About the book
This book discusses what a religiously grounded authority might look like from the viewpoints of the European Catholic Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274) and the Chinese Neo-Confucian Zhu Xi (1130–1200). The consideration of these two figures, immensely influential in their respective traditions, reflects the conviction that any responsible discourse on authority must consider different cultural perspectives. Catherine Hudak Klancer notes that both Zhu Xi and Aquinas conceive wisdom as including, yet surpassing, human reason. Both express an explicit faith in the moral order of the cosmos and the ethical potential of human beings. The systematic, idealistic approach common to both provides the cosmic, anthropological, and ethical elements needed for a comprehensive exploration of how to exercise and limit authority. Ultimately, Klancer writes, authority requires a particular virtue, hitherto latent in both scholars' work and in their lives as well. A person with this virtue—humble authority—is properly grounded in the sacred order, and fully cognizant in theory and in practice of the parameters of human nature and the responsibilities attendant upon the human role.
Editions of Embracing Our Complexity
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781438458410
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781438458403
- PDF
- ISBN 9781438458427
Read an Excerpt
This book discusses what a religiously grounded authority might look like from the viewpoints of the European Catholic Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274) and the Chinese Neo-Confucian Zhu Xi (1130–1200). The consideration of these two figures, immensely influential in their respective traditions, reflects the conviction that any responsible discourse on authority must consider different cultural perspectives. Catherine Hudak Klancer notes that both Zhu Xi and Aquinas conceive wisdom as including, yet surpassing, human reason. Both express an explicit faith in the moral order of the cosmos and the ethical potential of human beings. The systematic, idealistic approach common to both provides the cosmic, anthropological, and ethical elements needed for a comprehensive exploration of how to exercise and limit authority. Ultimately, Klancer writes, authority requires a particular virtue, hitherto latent in both scholars' work and in their lives as well. A person with this virtue—humble authority—is properly grounded in the sacred order, and fully cognizant in theory and in practice of the parameters of human nature and the responsibilities attendant upon the human role.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Embracing Our Complexity about?
This book discusses what a religiously grounded authority might look like from the viewpoints of the European Catholic Thomas Aquinas (1225–1274) and the Chinese Neo-Confucian Zhu Xi (1130–1200). The consideration of these two figures, immensely influential in their respective traditions, reflects the conviction that any responsible discourse on authority must consider different cultural perspectives. Catherine Hudak Klancer notes that both Zhu Xi and Aquinas conceive wisdom as including, yet surpassing, human reason. Both express an explicit faith in the moral order of the cosmos and the ethical potential of human beings. The systematic, idealistic approach common to both provides the cosmic, anthropological, and ethical elements needed for a comprehensive exploration of how to exercise and limit authority. Ultimately, Klancer writes, authority requires a particular virtue, hitherto latent in both scholars' work and in their lives as well. A person with this virtue—humble authority—is properly grounded in the sacred order, and fully cognizant in theory and in practice of the parameters of human nature and the responsibilities attendant upon the human role.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Embracing Our Complexity?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Religion: general > Comparative religion
Where can I read a sample of Embracing Our Complexity?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781438458410
How long is Embracing Our Complexity and how many pages does it have?
Embracing Our Complexity has 362 page(s)
Is Embracing Our Complexity 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 Embracing Our Complexity?
Catherine Hudak Klancer
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Embracing Our Complexity is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781438458410) and paperback(ISBN 9781438458403) and pdf(ISBN 9781438458427)
Where can I buy Embracing Our Complexity online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Embracing Our Complexity from below
Where can I buy Embracing Our Complexity?