The “Other” and the “Self”: The Modern Interpretation of Chinese Philosophy from a Global Philosophical Perspective—A Review of The Methodology of Chinese Philosophy: How to Engage with “Chinese Philosophy”

This book addresses the contested “legitimacy” of Chinese philosophy, arguing the debate is misdirected. The author, Peng Guoxiang, contends that the field’s priority is to establish its own “subjectivity”—an autonomous paradigm grounded in Chinese culture and discourse. The work outlines key methodologies for this task, emphasizing textual mastery, Western philosophical literacy, and a global comparative perspective. It analyzes exemplary 20th-century scholars to advocate for a dual approach: integrating Western concepts into Chinese frameworks and using Chinese thought to engage Western philosophical questions. Moving beyond disciplinary boundaries, the book connects the future of Chinese philosophy research to the integrative study of intellectual history, proposing a path for its renewal and global contribution.