Cultural Writing. Philosophy. Asian Studies. Compiled by Kuijie Zhou. This book offers an introduction to the sayings of Confucius, whose wisdom has acted as one of the founding pillars of Chinese society for thousands of years. Far more than a collection of interesting sayings, A BASIC CONFUCIUS offers an essential guide to individual cultivation and philosophical contemplation for those new to ancient Chinese philosophy. Confucian thought best represents the paradigm of Chinese philosophical thinking. Born in 550 B.C., Confucius lived during a time of great political and social uncertainty in Chinese history. His teachings concerning rules for social conduct, honesty, morality, and filial piety have been handed down from one generation to the next and are some of the most respected social traditions in world history. His words are as valid today as they were more than two thousand years ago.