| This thesis examines and explicates the place of family values in Chinese teachings through (1) an examination of filial piety as it is expressed in Taoist, Confucian, and Chinese Buddhist teachings that form the core of Chinese philosophy; (2) through original translation of selections from the Zhongguo Jia Xun (The Family Teachings of China ), which is a collection of sayings from family books being presented as a sourcebook in Chinese family values to be applied in modern society; and (3) through a study of a multigenerational family of Chinese descent who continue to use teachings contained within their own family books to provide spiritual, virtuous, and practical support and guidance in their everyday lives. It is concluded that, although the Zhongguo Jia Xun may serve as a beginning access point, it is in the frequent and regular discussion of these teachings among those who have a shared, contextualized understanding of them that the greatest benefit can be obtained. |
