Cosmology and Political Culture in Early China
Cosmology and Political Culture in Early China
This radical reinterpretation of the formative stages of Chinese culture and history traces the central role played by cosmology in the formation of China's early empires. It crosses the disciplines of history, social anthropology, archaeology and philosophy to illustrate how cosmological systems, particularly the Five Elements, shaped political culture. By focusing on dynamic change in early cosmology, the book undermines the notion that Chinese cosmology was homogeneous and unchanging. By arguing that cosmology was intrinsic to power relations, it also challenges prevailing theories of political and intellectual history.
- Innovative exploration of the mutual transformation of cosmology and political power in Chinese history
- Demonstrates that cosmology constituted power relations rather than merely symbolizing power
- Multidisciplinary approach, synthesizing anthropology, history, archaeology and philosophy
Product details
November 2006Paperback
9780521027496
256 pages
228 × 152 × 17 mm
0.387kg
15 b/w illus. 2 maps 10 tables
Available
Table of Contents
- List of illustrations
- List of tables
- Acknowledgements
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Sifang and the center: the cosmology of the ruling clan
- 3. Wuxing: cosmology in historical transition
- 4. Moralizing cosmology and transforming imperial sovereignty
- 5. Contesting emperorship: the center of the cosmos and pivot of power
- Conclusion: cosmology and power reconsidered
- List of abbreviations
- Works cited
- Index.
