The Laws of Change

I Ching and the Philosophy of Life

Jack Balkin (View Bio)
Hardcover: Schocken, 2002.

"Balkin, a Yale law professor, offers an engaging translation and interpretation of this Chinese classic.... In addition to the text of the I Ching, Balkin provides a fascinating history of the work along with a lucid introduction to Chinese philosophy. But he is most interested in the I Ching as a system of practical wisdom applicable to everyday problems. By 'enticing us to make sense of' its 'vague and cryptic' language, he argues, it 'induces us to abandon logical and linear thinking' and stimulates intuition and inspiration. Balkin includes detailed commentaries that help make sense of the book's pronouncements, which are sometimes self-evident but more often based on oblique metaphors.... The I Ching's evocative imagery makes it a great work of literature, now more accessible than ever thanks to Balkin." — Publishers Weekly