Principles of Subjective Anthropology: Concepts and the Knowledge System

This book puts forward the concept of “subjective anthropology” and outlines a theoretical system that will allow subjective anthropology to qualify as a new academic discipline in its own right. In an effort to respond to the field’s proper role as the science of humanity, subjective analysis has been introduced into the study of anthropology. The book fills two distinct gaps in our knowledge and understanding of modern man, offering detailed descriptions of personality and of groups, while also advancing the theory of “structure and choice.” The book formulates seven basic principles of subjective anthropology and divides anthropology into three major branches: subjective anthropology, cultural anthropology, and biological (or physical) anthropology, which can be further divided into sub-branches. The book pursues three key goals: advancing and developing the theoretical system of subjective anthropology, reconstructing the discipline of anthropology, and establishing a Chinese anthropology with Chinese characteristics, Chinese visions, and Chinese styles.

Chen Binggong is Kuang Yaming Distinguished Professor at Jilin University, China, Director of the Research Center of National Core Values, Chief Specialist in the Central Project of Marxist Research and Development, and one of the most distinguished social scientists in China today. His research areas include philosophy, philosophical anthropology, subjective anthropology, and education. He has published more than 20 monographs and over 150 articles. He was awarded the first prize in the humanities and social sciences category by the Ministry of Education, China. He has advanced the theory of “structure and choice.”