This study offers a methodological approach for comparative philosophy on the level of the philosophical system, examines Confucian philosophy as a philosophical system, with emphasis on its epistemological dimensions, and uses the thought of a particular thinker as an example of how the Confucian tradition was appropriated by individual thinkers. Review: "Presenting new material from a stimulating perspective, Birdwhistell's work is both meticulous and fascinating. She comes to her material with a keen philosophic eye. Not only does she provide us with excellent sinological scholarship, but she puts the scholarship in the context of the development of Chinese philosophy, which she links to broader ecumenical and global philosophic issues. This work is therefore important to any philosopher interested in the development of world philosophy." -John Berthong, Boston University.