Eastern Philosophy

Huizi was an ancient Chinese thinker

Huizi (4th c. BCE): The Paradox Master of Ancient China

Yang Zhu, the 4th-century BCE founder of Yangism, championed self-preservation, natural enjoyment, and acceptance of death in defiance of duty-bound traditions — a radical reminder that life’s true worth lies in living authentically before it ends.

Yang Zhu

Yang Zhu (4th c. BCE) – The Philosopher of Self-Preservation

Yang Zhu, the 4th-century BCE founder of Yangism, championed self-preservation, natural enjoyment, and acceptance of death in defiance of duty-bound traditions — a radical reminder that life’s true worth lies in living authentically before it ends.

Liezi, also known as Lie Yukou

Liezi (c. 4th century BCE): The Daoist Storyteller of Shadows and Winds

Discover the extraordinary life and groundbreaking ideas of Wang Bi, a luminary in Chinese philosophy whose interpretations of Daoism and the Book of Changes have influenced generations of thinkers. Explore his profound understanding of the nature of existence and the complexities of life, and be inspired by his enduring quest for wisdom.

Zhuangzi (c. 369–286 BCE): Skeptic, Storyteller, Sage

Discover the extraordinary life and groundbreaking ideas of Wang Bi, a luminary in Chinese philosophy whose interpretations of Daoism and the Book of Changes have influenced generations of thinkers. Explore his profound understanding of the nature of existence and the complexities of life, and be inspired by his enduring quest for wisdom.

Xunzi - The Realist of Confucianism

Xunzi (c. 310-220 BCE): The Realist of Confucianism?

Xunzi argued that while people are naturally selfish, civilisation can be built through ritual, law, and discipline. Rituals, from mourning to music, were not empty gestures but tools for reshaping human desires, teaching restraint, and harmonising society. Unlike the Legalists who ruled through fear, Xunzi believed culture and tradition could bend human nature like wood shaped by steam — disciplined, refined, and made fit for order.

Mencius spoke with rulers such as King Xuan of Qi, King Hui of Liang, and King Xiang of Song

Mencius (c. 371–289 BCE): The Advocate of Innate Goodness

Mencius 孟子, also known as Mengzi, described as the Second Sage (亞聖), stands as one of the great interpreters of Confucian thought. Living during the Warring States period, he built upon Confucius’ teachings while adding his own distinctive voice, most notably his belief in the innate goodness of human nature.

Laozi: The Way of Simplicity

Discover the timeless wisdom of Confucius, a revered philosopher whose teachings on moral rectitude, social harmony, and ethical leadership continue to resonate today. Explore his profound insights into the human condition and how they can guide us in addressing pressing contemporary issues like social inequality and global cooperation.

image inspired by the article on Confucius. It visually captures the essence of his teachings and the serene wisdom he is known for. This image, with its blend of traditional Chinese elements and philosophical depth

Navigating Life with Confucius: Timeless Teachings, Enduring Wisdom

Discover the timeless wisdom of Confucius, a revered philosopher whose teachings on moral rectitude, social harmony, and ethical leadership continue to resonate today. Explore his profound insights into the human condition and how they can guide us in addressing pressing contemporary issues like social inequality and global cooperation.