Preface
Introduction
The Social Uses of Violence
Sanctioned Violence and the Warring States Transition
1. The Warrior Aristocracy
Warfare and Sacrifice
The Segmentary Aristocracy
Warfare and Honor
Blood Covenants
Conclusion
2. The Warring State
Warfare and the Warring State
Oaths and Sacrifice
Vengeance and Collective Punishments
Conclusion
3. The Art of Command
The Commander and Texts
The Commander and the Army
The Commander and Battle
The Commander and the Ruler
Conclusion
4. Cosmic Violence
The Calendar of Violence
Cosmic Kickball
Imperial Hunts and Animal Combats
Feats of Strength and sorcery
Conclusion
5. The Social History of Violence
The Myths of the Sage-Kings
The Yellow Emperor and his Adversaries
The Myths and the New Year Festivals
The Violence of Beasts and Men
Myths of Sacrifice and Heaven's Mandate
Conclusion
6. The Natural Philosophy of Violence
Qi in Man and Nature
Qi and Violence
The Sage Commander
The Socialization of Qi
Conclusion
Conclusion
Notes
Works Cited
Index