学 (Learning/Study) as a Key Concept in Pre-Qin China: A Case Study of Mencius (372–289 BC)

• In Event: Roundtable Session 52
  In Roundtable Session: On Learning, Thinking, and Being: Asian Wisdoms and Western Philosophies

Abstract

The study is a historical study, focusing on the case of Mencius to examine the concept of learning (学). The study looked closely at the concept 学 as it was conceived by Mencius (372-289BC), intending to capture the shifts of the concept 学 from Confucius to Mencius, scrutinizing Mencius’ writing styles, and highlighting the socio-cultural contexts that resonated in Mencius as a Confucian士. In a historical document analysis tradition, the study explored how Mencius conceptually and practically expanded and concretized some aspects of 学 as previously advocated by Confucius. It also highlighted the role social and cultural contexts in the shifts of this particular educational concept 学. Some implications for the current education are suggested.

Author

• Liqing Tao, College of Staten Island - CUNY