Daoism in History and Modern Time - Essay Example

China as a bright example of the Oriental world represents numerous typical and specific principles of its philosophy. In this regard, Daoism is an essential doctrine of the Chinese lifestyle, since it determines numerous aspects of its order.

According to the principle of Yin and Yang, all things are characterized by the presence of both male and female parts, being a manifestation of dark and light. Consequently, the basic concept of Daoism is a balanced approach to all phenomena of nature and their adjustment in the context of an equilibrium.  

Another important composite part of Daoism philosophy can be found in the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching), which is attributed to Laozi, the founder of Daoism. As a matter of fact, it appears that the author is unknown, as Laozi is not his true name and only a nickname in the meaning of a wise elder. The title of the scripture in its turn may be translated as the book of the path and virtue. According to the legend, in the decline of years, Laozi has decided to leave China and go to the West. Passing through a frontier post, Laozi has been asked by its chief to leave a book in memory of him, which would reflect the wise old man’s thoughts about the path of peace and humanity’s way in it (Orbinski-Vonk, 2012). This is the very way of the Daodejing appearance. Its importance is great for Chinese history and culture since it is a document of Ancient China’s thoughts. Moreover, it is considered to be one of the classical works of Daoism. The views set forth in it have made a massive impact on the subsequent development of China’s philosophy.

Daoism being a part of traditional cultural heritage serves as a complex component of the spiritual culture of modern China. Reflecting the ethnic and cultural peculiarities, it becomes a powerful direct and indirect impact factor. Specifically, Daoist ideas find their expression through art acting as means of expression of thoughts and feelings of people seeking penetration into riddles of the universe. For example, “Taoist architecture includes temples, palaces, nunneries, altars and huts where religious activities are performed and the power that envelopes and flows through all things, living and non-living, is worshipped” (TravelChinaGuide.com), while literature represents Daoist ideas as well: Ge Hong’s “The Baopuzi” (Smiley).
There are particular challenges for Daoism in the modern world. The thing is that Daoism loses its character as a national religion. The number of its followers shortens every year, while many secret rituals gain transparency. Therefore, the philosophy’s sacral nature disappears turning it into something of almost usual origin.

Anyway, many notions and concepts of Daoism may be beneficial for people. In particular, the Daoist principle of Wu Wei referring to abstinence from the action can be useful for everyone in our present life. In fact, in the situation when men are faced with a particular challenge, they sometimes act in the heart of the moment when it is important to think over the whole context weighing all options.   Surely, Wu Wei translated as non-interference, however, does not imply absolute passivity. On the contrary, this action is to be made according to two principles, namely: no effort should be spent in vain; nothing should be done contrary to the laws of nature.

To sum it up, Daoism is an important part of Chinese history and culture reflecting its life philosophy and determining the way of people’s being.