For
each of the four response papers, you must write at least three typed
and double spaced pages on a topic of your choice that concerns the
material we have covered in the class so far. Do not spend time
summarizing the material, but rather focus on your own thoughts and
questions. You are welcome to use your own life experiences as well as
fictional and nonfictional material from outside class. While you are
welcome to reflect on anything you have found interesting, the following
are possible topics for your response.
You
are welcome to write a two to three page typed double spaced paper on
any topic you choose concerning Mozi, Hui Shi, Gongsun Long, the Daoists
(Laozi, Zhuangzi & Liezi), and the strategists (Sunzi, Musashi
& Tsunetomo). Possible topics include:
1)
Mozi argues for universal love versus the Confucians such as Mencius
who argue that love is naturally varied depending on familiarity. Are
the two positions compatible? Is one more favorable than the other?
2)
Hui Shi and Gongsun Long use paradoxes to show the complexity of human
grammar and meaning. Are they successful? What do these paradoxes show
us?
3)
The Daoists use metaphors to show that "a sage's that has a this". Pick
a metaphor from the three texts and show how it illustrates this and
applies to life.
4)
Much of the advice of the strategists fits together with teachings of
Daoism. What does it mean that these teachings can be applied to war as
well as peace of mind?
