This companion is the first comprehensive study in the English language of the Lüshi Chunqiu 吕氏春秋 – the 3rd BCE Chinese literary gem devoted to political philosophy, and the art of rulership. Leading scholars from North America, Europe, Australia, and East Asia investigate the work’s literary form, rhetorical strategies, metaphysics, leadership theory, and reception in imperial, and modern China. The volume offers a robust analysis of how different philosophical and political concepts and influences were welded together by the work’s authors to create a coherent philosophy of ideal, moral rulership of All Under Heaven. The Lüshi Chunqiu has for centuries suffered the fate of a work of secondary importance in China. Quite unfortunately labelled “miscellaneous” or “eclectic”, it was read as nothing more than a derivative of the pre-Qin Masters. In fact, it is a highly original and coherent work, presenting concepts developed from Daoist, Confucian, Legalist, Yin-yang, Mohist, and other traditions. This companion presents the latest research on this remarkable but little-known work, showing a versatile, all-inclusive look at the Chinese political and ethical thought of 3rd century BCE, just before the establishment of the Empire. It appeals to students and researchers and provides unique insights into the very foundations of Chinese political philosophy, as well as valued inspiration for the modern theory and practice of leadership.
