Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/intellectual-change-early-china-the-warring-states-han
If you’re intrigued by the rich tapestry of Chinese cultural history, the Coursera course “Intellectual Change in Early China: Warring States and Han” is a must-take. This course offers a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding the evolution of rationality in China, focusing on the significant paradigm shifts that occurred during the Warring States and Han periods.
The course is structured into four modules, each delving into critical aspects of Chinese intellectual history. The first module, “A Critical Cultural History of China – Introduction,” sets the stage by outlining the key concepts and historical context, starting from the Warring States period (481-256 BCE).
In the second module, “Attack on Shamanism,” learners will explore the intellectual elite’s critique of traditional religious practices, such as divination and shamanism. This module is particularly fascinating as it highlights the cultural tensions between emerging philosophical thought and established religious traditions.
The third module, “The Emergence of Self-Cultivation Practice,” introduces two pivotal forms of self-cultivation: Confucianism and Daoism. Understanding these practices is essential for grasping the philosophical underpinnings that shaped Chinese society.
The course continues with “The Philosophical Preparation of Political Unity,” where students will learn about the concept of transcendence as it relates to the political and cosmological ideas of the time. This module provides insight into how philosophical thought influenced governance and societal structure.
Finally, the course concludes with a module on “Han Religion,” which examines the interplay between local and imperial religious practices during the Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). Additionally, the module on “Changing Theories of Illness” discusses how new healing theories emerged in response to social and political crises, showcasing the dynamic nature of intellectual thought.
Overall, this course is not just an academic endeavor; it is a journey through the evolution of thought that has shaped one of the world’s oldest civilizations. The instructors are knowledgeable, and the course materials are well-organized, making complex ideas accessible to learners of all backgrounds.
I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in philosophy, history, or cultural studies. It provides a comprehensive understanding of how intellectual change influenced the trajectory of Chinese civilization, making it a valuable addition to your learning portfolio.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/intellectual-change-early-china-the-warring-states-han