- Published: 2 January 2014
- ISBN: 9780141392103
- Imprint: Penguin Classics
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 512
- RRP: $27.99
The Book of Master Mo

















A key work of ancient Chinese philosophy is brought back to life in Ian Johnston's compelling, definitive translation
Very little is known about Master Mo, or the school he founded. However, the book containing his philosphical ideas has survived centuries of neglect and is today recognised as a fundamental work of ancient Chinese philosophy. The book contains sections explaining the ten key doctrines of Mohism; lively dialogues between Master Mo and his followers; discussion of ancient warfare; and an extraordinary series of chapters that include the first examples of logic, dialectics and epistemology in Chinese philosophy. The ideas discussed in The Book of Master Mo - ethics, anti-imperalism, and a political hierarchy based on merit - remain as relevant as ever, and the work is vital to understanding ancient Chinese philosophy.
- Published: 2 January 2014
- ISBN: 9780141392103
- Imprint: Penguin Classics
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 512
- RRP: $27.99
Other books in the series
About the author
Mo Zi (470–390 BC) was one of the most influential of classical Chinese philosophers.
Praise for The Book of Master Mo
A landmark endeavour
Asia Times
A magnificent and valuable achievement
Journal of Chinese Studies
Eminently readable and at the same time remarkably accurate...Johnston's work will be the standard for a long time
China Review International
Compelling and engaging reading...while at the same time preserving the diction and rhetorical style of the original Chinese
New Zealand Journal of Asian Studies