alternative to standard narratives of Chinese political philosophy.
Key concepts
- Individual moral autonomy — The capacity of a person to act according to their own moral judgments and principles, independent of external coercion.
- Self-cultivation — The continuous process of moral and intellectual improvement undertaken by an individual.
- Responsibility of the self — The ethical obligation an individual has to develop their moral character and contribute to social order.
- Liberalism in China — An indigenous tradition of thought emphasizing individual rights and freedoms, rooted in Chinese intellectual history.