Overview

Gui Gu Zi, The Philosopher of the Ghost Vale, is a classic Chinese manual dating back over two millennia, which unveils the ancient art of high-stakes lobbying. A parallel to Sun Tzu's Art of War, this powerful work is the earliest known guide to psycholinguistics and the science of persuasion. Rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy and medicine, it offers a systematic approach to understanding and manipulating human behavior. Originally written for lobbyists seeking to influence despotic rulers, Gui Gu Zi reveals methods of psychological manipulation so potent that Chinese emperors kept it secret for generations. It teaches how to decode a person's true motivations, vulnerabilities, and fears, advocating deep psychological profiling. The text also introduces strategies of persuasion and dissuasion, showing how to shape expectations by presenting both positive and negative ideas. Drawing from ancient concepts of self-mastery, Gui Gu Zi emphasizes the importance of maintaining inner calm and composure, guiding the reader to achieve optimal mental performance under pressure. Whether for diplomacy, negotiation, or leadership, the timeless wisdom in this book is as relevant today as it was in ancient China-making it an invaluable resource for mastering the dynamics of power and influence in the modern world.

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9789888904792

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Reviews

""Steven Selby has done the English-speaking world a major service with this new translation of the Gui Gu Zi. Not only does he render the original text into lucid and elegant English, he provides relatable commentary that opens up some of the mysteries of the references in the original, while also showing how very pertinent is the advice to a modern audience."" - Richard Pratt, author of Plum Blossoms in Primary

Author Information

Stephen Selby graduated with a Master's Degree in Chinese language and literature from Edinburgh University in 1974. After over 30 years working in the Government of Hong Kong, he now spends most of his time researching and writing on Chinese history and culture, playing music and walking his dogs. His research and publications cover Chinese Qing Dynasty family land law, the history of Chinese archery, Sun Tzu's 'Art of War', the Chinese imperial examination system and knowledge management. He holds research and teaching positions at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Ji Nan University in Guangzhou and the East China Normal University in Shanghai.

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