Ballantine Books - Book Report/Review Example

Analects of Confucius Ames & Rosemont present a summarized preview to the writings, which are believed to be the postulates of one of the most celebrated and recognized thinkers in Asia and increasingly in the world. The authors of the book, The Analects of Confucius, believe that those who read this book will be embarking on a journey along the Confucian path or way (Ames 3). In essence, the authors believe that the Confucian texts represent a highly navigable and eminently capable of guiding individuals to higher level or state of self-enlightenment and betterment (Ames 8).

The book is presents a philosophical approach and introduction in order to make the reader realize early on that Confucius was basing his postulates on pure human inclinations. These inclines made the Confucian way or path appeal or applicable in all realms of human life because it permeated all spheres of the Chinese way of life. The authors want the reader to understand the perspective and point of view that the philosopher was basing his postulates upon in an attempt to ease their understanding of the text.

According to the Confucian way, the world and its inhabitants are regarded as one entity but there are confounds that make the feasibility of this unity difficult to achieve. These confounds are elements of natural human nature which Confucius tried to harmonize in a manner that these conflicting ideologies could be harnessed for the greater good. Through his teachings, Confucius believed that the observance of cultural practices, rituals and rites was a means of attaining a higher sense servitude to self and the world (Ames 117).

Confucianism forwards a philosophical approach towards political and socioeconomic matters that ensures beneficial mutual success. Rather than the rule of law and force, Confucius sought to refocus the attention of people towards the foundations of Chinese culture. These foundations of mutual respect for the elderly and the adherence to traditional practices were meant to promote and maintain the harmony between their community and the rest of the natural order (Ames 154).  Ames & Rosemont recommend that readers of the Analects of Confucianism acknowledge and appreciate the critical and important role that Confucius played in philosophy.

The Chinese daily life, government, thought and culture have been greatly influenced and shaped by the singular efforts of Confucius teachings and philosophy (Ames 87). The authors strive to illustrate Confucius’ role in protecting and enhancing the heritage of the Chinese civilization as an enduring symbol of their identity. The authors effectively bring out Confucianism’s tolerance to divergent views and opinions exhibited by other thinkers and philosophers. The introductory part of The Analects of Confucianism is presented as a historical analogy to the present understanding and role played by the everyday philosophies that Confucius laid down.

In the later part of the book, Ames & Rosemont present a compare and contrast presentation with what they term as Western style readers and approaches to understanding Confucianism. The use of figurative language to emphasize the resilience and the dynamic nature of Confucianism in the event of protracted efforts to diminish its influence and impact on people has been effectively used. Confucianism is cited to have risen and reasserted itself with renewed strength and substance (Ames 213). The personification of Confucianism is appropriately used to enhance the meaningful role that this philosophy played in the culture and lives of those who observed its teachings.

The authors use a persuasive approach to convince the readers the potential held by the philosophies within the text to transform their lives upon closer reflection of the significance of the text. This postulate is augmented by the construed belief in the modern day significance and application of Confucianism in daily life which transverses political and socioeconomic elements of life. The key propositions of the book point to the overall block story in the book where the authors recommend a deeper reflection on the contents and themes of Confucianism.

This is meant to help the reader attain a more conversant meaning of the Confucian philosophy in relation their daily lives. The authors draw examples from a wide array of everyday aspects and features like trees and manmade implements, which they attach greater meaning not just the daily superficial perceptions. The introduction of substantiality and non-substantiality seems to be the most profound element of their presentation in this book because it forms the basis of their campaign for Confucianism (Ames 123).

Substantiality is seen as the core virtue or element that is prerequisite to understanding and benefiting from Confucianism because it opens up one’s being to harmony. The unification of man and nature through cultural discipline and adherence is attributed to the success of Confucianism. Work Cited Ames, R. T. The Analects of Confucius: A Philosophical Translation. London: Random House Publishing Group. 2010. Print.