Christopher Hood and Martin Lodge
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780199269679
- eISBN:
- 9780191604096
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/019926967X.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, Comparative Politics
This chapter explores the competency dimension of public service bargains, in the sense of skills, ability, or experience. It discusses four types of competency bargains: wonk, sage, deliverer, and ...
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This chapter explores the competency dimension of public service bargains, in the sense of skills, ability, or experience. It discusses four types of competency bargains: wonk, sage, deliverer, and go-between bargains, exploring their strengths and weaknesses. The chapter notes how elements from these four types can be combined and concludes with a discussion of trends and changes over time, which suggest that tendencies have been far from a one way adoption of managerialist themes of ‘delivery’.Less
This chapter explores the competency dimension of public service bargains, in the sense of skills, ability, or experience. It discusses four types of competency bargains: wonk, sage, deliverer, and go-between bargains, exploring their strengths and weaknesses. The chapter notes how elements from these four types can be combined and concludes with a discussion of trends and changes over time, which suggest that tendencies have been far from a one way adoption of managerialist themes of ‘delivery’.
Joseph Blenkinsopp
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198755036
- eISBN:
- 9780191695131
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198755036.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies, Judaism
This new edition has been considerably expanded to take in work on the legal and didactic material published since the 1980s. It gives more attention to the different literary genres used by Israel's ...
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This new edition has been considerably expanded to take in work on the legal and didactic material published since the 1980s. It gives more attention to the different literary genres used by Israel's sages, and to the social settings in which the material came into existence and circulated. References to relevant archaeological data have also been brought up to date. The main purpose of the book, however, remains the same – to trace the course of two related key streams of tradition, law, and wisdom throughout the history of Israel in the biblical period, and to demonstrate their essential lines of continuity with classical Jewish thought and early Christian theology.Less
This new edition has been considerably expanded to take in work on the legal and didactic material published since the 1980s. It gives more attention to the different literary genres used by Israel's sages, and to the social settings in which the material came into existence and circulated. References to relevant archaeological data have also been brought up to date. The main purpose of the book, however, remains the same – to trace the course of two related key streams of tradition, law, and wisdom throughout the history of Israel in the biblical period, and to demonstrate their essential lines of continuity with classical Jewish thought and early Christian theology.
Ian Ker
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780199569106
- eISBN:
- 9780191702044
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199569106.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, History of Christianity
This full-length life of John Henry Newman is a comprehensive biography of both the man and the thinker and writer. It draws extensively on material from Newman's letters and papers. Newman's ...
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This full-length life of John Henry Newman is a comprehensive biography of both the man and the thinker and writer. It draws extensively on material from Newman's letters and papers. Newman's character is revealed in its complexity and contrasts: the legendary sadness and sensitivity are placed in their proper perspective by being set against his no less striking qualities of exuberance, humour, and toughness. The book attempts to do justice to the fullness of Newman's achievement and genius: the Victorian “prophet” or “sage”, who ranks among the major English prose writers; the dominating religious figure of the nineteenth century, who can now be recognised as the forerunner of the Second Vatican Council and the modern ecumenical movement; and finally, the universal Christian thinker, whose significance transcends his culture and time.Less
This full-length life of John Henry Newman is a comprehensive biography of both the man and the thinker and writer. It draws extensively on material from Newman's letters and papers. Newman's character is revealed in its complexity and contrasts: the legendary sadness and sensitivity are placed in their proper perspective by being set against his no less striking qualities of exuberance, humour, and toughness. The book attempts to do justice to the fullness of Newman's achievement and genius: the Victorian “prophet” or “sage”, who ranks among the major English prose writers; the dominating religious figure of the nineteenth century, who can now be recognised as the forerunner of the Second Vatican Council and the modern ecumenical movement; and finally, the universal Christian thinker, whose significance transcends his culture and time.
Richard Kalmin
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2006
- ISBN:
- 9780195306194
- eISBN:
- 9780199784998
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195306198.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Judaism
This chapter continues the examination of rabbinic depictions of the past and the light they shed on the rabbinic present. It describes the differences between Palestinian and Babylonian rabbinic ...
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This chapter continues the examination of rabbinic depictions of the past and the light they shed on the rabbinic present. It describes the differences between Palestinian and Babylonian rabbinic narratives that purport to portray events of the second Temple period. It shows that Babylonian portrayals emphasize the importance of rabbis, especially at the expense of kings, in particular depicting sages rather than kings in control of the priests and the Temple cult. Palestinian rabbinic portrayals, on the other hand, tend to assign to rabbis a less prominent role and allow for a greater role for kings.Less
This chapter continues the examination of rabbinic depictions of the past and the light they shed on the rabbinic present. It describes the differences between Palestinian and Babylonian rabbinic narratives that purport to portray events of the second Temple period. It shows that Babylonian portrayals emphasize the importance of rabbis, especially at the expense of kings, in particular depicting sages rather than kings in control of the priests and the Temple cult. Palestinian rabbinic portrayals, on the other hand, tend to assign to rabbis a less prominent role and allow for a greater role for kings.
Michel Mohr
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195304671
- eISBN:
- 9780199866861
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195304671.003.0008
- Subject:
- Religion, Buddhism
Chapter 7 describes the history and contemporary standing of a political ritual practiced in most Japanese Zen monasteries and temples today. This hour long ritual—Shukushin (Invoking the Sage)—is ...
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Chapter 7 describes the history and contemporary standing of a political ritual practiced in most Japanese Zen monasteries and temples today. This hour long ritual—Shukushin (Invoking the Sage)—is performed at least twenty‐six times each year throughout Japan. The concept of the sage can be traced back from classical Daoism and the practice of rituals on behalf of the well‐being and long life of the emperor through early Chinese Buddhist sources up through the Sung dynasty Ch'an school. Describing the ritual as it is performed today in Japan, the essay shows how continuity of ritual tradition is maintained in Zen even into the postwar era in which the emperor's role in maintaining the prosperity and well‐being of the nation is minimal.Less
Chapter 7 describes the history and contemporary standing of a political ritual practiced in most Japanese Zen monasteries and temples today. This hour long ritual—Shukushin (Invoking the Sage)—is performed at least twenty‐six times each year throughout Japan. The concept of the sage can be traced back from classical Daoism and the practice of rituals on behalf of the well‐being and long life of the emperor through early Chinese Buddhist sources up through the Sung dynasty Ch'an school. Describing the ritual as it is performed today in Japan, the essay shows how continuity of ritual tradition is maintained in Zen even into the postwar era in which the emperor's role in maintaining the prosperity and well‐being of the nation is minimal.
Yulia Ustinova
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- January 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199548569
- eISBN:
- 9780191720840
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199548569.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Ancient Greek, Roman, and Early Christian Philosophy
In ancient Greece, a common method of search for divine wisdom was to descend into caves or underground chambers. Entering caves persistently appears as a major requirement for prophecy-giving, both ...
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In ancient Greece, a common method of search for divine wisdom was to descend into caves or underground chambers. Entering caves persistently appears as a major requirement for prophecy-giving, both in established cults and in the activities of individual seers. Underground sojourns recur in the activities of several early Greek sages and philosophers. Mystery initiations comprise rites located in caves or dark chambers. The sages, seers, and initiates shared a quest for hidden truth, which they attained as revelation or vision. Exploring the reasons for the predilection for caves in the search for ultimate truth, this book juxtaposes ancient testimonies with the results of modern neuroscience. This approach, new in Classical Studies, enables an examination of the consciousness of people who were engaged in the vision quest. It is argued that cave environment creates conditions which force the human mind to deviate from its normal waking state and to enter altered states of consciousness, in many cases leading to the sensation of ineffable revelation of ultimate reality. Altered states of consciousness often occur in people exposed to sensory deprivation. As a result, various mediators between gods and mortals practice prolonged isolation in caves and other closed spaces in their quest of ecstatic illumination. The book demonstrates that multiple cave experiences of the Greeks are culturally patterned responses to the states determined by the neurology of the human brain.Less
In ancient Greece, a common method of search for divine wisdom was to descend into caves or underground chambers. Entering caves persistently appears as a major requirement for prophecy-giving, both in established cults and in the activities of individual seers. Underground sojourns recur in the activities of several early Greek sages and philosophers. Mystery initiations comprise rites located in caves or dark chambers. The sages, seers, and initiates shared a quest for hidden truth, which they attained as revelation or vision. Exploring the reasons for the predilection for caves in the search for ultimate truth, this book juxtaposes ancient testimonies with the results of modern neuroscience. This approach, new in Classical Studies, enables an examination of the consciousness of people who were engaged in the vision quest. It is argued that cave environment creates conditions which force the human mind to deviate from its normal waking state and to enter altered states of consciousness, in many cases leading to the sensation of ineffable revelation of ultimate reality. Altered states of consciousness often occur in people exposed to sensory deprivation. As a result, various mediators between gods and mortals practice prolonged isolation in caves and other closed spaces in their quest of ecstatic illumination. The book demonstrates that multiple cave experiences of the Greeks are culturally patterned responses to the states determined by the neurology of the human brain.
David Manning
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195182392
- eISBN:
- 9780199851485
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195182392.003.0095
- Subject:
- Music, History, Western
The policy of performing the cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach with a chorus of 300 in a hall capable of holding over 2,000 may seem to some to be hazardous. Truly, the ideal way to give such music ...
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The policy of performing the cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach with a chorus of 300 in a hall capable of holding over 2,000 may seem to some to be hazardous. Truly, the ideal way to give such music is by a small choir in a small building. It seems then to be a question of 300 voices or no cantatas, for the third course, that of keeping the majority of the chorus silent in all except the noisier numbers, is unthinkable in the case of a society such as the Bach Choir, which lives through the enthusiasm of its members. It is hoped, therefore, that the beauty of these cantatas will make itself felt under any conditions and in any circumstances, provided that the performers bring their minds and their hearts to the work. Three complete cantatas are performed tonight: “Jesus took unto Him the Twelve,” “Stay with us,” and “The Sages of Sheba.”Less
The policy of performing the cantatas of Johann Sebastian Bach with a chorus of 300 in a hall capable of holding over 2,000 may seem to some to be hazardous. Truly, the ideal way to give such music is by a small choir in a small building. It seems then to be a question of 300 voices or no cantatas, for the third course, that of keeping the majority of the chorus silent in all except the noisier numbers, is unthinkable in the case of a society such as the Bach Choir, which lives through the enthusiasm of its members. It is hoped, therefore, that the beauty of these cantatas will make itself felt under any conditions and in any circumstances, provided that the performers bring their minds and their hearts to the work. Three complete cantatas are performed tonight: “Jesus took unto Him the Twelve,” “Stay with us,” and “The Sages of Sheba.”
Martin S. Jaffee
- Published in print:
- 2001
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780195140675
- eISBN:
- 9780199834334
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0195140672.003.0008
- Subject:
- Religion, Judaism
Explores the connection between the presence of written versions of rabbinic tradition and the emergence among Galilean sages of the third century c.e. of an explicit ideological claim that the ...
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Explores the connection between the presence of written versions of rabbinic tradition and the emergence among Galilean sages of the third century c.e. of an explicit ideological claim that the entire rabbinic tradition originated in Sinaitic revelation to Moses as unwritten Torah in the Mouth. Of great comparative interest is the Greco‐Roman tradition of rhetorical education, represented in the tradition of rhetorical textbooks (Progymnasmata), which prized memorization of written texts for exclusively oral performances that included rule‐governed transformations and revisions of texts in the performative setting. The chapter examines Amoraic traditions of Byzantine Galilee (the Palestinian Talmud, Midrash Tanhuma, Midrash Pesiqta Rabbati) for evidence that they were mastered from written versions and intentionally revised in performative settings. From this comparative perspective, the chapter concludes that the rabbinic conception of Torah in the Mouth is designed to legitimate the authority of the sage in the setting of discipleship training.Less
Explores the connection between the presence of written versions of rabbinic tradition and the emergence among Galilean sages of the third century c.e. of an explicit ideological claim that the entire rabbinic tradition originated in Sinaitic revelation to Moses as unwritten Torah in the Mouth. Of great comparative interest is the Greco‐Roman tradition of rhetorical education, represented in the tradition of rhetorical textbooks (Progymnasmata), which prized memorization of written texts for exclusively oral performances that included rule‐governed transformations and revisions of texts in the performative setting. The chapter examines Amoraic traditions of Byzantine Galilee (the Palestinian Talmud, Midrash Tanhuma, Midrash Pesiqta Rabbati) for evidence that they were mastered from written versions and intentionally revised in performative settings. From this comparative perspective, the chapter concludes that the rabbinic conception of Torah in the Mouth is designed to legitimate the authority of the sage in the setting of discipleship training.
Katja Maria Vogt
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- January 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195320091
- eISBN:
- 9780199869657
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195320091.003.0003
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Ancient Philosophy
The Stoics propose a cosmopolitan theory, but not in a modern sense of the term: their cosmic city is the cosmos. The Stoic theory is also not well described as impartialist or universalist; it calls ...
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The Stoics propose a cosmopolitan theory, but not in a modern sense of the term: their cosmic city is the cosmos. The Stoic theory is also not well described as impartialist or universalist; it calls for a certain kind of affiliation with all human beings. It is argued that the evidence does not speak in favor of seeing a marked development within early Stoicism: it does not seem that, while Zeno conceives of a city of sages, Chrysippus comes to compare the cosmos with a city, thus creating the notion of a cosmic city. Rather, it seems that early Stoic political philosophy is, throughout, concerned with a complex mix of two ideas—that the cosmos is the common home of all human beings, and thus like a city, and that, in order to truly live by the law of this cosmic city and thus be its citizen, one must be wise. These ideas are deeply connected with Stoic thought about affiliation (oikeiôsis): we should view everyone as belonging to us, thus understanding something which is the case (all human beings do belong to us as fellow‐inhabitants of the world); but only through gaining a full understanding of what this means (i.e., by becoming wise) can we achieve a full integration into the cosmos.Less
The Stoics propose a cosmopolitan theory, but not in a modern sense of the term: their cosmic city is the cosmos. The Stoic theory is also not well described as impartialist or universalist; it calls for a certain kind of affiliation with all human beings. It is argued that the evidence does not speak in favor of seeing a marked development within early Stoicism: it does not seem that, while Zeno conceives of a city of sages, Chrysippus comes to compare the cosmos with a city, thus creating the notion of a cosmic city. Rather, it seems that early Stoic political philosophy is, throughout, concerned with a complex mix of two ideas—that the cosmos is the common home of all human beings, and thus like a city, and that, in order to truly live by the law of this cosmic city and thus be its citizen, one must be wise. These ideas are deeply connected with Stoic thought about affiliation (oikeiôsis): we should view everyone as belonging to us, thus understanding something which is the case (all human beings do belong to us as fellow‐inhabitants of the world); but only through gaining a full understanding of what this means (i.e., by becoming wise) can we achieve a full integration into the cosmos.
Michael Fishbane
- Published in print:
- 1988
- Published Online:
- November 2003
- ISBN:
- 9780198266990
- eISBN:
- 9780191600593
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/0198266995.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Judaism
Scribal practice provides the most concrete evidence for the transmission of a body of tradition, and of its elucidation and clarification. The nature and institution of scribal practice in ancient ...
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Scribal practice provides the most concrete evidence for the transmission of a body of tradition, and of its elucidation and clarification. The nature and institution of scribal practice in ancient Israel is considered. Various features of the scribal guilds of ancient Israel are presented, and numerous examples provided from diverse genres. Evidence for textual transmission in the form of colophons and title‐lines; of references to gathering and selecting materials; and the clarification and correction of texts is provided. Comparisons with related materials from the ancient Near East and various versions of Scripture (e.g. the Septuagint and Samaritan Pentateuch) are made.Less
Scribal practice provides the most concrete evidence for the transmission of a body of tradition, and of its elucidation and clarification. The nature and institution of scribal practice in ancient Israel is considered. Various features of the scribal guilds of ancient Israel are presented, and numerous examples provided from diverse genres. Evidence for textual transmission in the form of colophons and title‐lines; of references to gathering and selecting materials; and the clarification and correction of texts is provided. Comparisons with related materials from the ancient Near East and various versions of Scripture (e.g. the Septuagint and Samaritan Pentateuch) are made.
Stephen G. Miller
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520258334
- eISBN:
- 9780520943599
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520258334.003.0013
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Ancient Greek, Roman, and Early Christian Philosophy
The Plato at Berkeley has been shown to be a genuine ancient portrait herm that was probably created in the second quarter of the second century after Christ, and may be based directly upon an ...
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The Plato at Berkeley has been shown to be a genuine ancient portrait herm that was probably created in the second quarter of the second century after Christ, and may be based directly upon an original of 370–365 B.C. The fine quality of the marble, the carving of the head and the inscription, and the verbal echoes of the written works of Plato suggest that the Berkeley Plato is a special creation that was associated with the portraits of the Seven Sages. The ribbon around the head and on the shoulders makes a direct connection with the world of athletics and the gymnasium-academy, but even more specifically with the Republic. The deformed left ear ties athletics and Plato's writings closely together, and the use of such allusions shows that the Berkeley Plato was the creation of someone who knew his Plato as a person and as a literary figure.Less
The Plato at Berkeley has been shown to be a genuine ancient portrait herm that was probably created in the second quarter of the second century after Christ, and may be based directly upon an original of 370–365 B.C. The fine quality of the marble, the carving of the head and the inscription, and the verbal echoes of the written works of Plato suggest that the Berkeley Plato is a special creation that was associated with the portraits of the Seven Sages. The ribbon around the head and on the shoulders makes a direct connection with the world of athletics and the gymnasium-academy, but even more specifically with the Republic. The deformed left ear ties athletics and Plato's writings closely together, and the use of such allusions shows that the Berkeley Plato was the creation of someone who knew his Plato as a person and as a literary figure.
RICHARD KALMIN
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780197264744
- eISBN:
- 9780191734663
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197264744.003.0011
- Subject:
- History, Middle East History
This chapter evaluates the use of the Babylonian Talmud for the study of the history of late-Roman Palestine using astrology as a case example. It explains that the Babylonian Talmud contains much ...
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This chapter evaluates the use of the Babylonian Talmud for the study of the history of late-Roman Palestine using astrology as a case example. It explains that the Babylonian Talmud contains much material which derives from Palestine and may sometimes preserve Palestinian rabbinic material in a form closer to the original than is found in Palestinian compilations. Palestinian sources often do not contain trustworthy evidence about Palestinian Sages and institutions.Less
This chapter evaluates the use of the Babylonian Talmud for the study of the history of late-Roman Palestine using astrology as a case example. It explains that the Babylonian Talmud contains much material which derives from Palestine and may sometimes preserve Palestinian rabbinic material in a form closer to the original than is found in Palestinian compilations. Palestinian sources often do not contain trustworthy evidence about Palestinian Sages and institutions.
Joseph Blenkinsopp
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198755036
- eISBN:
- 9780191695131
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198755036.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies, Judaism
This chapter begins with a discussion of the third section of the Hebrew Bible, which contains books that are listed simply as Writings. It then considers the meaning of wisdom. This is followed by ...
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This chapter begins with a discussion of the third section of the Hebrew Bible, which contains books that are listed simply as Writings. It then considers the meaning of wisdom. This is followed by descriptions of the professional sage and a discussion of education in Israel.Less
This chapter begins with a discussion of the third section of the Hebrew Bible, which contains books that are listed simply as Writings. It then considers the meaning of wisdom. This is followed by descriptions of the professional sage and a discussion of education in Israel.
Joseph Blenkinsopp
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198755036
- eISBN:
- 9780191695131
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198755036.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies, Judaism
This chapter begins with a discussion of the principal literary forms used by the sages – the proverb and the instruction – and it is these which make up the bulk of the material in the Book of ...
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This chapter begins with a discussion of the principal literary forms used by the sages – the proverb and the instruction – and it is these which make up the bulk of the material in the Book of Proverbs. It then considers other literary forms (apart from the proverb), their use as didactic tools, the connections that exist between them, and what uses the sages made of narrative for didactic purposes.Less
This chapter begins with a discussion of the principal literary forms used by the sages – the proverb and the instruction – and it is these which make up the bulk of the material in the Book of Proverbs. It then considers other literary forms (apart from the proverb), their use as didactic tools, the connections that exist between them, and what uses the sages made of narrative for didactic purposes.
Joseph Blenkinsopp
- Published in print:
- 1995
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198755036
- eISBN:
- 9780191695131
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198755036.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies, Judaism
This chapter begins with a discussion of how the sages of Israel, and of the ancient world in general, attempted to make sense of human existence by postulating an intrinsic connection between act ...
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This chapter begins with a discussion of how the sages of Israel, and of the ancient world in general, attempted to make sense of human existence by postulating an intrinsic connection between act and consequence, and thereby lay the basis for a morally significant life. It then examines the book of Job and analyses the biblical Ecclesiastes (Qoheleth).Less
This chapter begins with a discussion of how the sages of Israel, and of the ancient world in general, attempted to make sense of human existence by postulating an intrinsic connection between act and consequence, and thereby lay the basis for a morally significant life. It then examines the book of Job and analyses the biblical Ecclesiastes (Qoheleth).
Stephen C. Angle
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195385144
- eISBN:
- 9780199869756
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195385144.003.0002
- Subject:
- Philosophy, General
This chapter considers the concept and history of “sage” within Confucianism. It begins with an historical survey that shows how “sage (sheng)” evolves toward expressing the idea of human achievement ...
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This chapter considers the concept and history of “sage” within Confucianism. It begins with an historical survey that shows how “sage (sheng)” evolves toward expressing the idea of human achievement of moral perfection. The chapter pays particular attention to what Neo-Confucians meant by their repeated insistences that achieving sagehood is possible, as well as by their own personal commitments to advancing toward sagehood. Differences between “sage” and other personality ideals (like “superior person [junzi]”) are noted, and then the chapter turns to a brief comparison between these Confucian conceptions and comparable notions (like sophos and phronimos) from ancient Greek thought. The chapter then looks at discussion within contemporary philosophy of moral saints and moral heroes, as well as the idea of supererogation, which, we discover, is not applicable in a sage-centered conception of ethics. The chapter concludes by examining two criticisms of sagehood, namely, whether it is possible and whether it is desirable.Less
This chapter considers the concept and history of “sage” within Confucianism. It begins with an historical survey that shows how “sage (sheng)” evolves toward expressing the idea of human achievement of moral perfection. The chapter pays particular attention to what Neo-Confucians meant by their repeated insistences that achieving sagehood is possible, as well as by their own personal commitments to advancing toward sagehood. Differences between “sage” and other personality ideals (like “superior person [junzi]”) are noted, and then the chapter turns to a brief comparison between these Confucian conceptions and comparable notions (like sophos and phronimos) from ancient Greek thought. The chapter then looks at discussion within contemporary philosophy of moral saints and moral heroes, as well as the idea of supererogation, which, we discover, is not applicable in a sage-centered conception of ethics. The chapter concludes by examining two criticisms of sagehood, namely, whether it is possible and whether it is desirable.
David M. Carr
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199742608
- eISBN:
- 9780199918737
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199742608.003.0015
- Subject:
- Religion, Biblical Studies
Though most recent scholars have limited pre-exilic material in Proverbs to portions of Proverbs 10-23, this chapter argues that the bulk of the rest of Proverbs likely dates to the pre-exilic period ...
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Though most recent scholars have limited pre-exilic material in Proverbs to portions of Proverbs 10-23, this chapter argues that the bulk of the rest of Proverbs likely dates to the pre-exilic period as well. The materials of Proverbs show unambivalent links to non-Israelite literary traditions in a manner not typical of demonstrably later biblical texts. They lack linkage to broader themes important in later periods, such as prophecy and Torah. Moreover, where texts in Proverbs are specifically related to other biblical texts, the texts in Proverbs show signs of being the source of those texts rather than being dependent on them. These and other indicators are used to argue that the distinctive characteristics of Proverbs are best explained by its relatively early origins, not by the idea that its disparate parts were created in a “sapiential”-wisdom tradition stream (conserved by a separate class of “sages”).Less
Though most recent scholars have limited pre-exilic material in Proverbs to portions of Proverbs 10-23, this chapter argues that the bulk of the rest of Proverbs likely dates to the pre-exilic period as well. The materials of Proverbs show unambivalent links to non-Israelite literary traditions in a manner not typical of demonstrably later biblical texts. They lack linkage to broader themes important in later periods, such as prophecy and Torah. Moreover, where texts in Proverbs are specifically related to other biblical texts, the texts in Proverbs show signs of being the source of those texts rather than being dependent on them. These and other indicators are used to argue that the distinctive characteristics of Proverbs are best explained by its relatively early origins, not by the idea that its disparate parts were created in a “sapiential”-wisdom tradition stream (conserved by a separate class of “sages”).
Philip W. Rundel
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520249554
- eISBN:
- 9780520933361
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520249554.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Plant Sciences and Forestry
Sage scrub is a vegetation type distributed along the coast and semiarid interior of Southern California, as well as scattered areas along the central California coast. This chapter discusses the ...
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Sage scrub is a vegetation type distributed along the coast and semiarid interior of Southern California, as well as scattered areas along the central California coast. This chapter discusses the classification, composition and structure, and ecophysiology of sage scrub communities. Three associations are described within the broader sage scrub ecosystem: coastal sage scrub, interior sage scrub, and maritime succulent scrub. Disturbance regimes in sage scrub communities—such as fire, alien species, and air pollution—are also described. The chapter furthermore discusses efforts for restoration, and offers suggestions for future research.Less
Sage scrub is a vegetation type distributed along the coast and semiarid interior of Southern California, as well as scattered areas along the central California coast. This chapter discusses the classification, composition and structure, and ecophysiology of sage scrub communities. Three associations are described within the broader sage scrub ecosystem: coastal sage scrub, interior sage scrub, and maritime succulent scrub. Disturbance regimes in sage scrub communities—such as fire, alien species, and air pollution—are also described. The chapter furthermore discusses efforts for restoration, and offers suggestions for future research.
Nancy Sherman and Heath White
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- September 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199252732
- eISBN:
- 9780191719288
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199252732.003.0003
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Moral Philosophy, Metaphysics/Epistemology
This chapter defends an Aristotelian position which says that because emotions are not entirely voluntary and inextricably influence one's belief-forming processes, it does not follow that one is not ...
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This chapter defends an Aristotelian position which says that because emotions are not entirely voluntary and inextricably influence one's belief-forming processes, it does not follow that one is not responsible for the kind of beliefs one forms. Drawing from the work of Aristotle and the Stoics, it provides insight into the cognitive core of emotions, thereby offering ways in which emotions can be revised. Because emotions are central components to one's cognitive character, sages can develop them so as to enable accurate judgments of appearances. The chapter also contrasts the differences between Aristotle and the Stoics relative to the relations between virtue, luck, happiness, and knowledge. It argues that because cognitive virtues are sufficient for getting the truth (according to Stoics), but are denied by virtually all (modern epistemologists) because of luck's pervasive influence, the amount of harmony between virtue ethics and virtue epistemology will be limited.Less
This chapter defends an Aristotelian position which says that because emotions are not entirely voluntary and inextricably influence one's belief-forming processes, it does not follow that one is not responsible for the kind of beliefs one forms. Drawing from the work of Aristotle and the Stoics, it provides insight into the cognitive core of emotions, thereby offering ways in which emotions can be revised. Because emotions are central components to one's cognitive character, sages can develop them so as to enable accurate judgments of appearances. The chapter also contrasts the differences between Aristotle and the Stoics relative to the relations between virtue, luck, happiness, and knowledge. It argues that because cognitive virtues are sufficient for getting the truth (according to Stoics), but are denied by virtually all (modern epistemologists) because of luck's pervasive influence, the amount of harmony between virtue ethics and virtue epistemology will be limited.
Stephen D. Benin
- Published in print:
- 2003
- Published Online:
- October 2011
- ISBN:
- 9780195137279
- eISBN:
- 9780199849482
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195137279.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, World Religions
The rabbinic Sages, in their attempt to explain the eternal validity of a time-bound text, claimed that all their teachings stemmed, at least in principle, from Sinai and were accordingly part of ...
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The rabbinic Sages, in their attempt to explain the eternal validity of a time-bound text, claimed that all their teachings stemmed, at least in principle, from Sinai and were accordingly part of revelation itself. Both Jews and Christians developed interpretive traditions, and these very traditions presented an exegetical conundrum. After all, did Jewish scholars of later centuries have the same authority, indeed capacity, to interpret the sacred scripture as had the earlier rabbis, and did successive Christian exegetes share the auctoritas patrorum antiquorum? Might tradition stifle new approaches and avenues of biblical interpretation? Medieval Jewish and Christian exegetes confronted this dilemma and found similar means and stratagems to address and surmount the problem of tradition. This chapter examines the attempt of Jewish and Christian exegetes to explain in an innovative manner the eternal validity of a supposedly time-bound text while maintaining respect for received tradition, a position expressed in the medieval adage, “We are like dwarfs standing on the shoulders of giants”.Less
The rabbinic Sages, in their attempt to explain the eternal validity of a time-bound text, claimed that all their teachings stemmed, at least in principle, from Sinai and were accordingly part of revelation itself. Both Jews and Christians developed interpretive traditions, and these very traditions presented an exegetical conundrum. After all, did Jewish scholars of later centuries have the same authority, indeed capacity, to interpret the sacred scripture as had the earlier rabbis, and did successive Christian exegetes share the auctoritas patrorum antiquorum? Might tradition stifle new approaches and avenues of biblical interpretation? Medieval Jewish and Christian exegetes confronted this dilemma and found similar means and stratagems to address and surmount the problem of tradition. This chapter examines the attempt of Jewish and Christian exegetes to explain in an innovative manner the eternal validity of a supposedly time-bound text while maintaining respect for received tradition, a position expressed in the medieval adage, “We are like dwarfs standing on the shoulders of giants”.
