Background
The
Chinese
philosophy of Taoism (or Daoism) developed in the latter part of the
Chou Dynasty, during a period of turmoil in which it was not clear that
Chinese civilization would survive. It represents a naturalistic ideal of
how one should live their life.The
Basics
Founder-The Chinese philosopher
Lao Tze.
Geographic Origin-Developed in China around 500 BCE.
Currently Practiced-Elements of this philosophy are still practiced
in Southeast Asia.
Significant Writings-Tao-te-Ching
Teachings and
Beliefs
The Chinese term Tao can be translated into English,
meaning "the way." It
is a
philosophy which teaches that  nature
has a "way" in which it moves, and that people should
passively accept the "way" of nature, rather than
resist it. One concept related to this is that of wu-wei,
which means "not doing." This
means that people should not act unnaturally by doing things,
but rather should openly accept the natural way. An emphasis
is placed on the link between people and nature.
Taoism teaches that this link lessened the need for
rules and order, and leads one to a better understanding of
the world.
The
Yin and Yang symbol (pictured above) has also been used to illustrate
the natural harmony that exists in the world. Everything must have an
opposing force that allows the harmonious universe to exist. For example:
|
Yin |
Yang |
| Light |
Dark |
| Male |
Female |
| Heavenly |
Earthly |
| Active |
Passive |
Web
Resources
The
Geography of Taoism
(Morehead University)
Taoism (Ontario Consultants)
|
