Early mohist philosophy: reconstruction of its content and influence, deconstruction of its modern interpretation. KU Leuven
Mozi (ca. 479- 381) was the first outspoken critic of Confucius (551-479) and the aristocratic tradition. Despite its initial success, Mohism is supposed to have disappeared in the Han dynasty (ca. 200 B.C). Only in the early 20th century was Mozi rediscovered as the Chinese inventor of pragmatism and utilitarianism. Since the current interpretation of Mohism is thoroughly determined by this revival, this project combines a reconstruction of ...