Reading Primary Sources in Asian Political Philosophy : A Guide

A practical and succinct reading guide to the philosophy of classic and modern political texts from Asia.

Organized around a selection of texts from across Asia, this is an introduction to political thinkers and themes in the Asian philosophical tradition. Texts engage with topics from feminism to Chinese legalism and colonial rule. They range from the 5th-century to the 1950s and come from Japan, China, Indian, Philippines and Taiwan, providing an unrivalled insight into political thought in the region.

The focus throughout is on how to read the texts. Tacking complex ideas and unknown concepts, each chapter follows the same format. The historical context is provided before the central themes and arguments are discussed. An excerpt from the text is accompanied by a close reading of the main ideas which unpack the complexities. A glossary and further reading suggestions give additional support.

For anyone coming to Asian philosophy for the first time, here are the skills and tools you need to read and understand political thinkers from across its history.