Introduction

Abstract

Confucianism played a determinant role in shaping the political ideology, social structure, intellectual outlook, human relationship, and general way of living among people in China and other East Asian countries during the past two millennia. Although with the demise of imperial China in 1911, the influence of Confucianism might have dwindled, its vitality has been continuously present in Chinese society and in societies in many parts of the world. For instance, many scholars attributed the rise of the East Asian economy in the 1980s to the virtues of this age-long tradition. In sharp contrast to its treatment of Confucianism during the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), China has recently begun to sponsor Confucian studies, restore Confucian temples, emphasize the importance of Confucian ethics, and rapidly establish Confucius Institutes overseas. Quite a few civil groups, including religious ones, both in China and Taiwan have been enthusiastic about promoting the recitation of the Confucian classics with the aim of retrieving what is fundamental in their cultural and spiritual heritage. As a living tradition and with a quick growth in importance, Confucianism has indeed assumed a new face in our global context that deserves our serious reevaluation.