Daoism Flashcards
(22 cards)
What is the Daodejing and who is it attributed to?
A foundational Daoist text attributed to Laozi, likely compiled by multiple authors before the 3rd century BC.
What does ‘Dao’ (道) mean in Daoism?
The Way; the origin of all things, ineffable, and beyond conceptual grasp.
What are the four traits of the Dao?
- Origin of all things, 2. Transcendent yet active, 3. Ineffable, 4. Follows a pattern of returning.
What does ‘wuwei’ (無為) literally translate to, and what does it mean in context?
Literally ‘non-action’; means effortless, spontaneous action in harmony with the Dao.
How does wuwei contrast with Confucianism?
Confucianism values deliberate action to instill virtue; wuwei rejects forced action.
What does the Daodejing say about virtue (De 德)?
True virtue arises from not striving for virtue.
How does Daoism view social norms and civilization?
It sees them as corrupting; promotes returning to a pre-civilized, natural state.
What is ‘ziran’ (自然)?
Spontaneity or naturalness; acting in accordance with one’s true nature without external influence.
How does the Daodejing critique knowledge?
Rejects moral, sensory, and dualistic knowledge; sees naming and distinctions as limiting.
What does ‘uncarved wood’ symbolize in the Daodejing?
Simplicity, potential, and naturalness before social shaping or categorization.
What is the political implication of the Daodejing’s teaching?
Rulers should act without force, weaken desires, and maintain simplicity to govern effectively.
Who was Zhuangzi and what is unique about his style?
A Daoist philosopher known for storytelling, humour, and sceptical, perspectival writing.
What are the three parts of the Zhuangzi text?
- Inner chapters, 2. Outer chapters, 3. Miscellaneous chapters.
What type of scepticism does Zhuangzi endorse?
Soft scepticism—doubts knowledge of facts but not practical skill.
What is the fish story in Zhuangzi meant to show?
The limitations of knowing others’ experiences and the futility of argumentation.
What is ‘perspectivism’ according to Zhuangzi?
The idea that all knowledge is shaped and limited by one’s perspective.
What does Zhuangzi say about language and naming?
Language is unstable; meaning is not fixed and can mislead.
What is Zhuangzi’s idea of ‘forgetfulness’?
A way to abandon ego, norms, and knowledge to align effortlessly with the Dao.
How does Zhuangzi propose living in society?
Remain detached; fulfill roles if needed, but don’t internalize them.
What is ‘xiaoyao you’ (逍遙遊)?
Free and easy wandering—living freely without fixed goals or attachments.
How does Zhuangzi critique Confucian values?
Through satire and paradox, suggesting they create unnecessary constraints.
According to Lisa Raphals, what are the three roles of scepticism in Zhuangzi?
- As a method, 2. As a recommendation, 3. As a soft philosophical thesis.
