Between Disaster, Punishment, and Blame

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Focusing on the historical development of guilt in early Chinese thought, this study explores synonyms related to wrongdoing during the pre-Qin period. It highlights the significant role of shame within the Confucian value system while revealing the nuanced understanding of guilt that has been overlooked in scholarly discussions. By examining the synchronic and diachronic aspects of these terms within their sociopolitical context, the research challenges the prevailing view of early China as solely a "shame culture," showcasing the complexity of its moral discourse.