I came across the Crispin’s philosophy book last year when showing my dad all the cool things you could find on Libby, the Overdrive Library app.
It’s a quick listen as a 3 hour survey of Chinese philosophy from Confucius through the rise of the Neo-Confucianism, with sections on Daoism, Mohists, and Chan Buddhism.
As for substance, unfortunately my knowledge of Chinese philosophy is at the perfectly wrong point to judge the value of this book. I’ve read just enough that none of the info is new to me so I can’t attest if it would be difficult for a true beginner. But I’m not an expert to have an opinion on its accuracy, aside from attesting that the information was in line with I’ve read elsewhere.
The most notable aspect in the presentation was their use of voice actors with Asian accents when reading extended quotes. It was a little surprising at first but you get used to it quickly. It adds a variety to the proceedings.
䷒䷾
In my recent omnivorous push to gobble up reader digest summaries of the ancient philosophers, I came across Ching’s survey of Confucianism and Taoism.
Because the subject was about the broad religious traditions instead of the philosophers themselves, this book includes many comments from western observers over the centuries. It paints a richer picture of the thought and practice beyond the original conceptual ideals. (And yes, I enjoyed the mix of European and Asian accents in this presentation.)
It’s a great pairing with Crispin’s philosophy survey. I’m more drawn to the philosophical side of these traditions, but I enjoyed seeing how they have developed in history and society.
If you’re going to listen to one, I’d recommend that you listen to both.