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Wed 20 Oct, 2004 09:33 am
The three most prominent Chinese philosophies were created in the wake of the "warring states" era: Confucianism, Taoism and Legalism. Out of these three, which one do you think most closely applies to modern American philosophy and beliefs?
First welcome KTG.
You have raised a good question.
But........seems i am unable to get over it
re
Hi, thanks for the welcome
Welcome! We're not generally in the habit of doing homework for people, but I'll post a link for you to read, and you can draw your own conclusions
:
http://www.wsu.edu:8080/~dee/CHPHIL/LEGALISM.HTM
Hey! I was just checking it out. With 25 000 members, we do get a lot of people asking to help with homework.
I'm not sure your understanding of Taoism is entirely correct. It's not so much a philosophy of "do what you want" as it is a philosophy of "accept what exists on it's own merits."
I will paraphrase a parable from Chuang Tzu, second only to Lao Tzu as a philosopher of Taoist thought. The story involves a Confucist and a Taoist both looking at a a gnarled tree. The Confucist comments that because the tree is so knotty, it has no practical purpose, as there is no way to chop it into lumber. He dismisses the tree as useless, as he believes that it's lack of practicality means it has no use to society.
The Taoist lies down underneath the tree and says "It's a hot day, and this tree provides good shade from the sun."
So, in essence, Taoism isn't really an immoral 'hippie' philosophy of 'do what makes you feel good.' It is simply a different perspective. I'm pretty sure that modern Taoists would not encourage their children to have sex at 13.
Given your response, I still maintain that you are essentially a legalist, and that is the philosophy that truly represents American culture today. Your own thesis actually proves this. In other words, you answered your own question. Nice work.
Anyway, I do hope this discussion continues.
in need of a reference
hello all I'm a new member and a college student doing a paper on if taoism would be practical or impractical in today's society and I was wondering if anyone knew of a website where i would be able to find some stats or quotes or historical events that i could use to help my thesis if so please reply, it would be much appreciated. thank you
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