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Chinese Scholars’ Temperaments and Interests
Shiren, or scholars, is a generic term referring to the men of letters in ancient China. Shiren acquired knowledge and spread culture; politically they revered their rulers, and intellectually they followed the Dao (the proper Way). They were participants in state government and possessed great tactical skill when dealing with the Way and the ruler. Shiren were also the creators and inheritors of traditional Chinese culture. They were accorded a special status and formed an elite social group in ancient China; their like was found nowhere else in the world.