While many published studies compare ancient Greek and Chinese philosophy, such studies usually start by identifying some set of ideas in the Greek texts, and then argue that one can find the same or similar ideas on the Chinese side. In this talk, Professor Hutton reverses that direction of comparison and use Chinese ideas—and in particular early Confucian views—as a lens to re-examine Greek philosophy, starting with Plato. Through this method, he aims to show how Confucian perspectives can unearth new interpretive insights about Western philosophical texts, and how this process can also aid us in thinking more deeply about the Confucian views themselves.

Eric L. Hutton is Associate Professor of Philosophy at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, where he has been teaching since 2002. His research focuses on early Confucianism and comparative studies of ancient Greek and Chinese philosophy, especially on the topic of ethics. His major publications include a translation, "Xunzi: The Complete Text" (Princeton University Press, 2014), and an edited volume, the "Dao Companion to the Philosophy of Xunzi" (Springer, 2016). He is also co-editor (with Justin Tiwald) of the new translation series "Oxford Chinese Thought."

If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to attend this event, please reach out to us at least 2 weeks in advance of this event. Please be aware that advance notice is necessary as some accommodations may require more time for the university to arrange. Email us at chinese.studies@umich.edu.