Laozi’s Philosophy of Con-action
1 min readThe book Laozi was written around the sixth century BC. The author is generally believed to be Lao Dan, or Laozi-a recluse who lived during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). Few records have survived about Lao Dan, who was said to have once held a low civil position in the royal court, in charge of the archival records of the Zhou Dynasty(1046-256 BC). Yet, dueto his great learning, even Confucius was said to have traveled miles to consult him.
Laozi(Laozi), also known as Classic of the Way and Virtue(Dao de ing), consists of just over 5,000 Chinese characters. Its 81 chapters are divided into two parts, Dao(the Way) and De(Virtue). Short as it is, the book has played a tremendous role in the development of Chinese culture. It became the basis of Daoism, the school of philosophy parallel to Confucianism in ancient China.
The thought of Laozi formed the foundation of Daoism, the most influential indigenous school of religion in China. It has also exerted a direct impact on the characteristics, trends of thought and aesthetic sensibilities of the Chinese nation. Today Laozi still plays a role in the development of Chinese thinking.
Laozi was first introduced into Europe possibly as early as the 15th century and has been one of the most translated philosophical works of ancient China. Many of Laozi’s enlightening views are based on his philosophy of naturalness and non-action.
