eLearnAfrica
Cultural Dialogues: An Intercultural Reading of The Analects and Tao Te Ching
Shanghai International Studies University (SISU)
  • Start Date: 08 Jan, 2024
  • 6 weeks
  • Study Content: Videos


Delve into two of the most influential philosophical texts in human history to understand traditional and modern Chinese culture.

Course Fee: Free
Certificate Cost: See Fees and Eligibility
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Course Description

Get to grips with the Chinese classics The Analects and Tao Te Ching


The Analects (497 BC) and Tao Te Ching are two of the most influential philosophical texts in human history. They provide the basis for the social and spiritual belief system in China.


On this six-week course from Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), you’ll take an intercultural approach to reading these two classics. Tracing their social and cultural influence back over centuries, you’ll understand why the texts are vital for understanding traditional and modern China.


Examine the fundamental principles of Taoism and Confucianism


Contained in the two classic texts are the ideas of Confucius and the tenets of Taoist philosophy. As you progress through the course, you’ll examine the philosophical frameworks and principles that underpin Taoism and Confucianism.


From Confucian attitudes towards family relations to essential Taoist terminology and concepts, you’ll gain the knowledge you need to make sense of the two belief systems.


Compare and contrast other philosophical classics


To place The Analects and Tao Te Ching in context, you’ll read them in relation to other classic philosophical texts.


You’ll compare and contrast works by philosophers in the Western tradition and beyond, including Plato, Aristotle, Tagore, and others. This will help to explain and correct some misconceptions surrounding Chinese culture.


Understand how the two classics have shaped modern Chinese culture


Even centuries later, the influence of the two classics continues to be visible in China today. Over the six weeks of the course, you’ll gain an understanding of how The Analects and Tao Te Ching have shaped Chinese history, politics, and wider society.


You’ll finish the course with a greater sensitivity to cultural diversity and enhanced intercultural communication skills.


This course is designed for anyone interested in learning more about Chinese culture and the belief systems that underpin it. The course helps to explain cultural differences and correct misconceptions.


It will also be useful for learners within China who want a basis for explaining their culture to people from other countries.


    • Certificate cost may vary. You will be redirected to the host page for cost and payment options.

    • Shanghai International Studies University (SISU)

      Shanghai International Studies University (SISU), established in 1949, is one of the earliest institutions where China’s higher education in foreign languages took shape.

      SISU is an internationally recognised, prestigious academic institution distinctive for its multidisciplinary, globalised nature, committed to preparing innovative professionals and future torchbearers for a wide range of international expertise to address the critical challenges of our times.

      As a globalised and top-notch university in China, SISU has successfully developed a diverse and distinctive mix of disciplines with language and literature as its pillar. The university offers 25 foreign language degree programmes and 13 non-linguistic degree programmes. At present, the University runs 41 master’s degree programs, 14 doctoral programs and 2 postdoctoral stations.

      Currently, SISU has a full-time enrolment of over 1,400 postgraduate students, including more than 200 doctoral students.

      SISU has now established partnerships with more than 300 universities and institutions from 55 countries and regions. Over the past five years, around 4,000 international students have been enrolled each year in SISU Chinese language programs or other degree schemes.

       

    • You may be able to download course materials after enrolling in this course. If not, all of the necessary course materials provided by the course instructor will be available on the provider's course page.
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