Charlene Tan's text offers a coherent account of Confucius' educational thought and its implications for the modern world. Arguing that Confucius is more than an ancient master who emphasised tradition, rote-learning and teacher-centredness, Tan portrays Confucius as a progressive educator who challenged the social norms of his time and transformed the nature of teaching and learning in China and beyond.
Through a textual study of the Analects, this text provides a critical exposition of Confucius' work, particularly with respect to his interpretations of human beings' mission in life, potentials, relationships with one another, and educational process. Further highlighting the contemporary relevance of Confucius' work, the author offers a Confucian framework for 21st century education - one that harmonises modern knowledge and skills with universal values on shared humanity and loving others.

Charlene Tan is a Professor in Educational Policy and Leadership in the Faculty of Education at the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

Series Editor's Preface
Foreword
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Part I: Intellectual Biography
1. Confucius' Life, Personality and Influence
Part II: Critical Exposition of Confucius' Work
2. The Concept of Li
3. The Concepts of Dao and He
4. The Concept of Ren
5. The Concept of Junzi
6. The Concepts of Xue, Wen and Si
Part III: The Relevance of Confucius' Work Today
7. Confucius and 21st Century Education
8. Conclusion
References
Index