Daoism

Term Paper # 115716

Asian Studies > East Asian Cultures
Religion and Theology > Eastern

Daoism

An overview of the principles and beliefs of Daoism.

2,647 words () | 7 sources | MLA | 2009 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper outlines the history and origins of Daoism and its main priciples of Yin, Yang, and wu. The paper explains the many beliefs and concepts associated with Daoism as well as its disciplines, scriptures and rituals. The paper also talks about the influence of Daoism on medicine, the design of classical Chinese gardens, culture and art.

From the Paper:

"Daoism is one of China's two philosophical schools (Confucianism is the other), but Daoism transcends philosophy and also incorporates religion. Daoists believe that in the beginning was the Dao, empty and still. Gradually, primal energy was spontaneously generated out of the Dao, which swirled in cosmic chaos. Eventually, the Dao generated yin and yang (see below), which directed the primal energy into patterns of movement. For Daoists, matter and energy are interchangeable. (Lewis 13) Within this vision of universal order, Daoists advocate living a simple, honest life and not interfering with the course of natural events. Daoists seek immortality (here on earth), an understanding of reality, to behave morally and regulate both their thoughts and their diet (they don't eat grains). Daoists seek effortless action, artlessness, wisdom and Dao (the Way). Daoists regulate their internal energy with breathing, dance and sexual practices."

Sample of Sources Used:

The Art Institute of Chicago. Taoism and the Arts of China. URL November 21st, 2007.
Brian, Paul. Lao Tzu: Tao te Ching. URL November 21st, 2007.
Evans, Leslie. 15th Sammy Yukuan Lee Lecture Honors Sammy Lee's 100th Birthday URL November 21st, 2007.
Little, Stephen with Eichman, Shawn. Chicago/Berkeley: The Art Institute of Chicago/University of California Press, 2000.
Littlejohn, Ronnie. Daoist Philosophy. URL November 21st, 2007.