About the book
The Penumbra Unbound is the first English language book-length study of the Neo-Taoist thinker Guo Xiang (d. 312 C.E.), commentator on the classic Taoist text, the Zhuangzi. The author explores Guo's philosophy of freedom and spontaneity, explains its coherence and importance, and shows its influence on later Chinese philosophy, particularly Chan Buddhism. The implications of his thought on freedom versus determinism are also considered in comparison to several positions advanced in the history of Western philosophy, notably those of Spinoza, Kant, Schopenhauer, Fichte, and Hegel. Guo's thought reinterprets the classical pronouncements about the Tao so that it in no way signifies any kind of metaphysical absolute underlying appearances, but rather means literally \"nothing.\" This absence of anything beyond appearances is the first premise in Guo's development of a theory of radical freedom, one in which all phenomenal things are \"self-so,\" creating and transforming themselves without depending on any justification beyond their own temporary being.
Editions of The Penumbra Unbound
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780791456613
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780791456620
- PDF
- ISBN 9780791487167
Read an Excerpt
The Penumbra Unbound is the first English language book-length study of the Neo-Taoist thinker Guo Xiang (d. 312 C.E.), commentator on the classic Taoist text, the Zhuangzi. The author explores Guo's philosophy of freedom and spontaneity, explains its coherence and importance, and shows its influence on later Chinese philosophy, particularly Chan Buddhism. The implications of his thought on freedom versus determinism are also considered in comparison to several positions advanced in the history of Western philosophy, notably those of Spinoza, Kant, Schopenhauer, Fichte, and Hegel. Guo's thought reinterprets the classical pronouncements about the Tao so that it in no way signifies any kind of metaphysical absolute underlying appearances, but rather means literally \"nothing.\" This absence of anything beyond appearances is the first premise in Guo's development of a theory of radical freedom, one in which all phenomenal things are \"self-so,\" creating and transforming themselves without depending on any justification beyond their own temporary being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Penumbra Unbound about?
The Penumbra Unbound is the first English language book-length study of the Neo-Taoist thinker Guo Xiang (d. 312 C.E.), commentator on the classic Taoist text, the Zhuangzi. The author explores Guo's philosophy of freedom and spontaneity, explains its coherence and importance, and shows its influence on later Chinese philosophy, particularly Chan Buddhism. The implications of his thought on freedom versus determinism are also considered in comparison to several positions advanced in the history of Western philosophy, notably those of Spinoza, Kant, Schopenhauer, Fichte, and Hegel. Guo's thought reinterprets the classical pronouncements about the Tao so that it in no way signifies any kind of metaphysical absolute underlying appearances, but rather means literally \"nothing.\" This absence of anything beyond appearances is the first premise in Guo's development of a theory of radical freedom, one in which all phenomenal things are \"self-so,\" creating and transforming themselves without depending on any justification beyond their own temporary being.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Penumbra Unbound?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Further religions and spiritual beliefs, > East Asian religions and spiritual beliefs > Taoism
Where can I read a sample of The Penumbra Unbound?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791456613
How long is The Penumbra Unbound and how many pages does it have?
The Penumbra Unbound has 196 page(s)
Is The Penumbra Unbound part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Chinese Philosophy and Culture
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Penumbra Unbound?
Brook Ziporyn
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Penumbra Unbound is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791456613) and paperback(ISBN 9780791456620) and pdf(ISBN 9780791487167)
Where can I buy The Penumbra Unbound online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Penumbra Unbound from below
Where can I buy The Penumbra Unbound?