The Analects of Confucius

The Sayings of Confucius — also known as the Analects — has been a cornerstone of Chinese philosophical and ethical thought for millennia. Scholars of Confucian philosophy believe that the thinker's speeches, collected here in a single volume, were broadly influential in Chinese society as early as the Han period, between 206 BC and 220 AD. However, Confucius' wisdom had certainly been transmitted for centuries before this point, and it is believed that the first Analects were compiled by the philosopher's disciples sometime after his death in 479 BC.

In his speeches, Confucius outlined his ideas for the proper systems of government, social responsibility, education, and other matters relating to life, personal understanding, and broader community spirit. His positive view of humanity and the ethical fiber that supports our society is a comforting one, and provides significant food for thought in what can seem like a relentlessly troubling and pessimistic world. This volume of Confucian thoughts is translated into English by Lionel Giles, working from the original Chinese writing system of the Western Zhou period.