The Self-Cultivation of the Chinese People
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Summary
Editor's review
The book's modern interpretation of "the doctrine of the mean" is especially compelling, pointing out that it is not compromise but the wisdom of dynamic balance. In a restless social environment, the book offers a complete system for cultivating one's inner nature: how to manage emotions, handle interpersonal relationships, and maintain spiritual independence in a utilitarian society. Compared with similar works, the book's uniqueness lies in its emphasis on "practical cultivation"; each chapter is accompanied by real-life scenarios, so that traditional cultural wisdom is no longer suspended in midair.
As an editor, I believe the part most worth reading closely is Part Three, "The Way of Conducting Oneself in the World," whose discussion of "a sense of proportion" precisely captures the essence of Chinese social culture. Drawing on decades of management consulting experience, Zeng Shiqiang points out that the root of many workplace dilemmas lies in insufficient cultivation rather than lack of ability. This perspective, which directly links personal cultivation with career development, elevates the book beyond ordinary humanities reading and gives it practical guidance value.
It should be noted that the book's discussion is based on the traditional Confucian framework, and some younger readers may need to read it critically in light of modern values. Overall, however, this is an excellent work that helps readers build cultural confidence and a spiritual anchor in a rapidly changing society, and its value will become ever more apparent as one's experience grows.
Who it's for
A good fit for
- Readers who hope to systematically understand the wisdom of traditional Chinese culture in conducting oneself in the world
- Professionals seeking balance between workplace relationships and personal cultivation
- Researchers interested in the modern transformation of Confucian thought
- Overseas Chinese in cultural conflict who need spiritual grounding
Not a good fit for
- Readers expecting subversive critiques of traditional culture
- Pragmatists seeking quick-fix success techniques
Reading tips
- It is suggested to begin with Chapter Two, 'Cultivating the Self as the Foundation,' to build a framework of understanding
- While reading, you may record insights in the margins in light of your own experience
- After finishing each part, you may pause for several days and observe opportunities for practice in real-life situations
About the publisher
Taibai Literature and Art Publishing House is a professional publisher focused on literature and art. Its publishing areas cover classics, foreign literature, essays and miscellaneous writings, modern poetry, philosophical reading, and social novels. Judging from the books in the database, the press introduces foreign literary classics such as John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath, Dostoevsky's The Insulted and Humiliated, Murasaki Shikibu's The Tale of Genji, and the complete novels of Jane Austen, while also publishing essay works such as Xiang Xing Za Ji: Huang Yongyu Illustrated Edition, modern poetry such as Zha Lie Zhi, and philosophical reading such as On the Art of Choice. Its translators and authors include Hu Zhongchi, Shao Quanlin, Feng Zikai, and Li Jihong, reflecting a publishing profile that combines classic translation with domestic literary creation. Due to limited public information, its complete publishing scope and features require further supplementation.
Contents
- 版权信息
- 序言 哲学更能解决难题
- 第一章 修己安人
- 中国人认为事在人为
- 中国人主张敬人敬己
- 安人之道贵在诚
- 修己安人的三大纲领
- 无为而治的理想
- 修身齐家，不忘立业
- 第二章 修身以道
- 他律与自律结合
- 正人先正己
- 身安才能心乐
- 安人的方法要随时空而调整
- 现代管理中的安人之法
- 第三章 兼善天下
- 孔子主张感化
- 孟子重视人的自力
- 朱子认为心要对应万事
- 第四章 从容中道
- 中道思想是中国人为人治事的基本信念
- 中道管理符合人性要求
- 执经达权，才能从容中道
- 第五章 兼顾情、理、法
- 所重在理
- 基础在法
- “摄礼归义”，合理必然合法
- “纳礼于仁”，凭良心就是合理
- 情、理、法即仁、义、礼的实践
- 实践中的情、理、法选择
- 第六章 守经达变
- 朝着既定目标，及时变通
- 容纳不同方法，消化整合
- “经权法”可以促进中国管理现代化
- 第七章 象棋模式
- 中国独有的象棋模式
- 建构适合中国人的管理模式
FAQ
How does this book differ from Zeng Shiqiang's other works, such as Chinese-Style Management?
Can readers without a foundation in Confucianism understand it?
Are the book's views too traditional and conservative?
Comments
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About the author
Zeng Shiqiang (1934–2018) was born in Zhangzhou, Fujian, and grew up in Taiwan. He held a PhD in management philosophy from the University of Leicester in the UK and was a professor at Taiwan Chiao Tung University. In 1979 he put forward the idea of "Chinese-style management," and he is known as the "father of Chinese-style management," an influential scholar and author in the Chinese-speaking management world. The library holds 75 of his works, covering management, motivational growth, social culture, and social science. Representative titles include Chinese-Style Management (Complete Edition), The Management Wisdom of the Chinese: Three Volumes, Flexible Interpersonal Relationships, The Great Way of Management, and The Square and Circle of Leadership (Updated Edition). He also appeared on CCTV's Lecture Room, presenting The Mystery of the I Ching and The Inspiration of Hu Xueyan, bringing traditional wisdom to modern management and life topics. His books combine scholarship with accessible writing and are widely read among Chinese readers.
