Taoism Discussion Questions

[Mr. J.]

1. Why doesn't Lao-tzu want to give the Tao a name? What are some
illustrations of the Tao?
2. Briefly describe in your own words the concept of wu wei.
3. If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, would a Taoist put it back
or
ignore it? Explain your answer.
4. How would a Taoist view hunting regulations in today's society?
5. How do Confucianism and Taoism differ? Provide some advantages
and disadvantages of each outlook.
6. How might Taoism have affected ordinary people in China? Can it
be
seen as an anti-establishment philosophy?

Due Friday

[Christine]

1.
Taoism is a belief and a Chinese philosophy that expresses the Way of
the whole universe. It is based upon the individual’s relationship
with the universe, rather than with society. Lao-tzu, the original
founder of Taoism, did not give Tao a name, because Tao is the
“eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force” that exists above all
nature to unify it. Tao is present in everything- therefore it doesn’t
have a definite form, nor does it have a name. People in the pursuit
of Tao and to be in harmony with the universe, reject the structure
and rules of society in order to enter into their own free, natural,
and spontaneous mind.

2,
Wu wei is a principle of being in harmony with nature- conforming to
the surroundings and eliminating the struggle against forces of the
universe. Water is often used to illustrate this concept: water does
not have any form but takes the shape of its surroundings and while it
is weak, it is strong as well. One should try and take this form of
water, because while one is not doing anything, one is still strong.
Wu wei is essentially being able to adapt and be flexible to the
surrounding changes, while staying uninfluenced by the society- action
in inaction.

3.
If a bird’s nest fell out of a tree, I believe that a Taoist would not
put it back. From what I can gather about Taoism, a person should
follow the concept of action in inaction. One should react to the
things that happen around them by simply conforming and being
flexible. By not putting a nest that fell out back into a tree, one is
abiding by the idea that there is an unchanging force that exists in
everything. A Taoist believes that he/she is not the doer of anything,
so there is no reason to disrupt the natural result for what is
supposed to happen.

4.
A Taoist would view the hunting regulations in today’s society as
harmful to their hope of becoming harmonious with the universe. In
hunting, one is deliberately killing an animal of nature, therefore
disrupting the man’s individual relationship with nature. Undoubtedly,
any thing that would interrupt one’s synchronization with the world
and the Way would be seen as harmful.

5.
Confucianism and Taoism differ because Confucianism focuses on the
harmony of society while Taoism focuses on the harmony of one with
nature. Confucianism was designed for conformity and the teachings
emphasized the moral and traditional values that should exist in order
to ensure a peaceful society. Taoism is almost the opposite of this.
Taoism disregards the hope for societal order, but rather on the
individual’s liberation of their imagination and being impulsive. They
are similar however in the manner that they both do not have a
specific religious being or entity that they look to for guidance. For
example, there is no “pope” in both religions. Much of both
Confucianism and Taoism are based upon what one can do individually.
For example, Confucianism constitutes different obligations one must
follow such as the four key virtues of hsiao, jen, shu, and li. In
Taoism as well an individual must follow principles such as wu wei
whwere one must conform with their surroundings in order to reach
harmony with the universe.

6.
Taoism could have affected the ordinary people in China by bringing
them to resist the government or any societal structure. An ordinary
person in China would try and act in accordance with the Taoist
beliefs of action in inaction, and so instead of acting to ensure the
stability of a society, they would simply allow things to happen. I
believe that it can be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy. There
are obvious reasons why it can be as this. Taoism emphasizes one’s
relationship with the universe and nature rather than their
relationship with the social order and developing their moral in order
to maintain the peaceful society. A Taoist wants to enter their own
“worlds of imagination, exploration, and the omnipresent universe” and
in doing so, one rejects the authority of social order. Taosim can be
seen as an anti-establishment philosophy, because it simply expresses
ideas that most obviously go against establishments.

[Hannah]

1) The Tao was not given a name because it represents the universe, or
the eternal, infinite force that makes all of nature one. Since it
represents something infinite and is present in everything, it cannot
be given a finite name. Taoists who wanted to be unified with the Tao
wanted to be in harmony with the entire universe, and would reject the
strict social order in order to achieve higher enlightenment in the
world of imagination, exploration, and the physical and mental aspects
of the universe. Taoists believed that all actions and thoughts should
be spontaneous instead of premeditated thoughts and actions.

2) Wu Wei is letting the forces of the universe guide one instead of
trying to carve one's own path, basically "going with the flow". This
particularly refers to the forces of nature, and how one's actions
should be harmonious with the forces of nature.

3) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would most likely
leave it where it is because that was what had happened due to
nature's forces, and putting it back would go against nature's way.

4) A Taoist would probably not view today's hunting regulations
favorably for two reasons. First of all, hunting for the sake of
hunting and not for the sake of feeding oneself or one's family is
unnatural, and is not harmonious with nature's way. Second of all, if
people were hunting in order to feed their family, regulating their
hunting would go against nature's way since capturing food is natural,
which would also not be harmonious with nature.

5) Taoism is all about being harmonious with nature and acting
spontaneously, whereas Confucianism is quite the opposite.
Confucianism is all about conforming to society and dealt with social
matters such as government and morals, whereas Taoism focused more on
the individual and nonconformity. Confucianism is good for developing
relationships among people, but did not address the individual's
relationship with themself or nature. Taoism addresses the
individual;s relationship with nature and themself, but does not
address relationships among people.

6) Taoism might have affected the people of China by teaching them to
focus more on themselves and what they personally believe, rather than
conforming to what others around them believe. It can be seen by an
anti-establishment philosophy because it teaches people to resist the
government's rules and ignore the rules of society.

[Alison Mosier-Mills]

1. Lao-tzu taught people that because the Tao was present in
everything in the world, it could not be “named or defined”. Instead
of seeking to understand the Tao as a physical object or being, they
sought to be in harmony with the entire universe. In order to achieve
this, they rejected the social order and focused more on imagination,
exploration and poetry. Illustrations of the Tao are mainly ideas, and
they depict an “eternal, everlasting and unchanging life force”.

2. “Wu wei” an idea that says that one should act in “harmony with
nature”. Basically, one should not interfere with the overriding force
of the universe; in order to live a good life, one must act WITH
nature, not against it. Although the packet cited water as an example
of wu wei, I believe that many things in nature can also be used to
help define it. For example, the growth of a plant is dependent on the
changing course of nature. The plant does not resist the elements;
instead, it must adapt in harmony with nature in order to survive.

3. I don’t think that a Taoist would pick up a bird’s nest that had
fallen from a tree. Taoists should not “attempt to struggle against
the forces of the universe, but rather to follow them”. If a Taoist is
truly following the concept of wu wei, which dictates that they must
remain in harmony with nature, then by picking up the nest, they are
actually interfering with the natural order.

4. I believe that Taoists would be pleased with the hunting
regulations in today’s society. According to Taoism, hunting is
interfering with the natural world because a man is deciding the fate
of an animal, as opposed to the Tao, or universal force. Hunting
regulations attempt to put a stop to this by preventing man from
interrupting the order of nature, and therefore a Tao would be happy
to see these laws put into place.

5. Confucianism and Taoism essentially differ in that while
Confucianism is focused primarily on the development of a successful
and moral society and emphasizes conformity, Taoism centers more on
the relationships amongst individuals and the universe, and stresses
the importance of the imagination. In my opinion, the advantages of
one religion may also be the disadvantages of the other. For example,
Confucianism centers along unity and conformity. For this reason, the
society might be successful, but the individuals may not have strong
“inner lives”, and may not have a good concept of the world outside
their immediate society. Conversely, in Taoism, the individual’s
relation with nature and the universe is of the utmost importance.
While this means that followers of Taoism could have deep faith and a
good sense of themselves in nature, there is a lack of unity between
the individuals, and therefore the society might not be as strong.

6. I agree that Taoism could be seen as anti-establishment because it
focuses on the individual in nature rather than in a society. This
could have posed problems for the Chinese government because Taoism’s
eccentricity would have liberated people from the material world,
strengthened their imaginations, and actually emphasized
nonconformity. If ordinary people followed Taoism, they might fail to
listen to the government because they are more focused on their own
spirituality instead of on following the laws of the nation and
creating a stable and successful society. Ordinary citizens who did
NOT follow Taoism might find a lack of unity and note that there was a
resistance to the social structure that they had tried to build.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Dan Maxwell]

1. Lao-tzu doesn't want to give Tao a name because it is present in
everything and is an "eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force" that
pervades and unifies all nature. It is not an individual concept; it
is a universal concept. The individual achieving unity with To is
considered to be at one with eternity. His view of Taoism is similar
to Muslims belief about their God.

2. The concept of wu wei, in my own words, means to be one with
nature. A human being should not struggle against Nature, but should
embrace it flow with it. The human is the follower; nature is the
leader. Whatever nature throws at the human, the human takes. The
example given is water because it flows with nature, and in the end
can conquer anything. Humans who want to achieve the principles of wu
wei strive to be, in the end, more powerful than any other thing, and
that can be achieved through wu wei.

3. If a birds nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would ignore it. The
basic principles of wu wei are to act in harmony with nature. A person
should not attempt to "struggle against the forces of nature". A true
Taoist would not put back a nest falling out of a tree because that
would be struggling against the forces of nature.

4. A Taoist would criticize hunting regulations in our society. As
stated above, Taoists believe in acting in harmony with nature and to
struggling against its forces. Hunting is the exact thing that a
Taoist doesn't believe in because hunting destroys harmony with
nature.

5. Confucianism differs from Taoism because of its basic principles.
Confucianism deals with the development of a moral and harmonious
political society, while Taoism deals with individual and non-societal
matters. Taoism is a wider discipline; it deals with the the
relationship between people and the vast universe, while Confucianism
deals with people and their place in society and government. It seems
like Confucianism is more of a modernistic approach, and Taoism is a
more older approach because it deals with nature, which the focus has
been torn away from in the current time. The focus now is on
technology. Taoism complements Confucianism.

6. Taoism can be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
encourages the "liberation of the imagination and nonconformity". It
even goes so far as to encourage eccentricity. Taoism emphasizes the
rights of the individual, his right to investigate a whole universe,
and his freedom to try to harness it. Thus, Taoism can be seen as a
rebellious disciple. Taoism might have affected ordinary people in
China to rebel against the normal system. These peoples beliefs might
be why the current government of China is cracking down on human
rights

.
On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Emily Lu]

1. Tao, meaning the way, is the eternal, underlying force that unites
all of nature. Unlike confucianism which is based on conforming to
society, taoism encouraged the individual to reject the common outlook
and adopt an original perspective. Tao is omnipresent, but has no
defined form. Lao-tzu did not want to give the Tao a name because he
believed that a name could not express the concept of Tao.
Illustrations of Tao include being in harmony with the universe and
nature, as well as exploring the possibilities beyond the common
outlook.

2. Wu wei is the principle of acting in harmony with nature. It
advocates going along with the natural course of the world, without
struggling. An example of a something that follows the principle of wu
wei is rock. Rock is a sturdy substance that can provide a strong
foundation, but given time, it can be broken down into pebbles or
debris by weak forces such as water or even air.

3. A taoist would leave the nest where it was because he/she believes
in wu wei, which would mean that the forces of nature had meant the
nest to fall. If he/she did put the nest back into the tree, that
would be struggling against the forces of the unvierse and spoiling
nature with the touch of society.

4. A taoist might not view the hunting regulations favorably. Although
he believes that nature should not be disturbed by society, hunting is
also a natural way of the universe. Man has hunted since the time of
the caveman and often put the animals to good use: consuming the meat,
wearing the hide, and turning the bones into useful inventions. True,
in today's world hunting is not done for survival, but often as a
sport, but that is the way the universe has evolved. Putting up
regulations would stop the natural course of the universe.

5. Confucianism looked to make society stable and unified by forcusing
on the individual's role with their family and their country. In order
to do this,Confucianism encouraged conforming. This had its advantages
because it gave everyone a place in society, and allowed people to
feel that they had a grasp on their duty in life. They had defined
virtues that they had to recognize, such as responsibility, humanity,
and universal benevlolence. However, Confucianism had a set vision of
life, such as a hierarchy. It was difficult to extend one's reach out
of this hierarchy, which assigned people a specific position and duty
in all of their relationships, such as father to son, ruler to
subject. While Confucianism emphasized the individual's relations with
society, Taoism dealt with the "relationship between people and the
vast and resplendent universe". Taoism encouraged people to think
outside of the box and to see things with a different outlook. This
resulted in new discoveries, such as scientific knowledge, the
concepts of observation, classification and experimentation, and
acupuncture, as well as many other inventions. However, a possible
disadvantage would be the extreme curiosity that is apart of Taoism.
Taoists are interested in everything, for they believe that
understanding all the parts of the universe would let them unite with
Tao. If they devote their time to looking at everything with an
original point of view, though they might begin to contemplate things
that cannot or should not be contemplated in so many ways, because the
Taoist may miss the basic meaning, and at the same time, distort it.

6. I believe that Taoism can be seen as an anti-establishment
philosophy, because unlike Confucianism, it tells people to focus on
their relationship with the universe. It rejects conformity, which I
believe is necessary to create an establishment. Without conforming,
there is no strict hierarchy, and the result is that people can let
their minds wander and explore in a way that prevents organization,
which prevents the establishment.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Joelle Khouri]

1. Lao-tzu believed that the Tao cannot be named because it is an
eternal and everlasting force, much too large and complicated for man
to define. The Tao is present in everything; it is impossible to
pinpoint specifically. To identify with the Tao, one must be in
harmony with nature and even the entire universe. One should be
natural and spontaneous, free to imagine and explore. In this way, the
Tao can be found.

2. Wu wei is the concept of acting in harmony with nature. This means
that one should follow the forces of nature rather than struggle
against them. The example the packet uses, which I think helps in
understanding the concept, is water. Water will take the form of
whatever surrounds it. A single drop is weak, yet water can carve away
stone. Applying this to humans, wu wei means that man should be
flexible, should conform to nature, and should break free from the
bonds of society and order.

3. I believe that a Taoist would observe the bird’s nest, but
ultimately let it be, because they believe in harmony with nature and
would not want to change what happens naturally (i.e. the bird’s nest
falling).

4. I think that Taoists would mostly agree with hunting regulations.
Since they believe in living in harmony with nature, they would not
agree with hunting for sport and would be glad for regulations that
maintain the natural state of the world.

5. Confucianism is concerned with people and their place in society
and government while Taoism is more about people and the universe.
Confucianism focuses on conformity and Taoism embraces for imagination
and individuality. Confucianism is good for the whole, for the
government and overall society but no for the self. Taoism, on the
other hand, is pretty much the opposite. These philosophies seem to be
at different extremes, but, as our packet says they are not mutually
exclusive.

6. Taoism might have affected ordinary people in China by giving them
another view besides that of the government. Taoism can definitely be
seen as an anti-establishment philosophy. Our packet explains that
Taoists rejected the need for social order. Therefore, Taoism is
against structured things, such as the government or establishment.
Taoism embraced individuality and nonconformity and rejected the need
for social order. From these traits, it is easy to see how Taoism in
China could have pushed ordinary people away from the government.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Allie Ziegler]

1. Taoism is based upon the relationships between people and the
universe. Taoism focuses on the “Way” of the universe and the Tao. Lao-
tzu taught that the Tao is ever-present and therefore could not be
named or defined. Additionally, Taoists strive to identify with the
Tao, and to find harmony with the entire universe. In the pursuit of
the Tao, believers often rejected the social order in order to free
their minds and explore the life forces of the world. Taoists also
work to act in harmony with the Tao and to conform to the way of
nature rather than struggling against.
2. Wu wei is a Taoist principle that means acting in harmony with
nature. The principle of wu wei says order to merge with the Tao,
human beings should conform to the ways of nature rather than
struggling against it. The best example of wu wei is water because
water has no form, but conforms to the shape of what surrounds it. The
example of water basically defines wu wei because water is weak, yet
strong. It does not push the limits of its surroundings, yet it has
the ability to cause destruction.
3. If a bird’s nest fell out of a tree, I do not believe that a Taoist
would put the bird’s nest back. According to the principles of Taoism,
one must conform to the ways of nature and allow the forces of nature
to persevere. I believe that a Taoist would not replace the bird’s
nest because they would think of it as nature’s natural way and
putting it back would be a struggle against or obstruction to
nature.
4. I believe that a Taoist would not agree with today’s hunting
regulations. I believe this because Taoists are concerned with the
relationship between people and the natural elements of the universe.
According to a Taoist, hunting as a sport would disrupt the natural
relationship between the humans and the universe. Hunting for food
could be considered a natural part of the universe, but hunting for
sport would certainly not be accepted by a Taoist.
5. Confucianism and Taoism differ in their philosophies regarding
relationships, social order, and nature. Confucianism focuses on the
development of a political society and the ways in which a social
organization can achieve social and political harmony. Confucianism
also focuses on five major relationships that show importance
involving superior and inferior individuals. On the other hand, Taoism
emphasizes the relationship between people and the universe. Taoism
seems to cover some of the natural and underlying subjects that
Confucianism ignored. Taoism also liberates the imagination of the
individual and encouraged people to not conform to a designated social
order. There are positives and negatives to each outlook. Confucianism
has some positive elements because it focuses on strong relationships
between families, elders, and respected officials, sets forth duties
for a good ruler that promote equality for the common people, and it
places a high value on the virtues of wisdom, benevolence, and
fortitude. However, Confucianism focuses on conformity and so if
people work towards the goal of conforming to the masses, they may not
have a great sense of their relationship with the world. On the other
hand, many of the positives of Confucianism are negatives of Taoism.
Since Taoists focus on their relationship with the world and they
hesitate to conform, a Taoist may not be in tune with their political
and social surroundings.
6. In China, Taoism may be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy
because it encourages the rejection of social order, liberation of the
mind, and non-conformity. Although the main ideal of Taoism is
conforming to the ways of nature and forming a strong relationship
with the “Way” of the world, some aspects of Taoism could certainly be
seen as anti-government or anti-establishment. It is possible that
some ordinary Chinese citizens were very accepting of Taoism because
they felt it could liberate them from the stresses and hardships of a
“busy” life and free them from the constricting politics and unbending
social order. However, it is possible that Taoist extremists who fight
for non-conformity could be seen as dissidents, which would shine a
negative light on the philosophy.

[Leah Coppage-Gross]

1. Taoism is the Chinese philosophy that deals with the relationship
between humans and the entire universe. It focuses on the Tao, or the
way, which is the eternal, unchanging force in the universe. It
allows people to imagine the extreme possibilities in life and it
opens up creativity to think of the impossible. The Tao itself is
believed to be present in everything, and for this reason, Lao-tzu
didn’t want to give it a name. It is an undefined presence that can
be seen everywhere.
2. Taoism speaks of being in harmony with the entire universe. Wu wei
is a concept that focuses mainly on acting in harmony with nature.
People should not contend with the forces of nature but rather just
“go with the flow.” Everyone should conform to the way of nature and
just let it take them wherever they may need to go.
3. If a bird’s nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would ignore it. The
nest falling out of the tree is an act of nature and part of the force
of nature. A Taoist believes that if that nest fell, it was meant to
fall, and returning it would disrupt the forces of nature. This would
be an example of acting out against the forces of nature.
4. A Taoist would view hunting in today’s society as being a sinful
act that goes against the ways of the universe. All living creatures
are part of nature, and deliberately killing one for personal benefit
would be seen as a violent and unjust act. A Taoist would not look
kindly upon modern hunting regulations of just killing for pure sport.
5. Confucianism and Taoism act complimentary to each other.
Confucianism focuses on the way a society should be run. It comes
with a set of duties and rules that a person should follow in order to
do their part in the society. This is beneficial because it would
help to establish an orderly society where everyone knows where they
belong, what virtues to follow, and the proper relationships to have.
The disadvantage of this would be that it would most likely be hard to
find an honest ruler who rules fairly without becoming corrupt and
greedy with power. It is also possible that certain groups of people
wouldn’t like conforming to a strict society where everything has
rules laid down. This, in turn, could cause revolt. In contrast to
this philosophy, Taoism is a much more free, spiritual and liberating
concept. It is very healthy for a mental state because it allows
people to go beyond human boundaries and imagine the ways of the
universe. It is also good because it speaks of a force that connects
all people which is cause for a very harmonious way of living. The
disadvantages of this philosophy could be perhaps the over-eccentric
ideas that could emerge. When you give people freedom, it is possible
that they will run away with it. Opening up this idea to a society
could cause some unexpected strange results.
6. Taoism could have a very rejuvenating and liberating effect on
ordinary Chinese people. When people start to believe in the amazing
forces of nature and the universe and of a force that is eternal,
unchanging, and present everywhere, the imagination is allowed to
soar. With such ideas present, the people might start to believe in
things higher up than their societal boundaries. For this reason, it
is possible for Taoism to be seen as an anti-establishment
philosophy. Since it speaks of no material limitations and only of
the universe, it doesn’t exactly commend government and highly-
structured civilization. However, I don’t think that this was the
intent of the philosophy itself, but when applied by certain
individuals, it can act as an anti-establishment philosophy.

[Matt Ming]

1. Tao is the “Way”, and is a concept in many Chinese philosophies.
Lao-tzu, the founder of Taoism, believed that Tao was everywhere but
had no definitive shape or definition and, thus, was not and could not
be named. To Taoists, the Tao is seen as the “Way” of the universe,
and Taoists sought to seek harmony with it. Tao is illustrated or
seen as a force, eternal and unchanging, that permeates throughout all
of nature and attempts to bring it together and unify it.
2. Wu wei is described as becoming one with nature. Essentially, wu
wei states that one should not try to fight nature, but should simply
let it run its course and follow its rules. This also means that
people should strive to remain uncorrupted by the conventions of
society. Eventually, following this principle, one will reach a
harmony with nature.
3. I think that a Taoist would not put the nest back. Taoists believe
that nature should be left to run its course, neither interrupting it
nor helping it. Thus, they would feel that the falling nest is part
of nature’s course. A Taoist would surrender to the force of nature,
letting nature run its course by not changing anything and not putting
the nest back.
4. I feel that a Taoist would appreciate the hunting regulations but
might have some reservations. A Taoist would probably feel that, by
hunting, one is disturbing the natural order of life. A Taoist would
probably just want animals to die of natural causes and not want
people to interfere. However, I feel that a Taoist would not mind if
people hunt for food. Humans are animals too and need food just like
any other animal. I feel that a Taoist would want people to be able
to sustain themselves, and stay connected with nature as a part of
nature.
5. It is stated that while Confucianism and Taoism differ, they are
not “mutually exclusive”. This means that they can coexist and can
even be implemented together. However, there are some fundamental
differences. Confucianism puts emphasis on one’s place in society.
However, Taoism encouraged people to focus on the self and one’s
relationship to the entire universe. Further, Confucianism extols
conformity, while Taoism encourages imagination and individuality,
even nonconformity. Confucianism stresses order and one’s role in
society and working to further integrate oneself in the community, but
sacrificing individuality for conformity. Taoism removes one from the
community to focus on the self and being an individual and eventually
finding harmony with nature.
6. Taoism might have encouraged everyday people to become less
interested in society, and, at the extreme, to shun society for a more
naturalistic, contemplative approach. It might also have encouraged
people to become more creative than before. I feel that Taoism is an
anti-establishment philosophy because its ideals oppose those of the
ordered society envisioned by Confucius. Thus, Taoism would have
disrupted and run counter to the teachings of Confucianism, which were
the most widely accepted.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Sarah]

1. Lao-Tzu didn't want to give the Tao a name because, since it has no
form, naming it would make it seem like a separate entity from the
actual, physical universe. It is illustrated as the "Way" of the
universe and the force that makes everything in the universe work as
it does. It is somewhat similar to the Hindu concept of Brahman.

2. Wu wei is the principle of "acting in harmony with nature". Humans
are not supposed to struggle against the universe or have their own
ways of doing things which are against nature. Rather, they are
supposed to be like water, whose only form is conforming to that which
is around it.

3. If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would not put it back
because they believe that nature has its own way and it is not our
place to interfere, that would be against the principle of wu wei.
Furthermore, they believe that it is our job to be in harmony with the
Tao, the universal Way, so acting against what seems like fate or a
natural force would not be following the rules of Taoism. Besides,
Taoism praised nonconformity to society when it was deemed necessary,
so the worry that one woud seem unkind for not replacing the nest
would not bother a strict Taoist.

4. In my opinion, a Taoist would agree with hunting regulations
because they would believe that humans had gone beyond a natural or
necessary amount of hunting. To occasionally kill a deer for food or
clothing is one thing, but when the deer population and the ecosystem
surrounding it is unstable because of this behavior, a Taoist would
agree that some sort of restriciton is necessary.

5. Confucianism deals with politics and relations in a larger social
context, while Taoism deals mainly with individual conduct and its
relations to nature and the universe. Taoism also encouraged
nonconformity, unlike Confucianism, and its interest in a long life
and intellectual development caused much scientific development, while
Confucianism did nothing to enhance the technology of the time.

6. Taoism would have likely caused much nonconformist behavior as
people reevaluated their role and actions in society to better be in
harmony with the natural world. As a result it could definitely be
seen as an anti-establishment policy because it encouraged
eccentricity and unusual values and did not concern itself with its
impact on a person's relations within society or on society as a
whole.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Andrew Lin]

1.The Taoist philosophy. one of the preeminent methods of thought in
China, was first codified by legendary philosopher Lao-tzu in the
still-excellent Tao Te Ching. Central to this philosophy is the Tao,
referring to (in the eyes of the Taoists) the Way of all of existence.
Believing that the Tao was an eternal, unchanging, indefagitable
force, Lao-tzu stated that the Tao cannot be fully defined, as it is,
quite literally, “everything”. Illustrations of this mystical force
include forces of nature, the relations of individuals to nature, and
the very unity of an individual with the universe. Enshrining a unique
sense of spontaneity, Taoism can perhaps be best defined as “going
with the flow”, finding harmony with the universe, and eventually
merging through understanding of the Tao with eternity.
2.Wu Wei, the concept of acting in harmony with nature, emphasizes
that people should indeed adapt to the forces of nature instead of
trying to reshape or go against them. Remaining pure, uncontaminated
by the artifice of society and custom and ritual, is one of the major
ideals that Wu Wei entails.
3.If a bird's nest were to fall out of a tree, a Taoist would not pick
it up, as to do so would be an attempt to oppose the will of nature –
namely, in making a bird's nest fall down via the power of gravity.
Following the principle of Wu Wei, where not even water should be
opposed, would justify not picking up the bird's nest.
4.Taoists would view hunting regulations in today's society with a
certain disdain and dislike, as these regulations, foisted upon people
by a contaminated, impure society, would impede the process of those
wishing to achieve unity with Tao. By restricting natural behavior
(the wish to hunt and obtain food) and preventing spontaneity in
behavior, regulations would inherently be opposed to the free spirit
of Taoism.
5.Confucianism – a philosophy first described by Confucius in the 5th
century BC – and Taoism are, by their very natures, quite different.
While Confucianism espouses a reverence of institutions, family, and
ritual, Taoism does away entirely with those concepts, replacing the
music of ancient tradition with the “music of the spheres”. Despite
this fundamental gap in perspectives, both Confucianism and Taoism
share many similarities. Both place emphasis on balance in
relationships; Confucianism stresses the importance of balanced
familial and societal relationships, while Taoism requires equilibrum
between the individual and the universe. Their respective origins –
both stemming from China – allowed for Taoist philosophy to influence
many Chinese in conjunction with Confucianism; often people would
choose aspects from both philosophies. Both have inspired religions
with innumerable deities, Confucianism through its custom of ancestor
worship and Taoism through its ancient religion.
6.The Taoist philosophy, a breath of invigorating freedom in the rigid
structure of dynastic Chinese life, certainly has had and will
continue to have a massive impact on the thinking patterns of Chinese
all over the world. Considering China's history with monolithic,
massive institutions, Taoism offers a release, a promise of freedom
from the strictures of ritual and bureaucracy. In this vein, Taoism
can be seen as an actively anti-authoritarian philosophy; due to its
eschewing of large institutions, Taoist adherents have had to deal
with much oppression from the monolithic Maoist government of the 20th
century. Ignoring the concerns of petty modern society, a new breed of
asceticism bourne out of Taoism has emerged – and as society grows
more complicated and convoluted, Taoism shall only increase in
popularity among reasonably-minded people seeking respite from an
illogical world.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Lindsay Korzekwa]

1) Lao-tzu believed that the Tao should remain nameless for multiple
reasons. The Tao means the "Way of the whole observable universe" and
it is believed to be "an eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force
that pervades and unifies all nature." Lao-tzu believed that it is
impossible to give something without form a name, that would be
oversimplifying an undefinable concept. The main goal of Taoists is to
become one with the Tao, and therefore with eternity. In order to
achieve that, they believe that it is essential to be "natural and
spontaneous."

2) Wu wei, meaning acting in harmony with nature, is one way of
joining the Tao. Some compared the concept with water, as it has no
form and will conform to its surroundings. Water is also very weak on
its own, but when combined with more will create a powerful force of
nature. Like water, humans should adhere to nature's ways, rather than
those of society. In this way, we are not struggling against the
universe, but rather living in harmony with it, making it easier to
merge with the Tao.

3) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, it is unlikely that a Taoist
would put it back, even to save any birds in it. Such occurrences are
seen as part of nature, as something that should be left alone rather
than tampered with. If the nest was put back, that would be
interrupting nature's natural patterns and disturbing its harmony.

4) A Taoist could most likely look at today's hunting regulations in
different ways. By hunting animals for no reason other than sport, one
is interrupting nature's natural order. By choosing to take the life
of an animal, one is not conforming to nature but rather trying to
change it. If, however someone was hunting for food, that would
probably be seen as acceptable, as that is a natural process of life
and what humans were built to do.

5) Confucianism and Taoism promote very different sets of beliefs.
Confucianism emphasizes conformity, and preaches that a traditional
and moral society is the best way of ensuring peace. One's place in a
community was very strictly designated, each with its own duties and
obligations. Taoism on the other hand, is much more focused on the
individual's place in the universe rather than society as a whole.
Imagination and non-conformity were encouraged, and Taoists in general
"had an original way of looking at things, at phenomena of nature,
indeed at the universe." On each side there are numerous advantages
and disadvantages. In a Confucianist society, order would be upheld
well, but it would be exceedingly difficult to achieve much progress.
The community would be left static, unable to evolve with the rest of
the world. On the other hand, a Taoist society could be so focused on
individuality and non-conformity that complete chaos ensues. Without
some element of structure, it would be impossible to achieve some form
of order.

6) In China, Taoism could have affected ordinary people by encouraging
imagination and creativity. Rather than simply doing what has always
been done, they would most likely try something new. By looking at
life in different ways, time spent on science could have increased,
with perhaps less emphasis on history. They could also have found
themselves questioning government policies, and thinking for
themselves rather than blindly following orders. In this way, Taoism
could definitely be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Alex Kim]

1. Lao-tzu said that the Tao cannot be named or defined because it has
no form, even though it is present in everything. It is an "eternal,
everlasting, and unchanging force" that unifies nature. It has less to
do with physical form, but rather it is an intangible force that
unifies all nature.

2. Wu wei is the principle of acting in harmony with nature. It means
that a person should not struggle against the universe, but rather use
nature and the universe for mutual benefit. An example of wu wei is
water, that conforms to the nature around it. In the same way, humans
should conform to nature and remain unchanged and "unspoiled" by
society.

3. A Taoist would most likely leave a bird's nest that had fallen from
a tree on the ground. If it fell on the ground, then it fell there for
a reason according to nature. A Taoist is not supposed to struggle
against nature but rather conform to it. If something happened in
nature, it is not the responsibility or the right of a person to
interfere.

4. A Taoist would probably view hunting regulations favorably. If
someone is supposed to exist in nature peacefully and harmoniously,
then it would follow that he did not kill animals. For this reason I
think that a Taoist would think of hunting regulations, which restrict
killing animals and struggling against nature, as a good thing.

5. While Confucianism focused upon values relating to society and
politics, Taoism had to do with individual, natural, and non-societal
concerns. Each has its place, and both can be followed at the same
time. They do not contradict each other, but rather provide different
sets of rules for different situations. While Taoism emphasizes the
relationship between people and nature, Confucianism is concerned with
people and their place in society. Both are very different, but
equally important.

6. Taoism may have affected the ordinary person in China in how they
live their life. Because it places an emphasis on the individual, and
how he interacts with nature, it can be applicable to anyone in any
situation. It has probably also affected the average person because
Taoists developed many medicines, inventions, and practices that still
exist in prevalence today. Taoism could be seen as anti-establishment
because it places so much emphasis on the individual. Whereas
Confucianism provided rules for living in a structured, hierarchical
society, Taoism focused on the individual, and for that reason could
be considered anti-establishment.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Yuichiro Iwamoto]

1. Lao-tzu does not want to give the Tao a name, because it simply
means the eternal universal "way". He thought that because the term
Tao encompassed so many things, it did not have a definite form and
thus could not have a definite name. Tao is often associated with
water because water conforms to nature, but through conforming, it
leaves a mark in even the biggest of terrains such as mountains. This
seemingly paradoxical nature of water is often compared to Tao itself.
2. Wu wei basically means to follow all of nature's rules, but at the
same time not let the mind become polluted with man-made customs and
norms. The rules of the universe unlike that of society are permanent,
and one should not try to resist it.
3. A Taoist would not put back the bird if the bird had fell out of
the nest on its own or through natural forces. In that case, it was
destiny that had pushed the bird out. Putting the bird back in the
nest would only result in tempering with the order of nature and only
cause disruption. Even if the bird was pushed over by a human, a human
is still an animal, so relocating the bird in the nest would mean
tampering with fate.
4. I think that Taoists would welcome hunting regulations, because the
whole reason why there needs to be hunting regulations is because
human society has caused devastating damage to the animals of the
world. Through regulation, a Taoist would feel as though the balance
of nature is being restored through the preservation of biodiversity.
Although one could argue that hunting is a natural part of life for
man, in current day society people hunt not for survival but rather
for amusement which greatly contradicts the rules of nature. No law of
nature could justify killing an animal for amusement. Only the
struggle for survival should produce such outcomes.
5. Confucianism looks at the society as a whole and Taoism focuses on
the individual pursuing the faith. Some advantages to Confucianism is
the preservation of social order (at least in theory) and the
establishment of a strong benevolent government. Through virtues such
as Filial piety and altruism, mutual relationships can be assured and
will likely lead to happiness. A disadvantage of Confucianism is that
it completely ignores the needs of an individual. It does not consider
man's curious nature to question order around him such as the "golden
rule". Because of this, Confucianism will probably not be able to
advance at the same rate as Taoism. Taoism's advantage is that it
promotes research and questioning. A man is welcomed to observe nature
and find ways to merge with the Tao. Through this mind set, many
technological advancements have been made by scholars of this faith.
However, Taoism strongly discourages conforming to any rules of
society which prevent the formation of government or any form of
organization to oversee the people.
6. Taoism would probably have effected the people of China very
negatively (from the government's perspective) because it causes
people to question the norm. It strongly discourages conforming to
society, thus changing the Chinese government system where the good of
the country is the priority. Because of this, people would probably
not be as obedient to the government, resulting in more protests and
strikes. Because of this, I believe Taoism could be seen as an anti-
establishment philosophy.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Hannah North]

1) Lao-Tzu is against giving the Tao a name simply because Tao is an
eternal and everlasting force that cannot succumb to a label.It is
present in all things, and that fact alone makes it difficult to put a
name to. Taoism is an omnipresent force and one that really is meant
to show one's relationship with the universe as a whole. It exists in
all things and is entirely intangible. The idea is for people to be
able to exist in a sort of harmony with nature and the universe.
2) Wu wei is essentially the concept of being at one with nature. It
entails being able to go along with what nature throws at us instead
of fighting it. Water is used to illustrate this concept, because
water is shapeless and is able to conform to it's environment. Water
can exert immense strength, or be very feeble. In order to practice Wu
wei, you need to be able to be in harmony with the forces of nature
3) From what I can tell, if a Taoist came across a birds nest that had
fallen out of a tree, it would not pick it up. To do so would be going
against their belief that one needs to essentially go with the flow of
nature. To a Taoist, it would disrupt their harmony with the universe
if they altered natures course.
4) Since hunting disrupts harmony with nature, I believe that Taoists
would look favorably upon today's hunting regulations. Killing an
animal whether it's for food or simply for pleasure disrupts the ebb
and flow of the universe, and the regulations and restrictions put on
hunting attempt to quell this practice. Killing another living being
is not what the Taoists consider to be acting in one with nature.
5) Though Confucianism and Taoism share some similarities, they vary
on the fundamentals the two belief systems are defined by.
Confucianism focuses on being at one with society at large, while
Taoism is more about being in harmony with the universe and
nature.Each are good in their own ways. For one thing, since
Confucianism is so community based, it has the building blocks to
guide a successful society. However the individual might feel
undervalued. On the contrary, Taoism centers wholly around the
nurturing of the individual spirit, which again can be good, it can be
bad. While the individual may feel valued and spiritually nourished,
this doesn't make for a proper functioning society. Both religions
center around opposite extremes.
6) By placing such an emphasis on one's self and their relationship
with the universe, Taoism can affect the people of China by giving
them the means to withdrawal from society. Taoism places an emphasis
on the importance of inaction, which goes along with their kind of "go
with the flow" mentality". Beacuse of this, the people of China could
use these beliefs as means to sort of sit back and not take part in
societal concerns. I do feel that it can be seen as an anti-
establishment philosophy because it places so much emphasis on
internal tranquility and one's relationship with the universe instead
of society at large. These teachings have the ability to cause people
to develop a sort of resentment against the restraints that being in a
society provides.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[jblr...@aim.com]

1. Lao-tzu created the basic philosophical ideals of Taoism.
Although many Chinese philosophers had previously used the term Tao
which means the “Way”. Lao-tzu used the name Tao to refer to the
whole observable universe. Lao-tzu wanted to give Tao a name that
that was central to his philosophy. If Lao-tzu had give the Tao a
specific name because then the followers of Taoism would start to
depict an image of Taoism when it is supposed to be a central
concept. In different religions that praise one God, when people hear
the term “God” they automatically have an image of “God” that comes to
mind, depending on how God is taught in their religion. Lao-tzu did
not want this happening with Taoism. Taoism is not one specific
aspect, it relates to the whole world. Tao represented an
everlasting, unchanging and eternal force that brings together all of
nature and is present in everything. The naming of Tao was also
important because all of its followers indentified with the expression
and it became a symbol of being in harmony with the entire universe.

Some illustrations of Tao include people spending time exploring
nature and the universe. In Taoism, everything can and should be
observed and classified and categorized. As a result of this,
exploration the art of navigation was furthered through the magnetic
compass, which interestingly pointed south. Taoists reject social
order and focus instead on imagination and natural, spontaneous
behavior. Because Tao is limitless, it also explored immortality and
the concept of an elixir that would extend life, which lead to the
practice of alchemy.

2. Wu wei is a concept which merges with Tao by following the
principle that people should act in harmony with nature. Instead of
trying to change and go against the forces of nature, people should
work with this powerful and natural force. The readings indicate that
water is one of the best examples of what wu wei because it conforms
to whatever shape is around it. Wu wei would support the idea that we
should live more as one in nature and not try to change it. The
Taoists would approve much more of the lifestyle of the American
Indian over the lifestyle of people living in New York City today.

3. If a bird’s nest fell out of tree, a Taoist would ignore it and
not place it back in the tree. The reason for this choice is that
Taoist believe that nature should be left alone to follow its course
and the people should not interfere in its path. Even if the result
of leaving the nest on the ground would be for the bird to die, a pure
Taoist would say this is the direction that nature meant for the bird
to take. They would believe that that was supposed to happen, that
nature is beautiful just the way it is.

4. A Taoist would be adamantly against hunting and would vote for
regulations that would prohibit this activity (such as anti-gun
legislation). They believe that people should follow the forces of
nature and that it should be left unspoiled. Hunting and killing
these animals in nature would certainly fit into their belief that we
should act in harmony with nature. By hunting and killing animals,
Taoist would believe that we are directly interfering with the harmony
of nature and destroying the way that life for these animals are
supposed to be.

5. Confucianism and Taoism are philosophies that emerged in the same
timeframe (5th century BC). These philosophies complement each other
but their core beliefs are very different. Interestingly, people were
often influenced by both of these teachings. Confucianism focused on
conformity whereas Taoism celebrated the differences in people.
Confucianism focused on the society as a whole and the development of
a moral and harmonious political society. Taoism took a different
perspective, as it focused on the individual and their relationship
with the larger universe. I believe that a person who was influenced
in both teaching would be a very religiously-rounded person and have a
wide perspective and big outlook on life. A person like this would be
interested in focusing on themselves as a person and how the interact
with nature and the world but would also be knowledgeable on society
as a whole.

6. Taoism would have a great impact on the people in China because
this large population has been taught uniformity and the government’s
priorities were much more in line with the concepts of Confucianism.
The Taoist would have encouraged the ordinary people in China to break
out and do what they wanted to do to meet their individual needs.
Taoism could be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
would mock people who followed a set and stringent behavior that was
prescribed by the establishment. Taoism lost favor as the need for
conformity became a priority in China. However, the Tao philosophy
did affect China especially in terms of the people’s outlook of the
universe and the importance of mental and physical health for the
human body.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Becky Maz]

1.) Tao, which, to Taoists is defined as the 'universal way' is not
given a specific name or form. This is because of Lao-tzu, whose
perception of Taoism was added to the religion after its initial
development. Lao-tzu felt that because the Tao included the entire
universe and beyond, that there was no proper way to pin a specific
definition on the Tao, or any name that would capture the entire
essence of the Tao. Some illustrations of the Tao have included
physical, but God-like beings, usually meditating, indicating the way
to proper unity with the univers, as well as the ying-yang symbol.

2.) The concept of wu wei is the idea that rather than fighting
against the forces of nature, humans should learn to move with natural
elements and occurances. One example that was often used to explain wu
wei was through the element of water. It is strong, and has power, yet
it chooses to conform to its surroundings in order to fit in the
world.

3.) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, I think that a Taoist would
observe the nest, feel pity for the bird whose nest it is, and the
eggs that may lie in that nest, but they would not pick it up,
understanding that it was nature's way. They would not want to disturb
the natural ways of the universe.

4.) Although today's hunting regulations are often meant to protect
animals and/or make sure that their numbers are not severely depleted,
they would probably not be happy with them. This is simply because
hunting is a sport whose goal is to target and kill animals. Taoists
would not support hunting by any means, and would probably not
appreciate any regulations besides one saying that it is illegal to
kill any animal without the need to eat it.

5.) Confucianism is focused on the development of a moral and
harmonious relationship between humans and other humans. Confucianism
is more relevant to politics and social classes rather than a person's
connection with the universe, which is more prevalent in Taoism.
Taoism allows people to go with the flow, rather than worry about
their place in society.

6.) Taoism probably helped ordinary people in China to accept where
they stood in the world, and not worry about their current situation
too much, being that the universe is supposed to maintain its own
balance. This may have affected people in higher political positions,
who may have feared that they would hold no power over Taoists because
of their beliefs. I think that Taoism could be seen as an anti-
establishment philosophy, because people who believe in Taoism do not
believe in putting great weight on political and social statuses,
which is the definition of anti-establishment- non-conformity to
standard political and social principles in society.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[sean young]

1. Tao is believed to be an eternal, everlasting, and unchangeable
force that is present in everything. Because of this, Lau-tzu declared
that it has no form and cannot be named or defined. Taoism is mainly
concerned with the individual, emphasizing the relationship between
people and the universe and encouraging the imagination and
nonconformity of the individual.

2. Wu wei is, to put it simply, "going with the flow", meaning to let
life and the forces of nature take you wherever that they take you,
and not to struggle against those forces. Water was used as an example
of this, because water conforms to the container in which it is
placed, but yet water can literally wear away mountains. Similarly, wu
wei dictates that people should conform to the way of nature, not by
society.

3. If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would probably think
that nature has a purpose for that occurring, and would not touch it.
This is due to the whole "going with the flow" concept which says that
one should not try to change the occurrences of nature.

4. A Taoist would look down upon hunting in general, because the
Taoist belief is to let nature "do it's thing" and to not try to
change/fight it. So, that would mean that a hunter shouldn't kill an
animal, because the only animals meant for them are the ones that drop
dead of their own accord.

5. Confucianism and Taoism are basically opposites, in the sense that
Confucianism emphasizes the individual's conformity to society, while
Taoism emphasizes the individual's conformity to nature. while
Confucianism focused focused on people and their place in society and
government, Taoism focused on people and their place in the universe.
Taoism also stresses the liberation of the peoples' imaginations and
their nonconformity to societal norms.

6. I think that Taoism might cause ordinary people in China to try and
go against the will of the government and society, and try to focus on
their individuality. This can definitely be seen as an anti-
establishment philosophy, because by focusing on their individuality
and imagination, they are rejecting the strict rules and regulations
of the social order.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Emerson Congleton]

1) The Tao is not given a name because it encompasses and represents
everything in the "whole observable universe". The Tao exists in
everything, yet it "has no form and cannot be named or defined". The
main illustrations of the Tao are to be one with it, Taoists do not
conform to compulsory behavior and they focus on delving into the
realities of the universe.
2) Wu wei means to be acting in harmony with nature, and not fighting
against the natural forces of nature. It suggests that people should
let nature control their lives and not fit themselves to society.
3) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree a Taoist would leave it,
because if he interfered then it would be disrupting the cycle of
nature. However if the taoist had originally knocked the nest out of
the tree then in that case I think he would have put it back, because
it would have been an attempt at restoring the flow of nature after he
had changed it. Ultimately I think that the taoist would have done
whatever they felt kept nature balanced.
4) A taoist would view hunting regulations as a good thing because
they are part of a system to keep nature in check. it prevents humans
from killing too many animals and it prevents the animals from
becoming overpopulated. So even though it allows some animals to be
killed in a way that is not necessarily "natural", it still part of a
system to keep nature in check.
5) Confucianism is more focused on a harmonious society and their
place. Taoism is more based on an individual level and the
relationship between people and the whole universe. An advantage to
Confucianism is that it promotes harmony in society and that people
have their specific place, however it did not focus on other areas of
interest; such as art and science. While Taoism deals with subjects
that Confucianism ignores and explains the relationship between people
and the vast universe, however in Taoism society does not play a
role.
6) Taoism might have affected regular people in China because it moves
beyond the social aspects of their lives, which is a change especially
for women who had to always listen and obey others. It can definitely
be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it does not
require conformity with society which is exactly the opposite of what
the People's Republic of China wanted, and Taoists can also be very
eccentric and based on joining with the vast universe and fitting into
one's own place.

[Adam]

1. The Tao is an eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force that
pervades and unifies all of nature. It is present in everything, but
doesn't have a form and cannot be named or defined. This is why Lao-
tzu doesn't want to give the Tao a name. Even though it is everything,
it isn't a specific thing, and would be tough to be given a single
name. Since the Tao is believed to be an eternal force, a goal for
Taoists was to achieve unity with it and become at one with the forces
of nature for eternity.
2. The main concepts of wu wei is to do the best with the things that
the forces of the universe give you. One should follow the forces of
nature, but do it for their best benefit. In the handout, it was said
that one of the best illustrations for wu wei is water. Water conforms
to the shape of its surroundings. Water can be still and completely
harmless, but it also has the power to wear away at land. Humans
should be like the water. Achieve your goals while simultaneously not
fighting with the forces of the universe.
3. If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would most likely
leave the nest where it fell. From the information given about
Taoists, they usually attempt to adapt to the circumstances around
them and become flexible in order to do the best with the things they
get. If the natural forces of the universe caused the nest to fall,
then the Taoist wouldn't want to fight those forces.
4. A Taoist wouldn't like the hunting regulations in today's society.
Killing an animal simply for sport isn't a justifiable reason in the
eyes of a Taoist. Killing an animal is similar to killing a part of
nature, and Taoists want to become one with the forces of nature.
Therefore, they wouldn't enjoy today's hunting regulations because it
puts people further apart from becoming one with the forces of nature
and the universe.
5. Confucianism and Taoism differ from each other greatly, and because
of this, they are great complements for each other. Confucianism
mainly deals with one conforming to the rules of society. Confucianism
is good for making relationships with surrounding people because its
guidelines are mainly about things to do socially. Taoism differs
greatly. Taoism deals with the individual focusing on creating harmony
with nature and the universe. While Confucianism deals with rules for
social and political activities, Taoism deals with an individual's
relationship with nature, and this is why the two complement each
other.
6. Taoism can be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
encourages nonconformity and liberates the imagination of the
individual. Since it encourages imagination, it gets rid of the need
for strict boundaries and social orders. Taoism can affect the
ordinary people in China by giving them different points of view,
ideas, and values. They won't need to think and feel a specific way.
The imagination and individuality that Taoism encourages can be
powerful enough to push Taoists away from governmental ideas.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Saad Imran]

1.Taoism is concerned with Individuals and non-societal matters.
Taoism also liberated the imaginations of individuals and encouraged
nonconformity. Lao-Tzu did not want to give Tao a name because he
taught that the Tao is present in everything, yet it has no form and
cannot be named or defined. Additionally, Lao-Tzu said that all
Taoists sought to be identified with the Tapp, and to be in harmony
with the entire universe. Additionally Taoists believed the Tao to be
an everlasting force that pervades and unifies all of nature.
Furthermore Taoists also believed that the individual achieving unity
with eternity was also considered to be one with eternity.

2. I believe We Wei to be acting in harmony with nature. Wu wei
encourages to go with the natural flow of the World, and acting by not
acting in several aspects. I also believe that it is a one direction
force which no person can fight back, and instead one should work with
nature instead of fighting against it. Lastly, I believe a key idea is
the One should not be to indulged and corrupted by society, and should
work with ease and naturalness which can be only accomplished by
working with nature.

3. I believe if a true Taoist was to see a bird's nest fall out of a
tree, a Taoist would not put it back and just ignore it. I believe a
TRUE Taoist would do this because if they pick up the bird's nest it
would be against nature's will, and would disrupt the general harmony
of the environment. Additionally, If it is truly a bad thing for the
environment, the nature would take care of it and there is no need for
human interference. The most a Taoist might do to the Bird's nest is
just observe it.

4. I believe a Taoist would not view the hunting regulations in
today's society favorably. This is because the Taoist might believe
that hunting would ruin the harmonious nature of the world, and
hunting for sport especially is against the core values of a Taoist. A
Taoist might believe in further tightening the regulations on hunting
to make it just for necessary needs which would not ruin the
harmonious nature of the universe. Additionally, I believe although
Taoist would have objection of not many hunting regulations for
sport, they would be in support of no regulation for food as it does
not disrupt the harmony.

5. Confucianism and Taoism differ in that they are almost complete
opposite of each other in principle. First of all Confucianism and
Taoism differ in that Confucianism focuses on the development of a
moral and harmonious political activity and Taoism is concerned with
individual and non societal matters. Additionally Confucianism is
limited to the scope of people and their place in society and
government while Taoism has emphasis on relationships between people
and the universe. Additionally unlike Confucianism, Taoism does not
have societal order and instead soar into the world of imagination,
exploration, and the physical and poetic aspects of the universe.
Benefits of Confucianism are that it gives respect for culture,
education and knowledge. These ideologies form the best foundation on
the basis of which any nation could be governed. Other than
Confucianism making strong leaders, it also makes good attributes to a
person and teaches him to respect other people in their world. Some
negative aspects of Confucianism is that it does not allow one to
connect with nature and the outside world. It additionally seems that
one's inner self is more cleansed when it comes to following Taoism.
Both Confucianism and Taoism need a general balance when following.

6. Taoism could have affected the average individual in China as it
could have inspired them to have a more imaginative and exploratory
view on life and view on how to approach life. Additionally it
encourages free consideration of the relationship of man and universe
and it can very obviously be seen as a anti-establishment philosophy.
This is as Taoism can cause problems in the Government and social
order of China as Taoists don't believe in such things. Additionally
the intuitive nature of the Taoists was not very beneficial.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Preeya D&#39;mello]

1. Lao-tzu didn’t want to give a name to the Tao because he felt that
the Tao is present in everything, even though it has no form. Because
of this the Tao cannot be defined, and therefore it cannot be named.
Taoism promoted the idea of being in harmony with the universe. It
also wanted people to be free of the boundaries set by society, and
societal expectations. In addition to this, Taoism wanted its
followers to be free, natural, and spontaneous. Taoists were
encouraged to explore and observe their surroundings and use their
imagination to discover new things and expand their knowledge of the
universe.

2. “Wu wei” is the concept of existing and working with the forces of
nature. Followers of the principle of “wu wei” were encouraged to
follow the path of the universe and not struggle against it. Rather
than conforming to society’s rules, followers of “wu wei” should
follow nature and not be affected by society’s expectations or
opinions.

3. I believe that if a bird’s nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would
not put it back and would leave it alone. This is because a Taoist
would trust in the universe and believe that the bird’s nest falling
is part of nature’s plan. It would be against Taoist beliefs to
contradict nature’s ways.

4. A Taoist would be very against modern society’s hunting
regulations. The first reason is because hunting and killing animals
would be going against nature and because it means that you are trying
to control nature instead of conforming to it. Also, animals are
viewed as a part of nature and by killing them it would not be
considered “becoming one with nature”. Instead it would be viewed as
rebelling against nature, and therefore somewhat rebelling against the
universe. This completely goes against Taoist beliefs, and therefore a
Taoist would be very against today’s hunting regulations.

5. Confucianism is centered on an individual strengthening their
relationship with society and maintaining the traditional rituals. An
advantage of Confucianism is being able to create a strong culture,
and uphold close relationships with your friends and family. A
disadvantage is that the society may have a hard time progressing
farther if they hold on too tight to the past. Taoism, on the other
hand, is centered on becoming one with nature and the universe and
breaking free of societal rules and rituals. An advantage to Taoism is
that it allows you to explore and discover new things about your
surroundings. This can lead to new inventions or medications which
would help the society progress faster and farther. A disadvantage to
Taoism is that one may not be able to create such close relationships
with friends and family. In addition to this, you may not be able to
create a strong culture for your country, or community. Although
culture and tradition is not something that Taoism thinks highly of,
it may be important to some followers, or others in the community.

6. Taoism may have affected ordinary people in China by encouraging
them to think more about self-improvement instead of improving the
society or community as a whole. Also, it may have affected ordinary
people by having them celebrate fewer traditional holidays, and
perhaps Taoism may have stopped them altogether. Taoism could
definitely been seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
encourages people to become more individual and not conform to society
rules. Also, it encourages people to look at their surroundings more
and make new discoveries. This may have gone against the governments
rules, and thus would make Taoism and anti-establishment philosophy.

[Claire]

1. Tao is essentially a pervasive, universal force that underlies and
unites all nature. It is the central dogma of the philosophy of
Taoism, founded in the 5th century B.C. by Lao-tzu. According to his
teachings, the force of Tao is present in everything, yet it cannot be
defined or manifested in a single form. Thus, Lao-tzu did not see it
fit, nor possible, to give the Tao a definitive name. The concept of
Tao is illustrated by the rejection of social order in favor of
exploring imagination. Taoists sought to pursue the Tao by living in
harmony with the universe, and to be free, natural, and spontaneous in
their actions and thoughts.

2. Wu wei is the concept of acting in harmony with nature. Instead of
attempting to struggle against the forces of the universe, Taoists
sought to follow them and go with the natural flow of life's events.
Exemplified by water, which takes the shape of its surroundings, the
principle of wu wei cites that the doer should essentially conform to
the flow of nature, ignoring external pressures, such as societal
expectations, so that the flow his or her natural course is
uninterrupted.

3. As a Taoist follows the belief of acting in accordance with the way
of the universe, I do not believe that a person in pursuit of Tao
would pick up a fallen bird's nest. The falling of the bird's nest
represents an action of the universe; it is the way the universe
decided things should be. For a Taoist to pick the nest up and return
it to the tree would go against fundamental Taoist values of going
with the flow of the universe, as he would be interrupting the natural
course that the universe had intended for the nest.

4. A Taoist would most likely disapprove of hunting regulations in
today's society, which allow for the slaughter of animals for sport.
Although some hunting regulations protect animals in certain
locations, many regulations still delineate numerous places where
hunters are allowed to shoot game. For a human to kill animals would
violate basic Taoist beliefs of aligning oneself with the natural
course of the universe, as the human would be interrupting the
universe's intended course for the animal. If modern hunting
regulations banned hunting completely, then a Taoist would undoubtedly
be pleased.

5. While Taoism focuses on the individual's harmonious relationship
with the natural course of the universe, Confucianism centers on the
development of a harmonious and moral political society instead.
Taoism emphasizes the individual's pursuit of an ideal, Tao, and
addresses mostly non-societal matters, almost promoting eccentricity.
Conversely, Confucianism addresses precisely what Taoism ignores, and
encourages people to fit into a social structure. It is therefore said
that the two philosophies can compliment each other, as one
supplements where the other is lacking. It can also be said that the
weaknesses of each philosophy are what each of them is missing; Taoism
delineates very minimal guidelines calling for social integration, and
Confucianism says little about the pursuit of individual imagination.
The advantages would be what each philosophy focuses on: Taoism in its
high regard of the individual spirit, and Confucianism in its
attention to the maintenance of social order.

6.Taoism may have affected ordinary people in China through its
emphasis on the individual; that is, Taoism encouraged nonconformity
and pursuit of the individual's imagination. The people of China may
have seen this as a liberating philosophy that could free them from
the communist constraints of society. Thus, Taoism could be seen as an
anti-establishment philosophy because it encouraged people to break
from the expectations of conforming to society under the government.
Taoists would most likely fail to follow government guidelines for a
stable and economic social hierarchy, as Taoism, according to the
packet, "encouraged nonconformity, even to the point of eccentricity".
They would be too caught up in the pursuit of Tao to care about social
structure, ergo weakening establishment.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:

[Irina Ahn]

1. Taoism according to Lao-tzu, has no form and cannot be defined or
named because it exists in everything. Taoists sought to be in harmony
with the entire universe. The Tao was eternal and more about the
individual gaining unity otherwise being one with eternity. The Tao
was to be an eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force that unifies
all of nature.
2. Wu Wei is being in harmony with the universe and letting the
universe guide you on your way/ path. Wu Wei is also being one with
nature individually and being able to adapt to your surroundings in
nature.
3. A Taoist would most likely leave the nest there. Because they would
believe that that was what happened due to the forces of nature and
would like to go with the flow of it by keeping with nature unchanging
forces that caused it to fall.
4. Taoists would view hunting as unfavorable. One reason is because it
would effect the forces and flow of nature by killing one of nature's
animals and disrupting the unity of nature. But regulations on hunting
would be more favorable to Taoists because of the fact that it is
preventing hunting from effecting the balance and unity of nature.
5. Confucianism is more centered around the idea of unity within the
society. While Taoism is more about having unity with the individual
and nature. While confucianism was a strong philosophy for society,
while the society would be strong and stable, on an individual basis,
some individuals philosophies would be weak. On the other hand, while
in Taoism, the individual bonds with nature were strong, the unity
between the society would be weaker in itself.
6. Taoism can be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
went against the conformity and unity between the society that the
government was trying to place on China. Taoism would have allowed
ordinary people to focus more on the individual level and beliefs,
which would have taken the ordinary people further away from
conforming with society laws and the government. The ordinary people
would have lived by their own beliefs to fulfill their Tao, unity with
nature, instead of following the government, which would have created
instability and a weak society, which wouldn't fulfill confucianism
beliefs.

[ds]

1. Lao Tzu didn't want to give Tao a name because he believed it to be
an omnipresent force, present in everything, but it had no form and
thus could not be defined or named. Taoist writings often used
paradoxes to explain how nature works. For instance, nothing is weaker
than water, and yet water can wear down mountains. Another example is
a bowl--people use bowls to hold things, but the usefulness of the
bowl comes from the absence of its own absence in its center. What
gives the bowl the ability to hold things is "where it isn't"; the
emptiness or absence of the object itself gives it its usefulness.

2. Wu wei means a harmonious coexistence with nature. Instead of
struggling with natural forces, submission to nature and not to
society will lead to greater and more pure existence. People should
follow nature.

3. A Taoist, I believe, would ignore the nest, because of the concept
of wu wei. To replace the nest in its original spot would be to alter
the ultimate course of nature. Struggling against nature is fruitless;
a Toaist lets things run their natural course.

4. The first and most obvious response to this answer would be that a
Taoist would find modern hunting to conflict with the goal of
harmonious coexistence with nature. Killing for sport contradicts the
idea of going along with the natural course of things. However, there
was nothing in the packet saying hunting was frowned upon by Taoists,
and so if hunting is used as a continuation of nature's food chain, I
don't think a Taoist would have to be particularly offended. I think
that hunting regulations aid the idea of Taoism, because the hunting
regulations make sure that the balance of nature doesn't get disturbed
by providing rules as to what and how many animals can be killed.
Essentially, hunting regulations are there to insure that people don't
go against nature.

5. Confucianism focuses on social structure and showing people how to
behave in their place in the hierarchy. Taoism's focal point is more
on the individual and the interaction with the universe as a whole. On
the one hand, Confucianism's hierarchy does pave way for a functioning
society to emerge and prosper, but it offers basically two roles:
superior and subservient. These two roles offer little room for
change. Taoism, although it does not propose many specifics as to how
society should work, offers more freedom to decide one's role in life.

6. Taoism would have been a new concept to the Chinese. People would
have been attracted to the idea that one's role in society wasn't set
in stone, but the government and higher-ups that benefited from the
Confucian hierarchy probably would have been threatened by this. I
think parallels can be drawn from Taoism's effect on people to
Communism's effect on people. Although the two concepts are hardly
similar, people all over the world in all sorts of governments were
attracted to Communism as a new way of life. Governments and
aristocrats who had benefited from an older system were threatened by
Communism as well. A big difference, however, is that Taoism can sort
of combine with Confucianism so that a person can see their role in
society AND the universe. So although they differ, certain
interpretations of the philosophies can be compatible, and in this way
I don't think it can be seen as anti-establishment.

[Grace]

1. Lao-tzu, the original founder of Taoism did not want to give the
Tao a name because he believed that it represented the universe and
the “eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force” that pervades and
unifies all of nature. He believed that this force was much too large
to be defined by man. He said that the Tao is everywhere and
impossible to locate specifically, therefore one should be in harmony
with nature and act spontaneously to find the Tao.
2. Wu wei is the Taoist concept of acting in harmony with nature.
Furthermore, this concept says that to merge with the Tao, human
beings should go with the ways of nature, rather than struggling
against them. By following this principle Taoists believe that they
will be in better harmony with nature.
3. If a bird’s nest fell out of a tree I do not believe that a Taoist
would place it back. I think this because Taoist principles say to
act in harmony with nature and state that a person should not
“struggle against the forces of nature.” Putting the nest back would
be corrupting natural forces, and therefore going against the natural
way.
4. I believe that a Taoist would be in support of today’s hunting
regulations. Hunting regulations prohibit hunters from killing
wildlife in many areas and during certain seasons. These regulations
help save the lives of many species of animals. Of course I do think
that a Taoist would not like the idea of hunting for fun in general,
but anything that cuts down on the number of animals being killed
should be looked at favorably. Hunting for fun is not harmonious
with nature’s way; it is direct interference with the universe for no
real purpose.
5. Confucianism and Taoism are beliefs that differ. Confucianism
concerns people and their place in society and government. Taoism
concerns people interacting with nature and the universe. In many
ways they are polar opposites. Confucianism puts emphasis on
conformity to society and government norms. Taoism puts emphasis on
individuality, imagination, self-discovery, and spontaneity.
Confucianism is about the group, the masses, the majority. Taoism is
about the specific person, his differences, his opinions, and his
mind. Confucianism can be good for uniting a country and strengthen
pride and togetherness in government. Taoism can be good for the arts
and sciences. It can benefit the society and discoveries/creations
in various fields by specific people.
6. I agree that Taoism could be seen as “anti-establishment.” Taoism
promotes the rejection of social order, togetherness, unity, and
conformity. It promotes individual thought, imagination, and
achievement. Some people accepted Taoism because it freed them from
everyday life, which could be considered societal responsibilities and
government obligations. Those who believed in non-conformity could be
seen as dissidents. This would create a negative perception of the
ideals of philosophy.

[Julia Bryck]

1. Lao-tzu does not want to give the Tao a name because it is not a
definite, tangible concept. The Tao is found in everything and creates
unity in the universe; therefore it is indefinable as one descript
form. Taoists believed the Tao to be "an eternal, everlasting, and
unchangeable force that pervades and unifies all nature." This meant
that by striving to become identified with the Tao, they were seeking
to be one with eternity, nature, and the universe as a whole.

2. Wu wei is living without attempting to disobey the forces of
nature. Instead, one must try to constantly be in harmony with nature
and conform to the boundaries it sets. By doing this, a person can
become closer to the Tao.

3. If a Taoist witnessed a bird's nest fall out of a tree, I do not
think they would question it. Keeping with the concept of wu wei, a
Taoist would believe that this event was simply a part of nature and
it would be wrong to interfere. Therefore, however tragic, the bird's
nest would be ignored.

4. A Taoist would most likely disapprove of hunting regulations in
today's society. The unnecessary violence of killing just for the sake
of killing as opposed to natural death or killing for survival would
be against the principle of wu wei. Today's hunting regulations are
very loose, allowing all sorts of hunting to occur for a variety of
different reasons. I imagine a Taoist would want those regulations to
be nearly non-existent, declaring hunting to be unnatural and wrong.
Killing an animal by use of force would be a type of struggle against
the future of the universe.

5. Confucianism is focused mainly on the need for social order. A
major disadvantage of this is that there is a strict hierarchy
established through the Confucianism beliefs. If you are stuck on the
lower end of a hierarchical relationship, it is difficult to get out,
and frowned upon to disobey. This is very bad for women in society who
were kept beneath men through extreme measures like feet-binding. One
advantage of Confucianism was the idea of family unity. Ancestors were
worshipped, keeping many different clans connected for generations.
Taoism, on the other hand, was not concerned with societal matters.
This philosophy focused on the relationship between the individual and
the universe. An advantage of this is that Taoism gives its followers
the right to investigate their universe, which lead to many advances
in the sciences and some of the best classification of the era. A
disadvantage might be that Taoists would not be inclined to advance in
an industrial sense because that would interfere too much with nature.
That is why many of their advances are in natural science and
medicine.

6. Taoism let people believe that they were greater than the larger
societal picture, and should explore themselves and the natural world
before exploring their role in the hierarchy of society. This was
probably empowering for some individuals who otherwise would have been
trapped at the bottom of the hierarchy according to Confucianism.
Taoism might be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy because it
was encouraging of nonconformity. Nonconformity leads to disorder and
lack of political unity, somewhat undermining the greater political
power. If many people were practicing Taoism, the establishment could
have been significantly weakened.

[dalton morris]

1. The Tao can not be given a name because it represents the whole
universe and everything that unites everyone into one. Because it
represents something so abstract and infinite it cannot be given a
name. People that pursue the Tao are people that try to become one
with the universe and nature. Also, they often reject social order and
classes and focus on there own being and connecting with the universe

2. I would describe Wu Wei as "going with the flow" or "easy going".
It basically means that the individual is not trying to go against the
forces of nature and is letting the universe guide him along his
destine path.

3. If a birds nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would not put it back
in the tree because that would interfere with nature's "plan." Nature
made the nest fall out of the tree and so that is how it must be. If
the Taoist interfered, he would be going against everything he
believes.

4. I think that Taoists would not be happy with the current hunting
regulations. Although the regulations are meant to stop hunting in
certain situations, they still allow animals to killed for sport;
going against nature's will. Killing an animal, especially if your
doing it strictly for sport, would disrupt natures plan. Therefore,
the Tao's would not be happy.

5. Confucianism and Taoism differ in that Confucianism focuses on the
relationships between individuals and society. Confucianism does not
focus on the inner serenity like Taoism does. There are advantages and
disadvantages to both of these beliefs. First, with Confucianism, a
society of Confucianists will probably be a strong society because
that is what Confucianism teaches. While the society may be strong,
the individuals in the society may not be as strong individually. In a
Taoist society, the people individually may be at peace and at one
with all their surroundings, but the community and relationships with
others may not be as strong.

6. Ordinary Chinese people could have been swept up by this movement.
It could have been inspiration to the people to become more at peace
with there environment and to remove themselves from the relationships
with the social order. I believe it can be seen as an anti-
establishment philosophy because it could have made people weaken
their relationships with the social order and the government.

On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:
> 1.  Why doesn't Lao-tzu want to give the Tao a name?  What are some
> illustrations of the Tao?
> 2.  Briefly describe in your own words the concept of wu wei.
> 3.  If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, would a Taoist put it back
> or
> ignore it?  Explain your answer.
> 4.  How would a Taoist view hunting regulations in today's society?
> 5.  How do Confucianism and Taoism differ?  Provide some advantages
> and disadvantages of each outlook.
> 6. How might Taoism have affected ordinary people in China?  Can it

> be
> seen as an anti-establishment philosophy?
>
> Due Friday

[Hannah]

1)One of forces of nature that I observed was a piece of dandelion
fuzz blowing in the wind. This is in harmony with nature because the
dandelion, a naturally occuring organism, was being carried away by
the wind, one of the main elements of nature. Dandelions are meant to
be easily blown away because that is how their seeds are spread.
Humans can comform to this force of nature by not trying to catch the
dandelion fluff or alter its course, as that will change the force of
nature and go against what was naturally occuring.

2)Another force of nature I observed were leaves that were eaten by
some sort of creature, presumably bugs. This is in harmony with nature
because the natural way for organisms to live is to get energy from
other organisms, so in this case the bugs were naturally getting
energy from the leaves of the plant. Humans can conform to this force
of nature by letting the bugs eat the plants instead of putting
pesticides on plants to kill bugs so that they cannot eat the plants,
which goes against what naturally occurs.

3)The third force of nature that I observed was a flower growing in
the middle of the field. This is in harmony with nature because the
flower is growing where its seed was taken by the wind, and not where
humans planted it intentionally (like in flower beds). Humans can
conform to this force of nature by letting the flower grow in the
middle of the field instead of picking it or spreading weed-killing
chemicals on the field so that only grass will grow, killing the
flower.

On May 19, 10:16 am, Hannah <h2fireb...@comcast.net> wrote:
> 1) The Tao was not given a name because it represents the universe, or
> the eternal, infinite force that makes all of nature one. Since it
> represents something infinite and is present in everything, it cannot
> be given a finite name. Taoists who wanted to be unified with the Tao
> wanted to be in harmony with the entire universe, and would reject the
> strict social order in order to achieve higher enlightenment in the
> world of imagination, exploration, and the physical and mental aspects
> of the universe. Taoists believed that all actions and thoughts should
> be spontaneous instead of premeditated thoughts and actions.
>
> 2) Wu Wei is letting the forces of the universe guide one instead of
> trying to carve one's own path, basically "going with the flow". This
> particularly refers to the forces of nature, and how one's actions
> should be harmonious with the forces of nature.
>
> 3) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, a Taoist would most likely
> leave it where it is because that was what had happened due to
> nature's forces, and putting it back would go against nature's way.
>
> 4) A Taoist would  probably not view today's hunting regulations
> favorably for two reasons. First of all, hunting for the sake of
> hunting and not for the sake of feeding oneself or one's family is
> unnatural, and is not harmonious with nature's way. Second of all, if
> people were hunting in order to feed their family, regulating their
> hunting would go against nature's way since capturing food is natural,
> which would also not be harmonious with nature.
>
> 5) Taoism is all about being harmonious with nature and acting
> spontaneously, whereas Confucianism is quite the opposite.
> Confucianism is all about conforming to society and dealt with social
> matters such as government and morals, whereas Taoism focused more on
> the individual and nonconformity. Confucianism is good for developing
> relationships among people, but did not address the individual's
> relationship with themself or nature. Taoism addresses the
> individual;s relationship with nature and themself, but does not
> address relationships among people.
>
> 6) Taoism might have affected the people of China by teaching them to
> focus more on themselves and what they personally believe, rather than
> conforming to what others around them believe. It can be seen by an
> anti-establishment philosophy because it teaches people to resist the
> government's rules and ignore the rules of society.

>
> On May 18, 9:02 am, "Mr. J." <glen.jaskelew...@rtsd.org> wrote:
>
>
>
> > 1.  Why doesn't Lao-tzu want to give the Tao a name?  What are some
> > illustrations of the Tao?
> > 2.  Briefly describe in your own words the concept of wu wei.
> > 3.  If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, would a Taoist put it back
> > or
> > ignore it?  Explain your answer.
> > 4.  How would a Taoist view hunting regulations in today's society?
> > 5.  How do Confucianism and Taoism differ?  Provide some advantages
> > and disadvantages of each outlook.
> > 6. How might Taoism have affected ordinary people in China?  Can it
> > be
> > seen as an anti-establishment philosophy?
>

> > Due Friday- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -

[Emily Lu]

1.The first observation of nature I made was the tree and its roots.
Tree roots are the basis of any tree; they are interconnected to
ensure stability, and they provide nourishment for the tree. They
function as claws that dig into the ground, keeping the tree grounded
and strong. The roots depend on the simplest source - water - and yet
the tree grows to be so strong and firm. Although it may sway in the
wind, its roots keep it from toppling over. It gives back to nature by
releasing oxygen, a necessity of life for many organisms. Instead of
cutting down these trees, we should build around them, using their
strength for our protection. We should learn from them: they use only
the simplest means for life, and they stay true to their roots
although they don't struggle against the wind. Similarly, we should
have only value the necessities and ignore extraneous things such as
status and pay. If these things are meaningless to us, we will truly
be steady and conformist at the same time, for we cannot be shaken:
how can we be robbed if money is not of importance, and how can we
lose our high position if status is unnecessary?

2. The second force of nature I witnessed was clay. Clay is made up of
the simple, natural substances of soil and water. It is soft and mold-
able, but once it is kneaded into the proper position, it holds its
shape. Its uses are limitless, for it has nothing to restrain it, and
it can conform to any shape. We can use excess clay on the side of the
streams to build cups and bowls for ourselves, but we should not tear
up the earth in search of clay. Clay has many qualities that can be
imbibed into our characters. Similar to clay, we should have no
restrictions or attachments so that we are able to be molded into many
shapes. Once we try a variety of things, we can learn of our own
ignorance, and allow the Tao to be recognized.

3. The third force of nature I observed was the sun. The sun provides
warmth and light, and is (along with water), the basis of life and
energy. It is always present, but is never considered eternal, for
Taoists do not believe in eternity. Focusing on eternity would ruin
our internal composure and concentration. Instead, we should pay
attention to the day by day changes. For example, we often bathe in
the warmth of the sun, but at other times, we experience moments of
extreme drought or dryness. If we focus on the constant changes and
surprises, we are never static and we can learn to adjust to become
one with the Tao.

[Christine]

1.
One force of nature that I observed as I was outside was the moss that
grew on the ground and trees. Moss grows by turning sunlight into food
through the process of photosynthesis and through absorption of water;
it does not absorb nutrients through other plants, thus, moss is not
parasitic. In nature, moss is able to cultivate life without the
influence of other plants. Humans, too, should depend solely on their
own belief and the higher sources of life, just as moss lives using
nature's higher sources of life like sun and water. One should not be
influenced by other people and things, just as moss depends on solely
itself to grow. Furthermore, humans should strive to be separated from
the ignorance of human nature and become one with Tao.

2.
The second force of nature that I observed as I was outside were the
leaves that were drifting in the stream. These leaves flowed in the
stream, following the natural and inevitable course of the water. Yet,
when the leaves approached the bank, they would stay stuck to the
ground, as the water continued to flow past them. Just like these
leaves, humans should too allow themselves to be one with the flow of
life, allowing the path of the universe to take its course. And so
just like the leaves, when they are no longer part of the main stream,
humans should as well, accept the time when they are no longer a part
of the main course of life. Instead, it may be time for them to enter
a new stage in their lives. Humans should yearn to be part of nature-
to be one with Tao and thus, one should also tolerate the different
routes that life takes them.

3.
The final force of nature that I observed as I stood outside was the
flowers that grew by the stream bank. Hidden beneath all of the fallen
tree branches and limping plants, were little white, pink, and blue
flowers. These flowers followed the natural course of nature, because
they were able to grow, not only in an open field or among other
flowers as expected, but in the grime and dirt of a river bank. Like
these flowers, humans should learn to adapt to surroundings- to be
able to adjust to whatever comes their way. One should strive to
become greater than their surroundings- to stand out and leave a long
lasting effect, to live to be cooperative with nature and attempt to
find the true meaning and beauty of life.

[kevin]

1. The first force of nature that I observed was the sun. The sun
gives light and heat to the earth and the plants and animals living on
it. The sun is in harmony with nature by being the source of all life
on earth. Without the sun, there would be no nature to be in harmony
with. However, the sun is also slowly running down. When the sun runs
out of energy, it will die, and it will cease to nourish life on
earth. This represents the inevitability of life. The taoist should
learn to accept whatever circumstances are given to them, and strive
for seeing the deeper meaning behind each individual action. The true
taoist recognizes that some things cannot be stopped, and appreciates
each moment for its own value. This appreciation is an important step
in becoming one with nature.

2. The second force of nature that I observed was a spiderweb that was
spun over the river. This spiderweb is in harmony with nature because
it is at once both part of the river, and removed from it. The
spiderweb is physically attached to the plants in the river, and so if
the plants were to be removed, the spiderweb would be destroyed. At
the same time, the spiderweb is not affected by the current and flow
of the river. The spiderweb is spun to high to be caught into the
river's water. The taoist should become like the spiderweb in that
they can observe life without being pulled too far in to control their
own destiny. By removing themselves from the worries and concerns of
life, the true taoist can become one with the tao.

3. The last force of nature that I observed was a young deer running
across one of the fields. The deer was in harmony with nature because
it had learned to adapt to its changing surroundings. Even though the
deer was surrounded by man-made buildings and cars, it had learned to
survive in an alien environment. The deer was probably frightened of
the strange objects surrounding it, but it survived, most likely by
feeding on peoples' yards. The taoist can take example from the deer
and learn to adapt to change. By learning to accept changes around
them and by coming to terms with nature, the taoist can become one
with nature and find peace within themselves.

[Sarah]

1. I observed water flowing around and over rocks in the stream. I
believe this shows the Tao because on one hand, some larger rocks are
able to divert the force of the water and therefore play a role in
nature. However, since the water can so easily flow around them and
over the smaller ones, they are not disrupting nature but merely
playing their part in it. This shows how humans can change things in
nature (i.e. cutting down a tree for firewood) as long as they do not
do it too drastically (i.e. cutting down entire rainforests). Nature
is able to work with small changes, it is only the large and
unharmonious ones which cause problems.

2. I observed one large tree shading the entire width of the stream. I
believe this shows harmony because the tree's role is to shade the
stream so that fish and other animals and plants can live there, and
so a larger tree naturally must shade a larger part of the stream. I
believe that humans should play a similar role in nature. The larger
our population, and the more technologically advanced it becomes, the
greater role we should play in helping the other plants and animals of
our earth and giving back to the soil, forests, streams, and so on.

3. I saw deer prints in the mud, which I believe shows harmony in
nature because the deer can do very little and still have a lasting
impact, but on the other hand, the prints can quickly be destroyed
away by rain, other prints on top of them, or the mud hardening into
dry ground. So while the deer are playing their part in nature, they,
like the rocks in the stream, do not change things too drastically or
play too big of a role. Similarly, humans need to remember that we
leave a mark when we are not around, and that our impact is clearly
seen even when we have since gone somewhere else. However, we also
need to remember that our contributions to nature can be shown to be
in harmony with nature if natural forces, such as the rain or the mud
hardening, can drive them away. This is what we should strive for: to
leave an impact when we leave, but one which nature itself can control
and wash away.

[Allie Ziegler]

Taoism Nature Observations

1. While walking through nature, I observed water flowing around the
rocks in a stream. The water was in harmony with nature because it
conformed to it's surroundings and avoided all of the barriers placed
in it's way. The water avoided the rocks of all sizes and managed to
maneuver its path around and away from the rocky shoreline. According
to Wu Wei in order for humans to merge with the Tao they should
conform to the ways of nature rather than oppressing it. Water flowing
around rocks in a stream is a great example of Wu Wei. I believe that
humans should conform to their surroundings and accept and conquer
obstacles that nature throws in it's course. The water represents a
human's life and the rocks represent obstacles and challenges. The
stream itself represents life's natural course and in order for a
person to remain on that course, they must work to deal with life's
natural obstacles and continue on their way.

2. A second example of Taoism in nature is leaves drifting down a
stream. The leaves were in harmony with nature because they were being
carried by the stream (nature) down a natural path. The leaves
drifting down a stream represents progression and life's natural
course of action. Humans should conform to nature, just as the leaves
conformed to the path of the stream. Human's should allow themselves
to be carried by the natural path of nature, which will inevitably
lead to progress and becoming one with nature (Tao).

3. While observing nature I also saw a thick branch growing out of the
side of the bank, on a great angle, which spanned to the other side of
the bank. On this branch were flowers and plant life, naturally
growing despite the unusual circumstances of the branch's location.
The branch formed a natural make-shift bridge which provided access to
the other side of the stream. The plant life was in harmony with
nature because it conformed to the position of the tree branch over
the water, and continued to grow beautiful flowers nonetheless. The
branch was also in harmony with nature because it conformed to the
fall, or misplacement of the tree, and grew its roots out of the side
of the bank, making a home where one could be found. Human's can learn
from this example because we should conform to any situation that life
places upon us. If we are forced to move, or to relocate, we must
conform just as the branch and the plants did. Additionally, this
branch formed a natural path to the other side of the stream. We
should follow the natural path (the branch), rather than the man-made
structures in order to become one with the Tao.

[Joelle Khouri]

1. One thing I noticed was some little wild strawberries growing. The
strawberries are in harmony with nature because they can provide food
for creatures. One can conform to this by going with the flow,
allowing whatever is happening to happen: a Taoist should be aware
that there may come a time when one’s use is to help others, perhaps
at one’s own expense, just as the wild strawberries provide sustenance
for others.

2. Another thing I noticed was a breeze blowing. Wind can be strong
enough to uproot trees and knock people over, but it can also provide
a much needed respite from the heat or move things such as seeds
across the world. One can conform to this by going where he/she
desires and by influencing (this could mean hurting or helping) others
in one’s path. Wind can be violent or it can be gentle; likewise, one
must know when to be each of these.

3. There was also a bee on a flower. Although many people consider
bees a nuisance because they sting, bees are very harmonious with
nature because they make honey. Bees eat this honey and use it to
survive the winter. Bees also pollinate flowers and plants, which
allows more to grow. Furthermore, bees live in communities, and depend
on other bees to survive. One can be like a bee by using his/her
personal skills to create something that can be helpful (in the bees’
case, honey). Also, like bees, we should try to make sure that through
our actions, we are also helping others (like pollination).
Furthermore, although one’s independence should be valued, sometimes
being a part of a community is beneficial and necessary for survival.


On May 19, 4:14 pm, Joelle Khouri <jnkho...@gmail.com> wrote:
> 1.  Lao-tzu believed that the Tao cannot be named because it is an
> eternal and everlasting force, much too large and complicated for man
> to define. The Tao is present in everything; it is impossible to
> pinpoint specifically. To identify with the Tao, one must be in
> harmony with nature and even the entire universe. One should be
> natural and spontaneous, free to imagine and explore. In this way, the
> Tao can be found.
>
> 2. Wu wei is the concept of acting in harmony with nature. This means
> that one should follow the forces of nature rather than struggle
> against them. The example the packet uses, which I think helps in
> understanding the concept, is water. Water will take the form of
> whatever surrounds it. A single drop is weak, yet water can carve away
> stone. Applying this to humans, wu wei means that man should be
> flexible, should conform to nature, and should break free from the
> bonds of society and order.
>
> 3. I believe that a Taoist would observe the bird’s nest, but
> ultimately let it be, because they believe in harmony with nature and
> would not want to change what happens naturally (i.e. the bird’s nest
> falling).
>
> 4. I think that Taoists would mostly agree with hunting regulations.
> Since they believe in living in harmony with nature, they would not
> agree with hunting for sport and would be glad for regulations that
> maintain the natural state of the world.
>
> 5. Confucianism is concerned with people and their place in society
> and government while Taoism is more about people and the universe.
> Confucianism focuses on conformity and Taoism embraces for imagination
> and individuality. Confucianism is good for the whole, for the
> government and overall society but no for the self. Taoism, on the
> other hand, is pretty much the opposite. These philosophies seem to be
> at different extremes, but, as our packet says they are not mutually
> exclusive.
>
> 6. Taoism might have affected ordinary people in China by giving them
> another view besides that of the government. Taoism can definitely be
> seen as an anti-establishment philosophy. Our packet explains that
> Taoists rejected the need for social order. Therefore, Taoism is
> against structured things, such as the government or establishment.
> Taoism embraced individuality and nonconformity and rejected the need
> for social order. From these traits, it is easy to see how Taoism in
> China could have pushed ordinary people away from the government.

[Alison Mosier-Mills]

Taoism Nature Observation

1. As we began our nature walk, I observed a delicate spider’s web
spanning from bank-to-bank of the creek. Due to the web’s clear color,
it was only visible when the sun shined on the glimmering spider’s
silk; when this happened, one could see a beautifully intricate design
-- the pattern to which only a spider knows -- that rather
paradoxically served as an early grave for the many unfortunate small
insects whose business happened to send them past the web that day.
The spider scaled the web carefully, eagerly approaching its prey,
balanced seemingly impossibly on the flimsy web. This phenomenon
represented many literal and metaphorical aspects of harmony in
nature. For example, the spider weaves its own shelter in a certain
pattern that it instinctively knows how to build. This represents
nature’s intuitive knack for survival, as the spider does not rely on
external sources of aid as it catches its prey; instead, it uses only
the silk that it can produce itself. The web is balanced precariously
between the two banks of the creek, exposed to all other elements of
nature, and protected only by the strength of the knots that the
spider has woven. The web also depicts the predator-prey relationship
that is essential in nature. From a human standpoint, this example
shows us that relying on instinct can be helpful, and that we should
protect ourselves with only the tools that have been given; while we
may be exposed to bad circumstances and harmful events, we are still

acting in harmony with nature.

2. Another aspect of nature that we observed was the creek itself. It
was contained between two relatively steep banks and littered with
rocks, branches, minnows, algae and many other forms of life. The pace
of the stream changed with the wind, and at several points, different
tributaries converged and the result was at first a struggle to decide
where the water could go, but eventually formed one large creek. This
event is in accordance with nature because the water does not have a
life force that makes it move; instead, it is controlled by the wind.
As the flowing water passes the debris scattered throughout the creek,
the water does not attempt to destroy everything in its path; instead,
it may carry some of the small items that are too light to resist its
power, but it also lazily flows by and allows time to erode the rocks.
As a human, we can use this example to show that if we want to align
ourselves with nature, then we must allow the forces of the universe
to carry us throughout life. We must understand that as we confront
other “streams” from different “tributaries”, or people of other
countries, cultures, or backgrounds, there will be tension at first
but we must learn to walk together. As we travel, there will be some
pieces of nature that we will naturally pick up, like the small bits
of debris that are carried by the stream, but we must not do this
intentionally.

3. A last item that we observed on our nature walk was the unseen by
very powerful force of wind. The wind acted in accordance with nature
as it dictated the speed of the steam, rustled the grass, and blew the
trees from side to side. However, when we saw a huge tree that had
been ripped from the earth and had collapsed, it was evident that wind
can be a destructive force as well. To humans, wind shows that
invisible, yet extremely powerful, forces truly govern many aspects of
our lives. Sometimes they are more prominent than other times, and the
physical manifestations of their power (such as a tree ripped from the
earth) are more dramatic. However, they are most definitely ever-
present. In order to act in with nature, we must not resist these
powers.


On May 19, 10:45 am, Alison Mosier-Mills <alipro1...@gmail.com> wrote:
> 1. Lao-tzu taught people that because the Tao was present in
> everything in the world, it could not be “named or defined”. Instead
> of seeking to understand the Tao as a physical object or being, they
> sought to be in harmony with the entire universe. In order to achieve
> this, they rejected the social order and focused more on imagination,
> exploration and poetry. Illustrations of the Tao are mainly ideas, and
> they depict an “eternal, everlasting and unchanging life force”.
>
> 2. “Wu wei” an idea that says that one should act in “harmony with
> nature”. Basically, one should not interfere with the overriding force
> of the universe; in order to live a good life, one must act WITH
> nature, not against it. Although the packet cited water as an example
> of wu wei, I believe that many things in nature can also be used to
> help define it. For example, the growth of a plant is dependent on the
> changing course of nature. The plant does not resist the elements;
> instead, it must adapt in harmony with nature in order to survive.
>
> 3. I don’t think that a Taoist would pick up a bird’s nest that had
> fallen from a tree. Taoists should not “attempt to struggle against
> the forces of the universe, but rather to follow them”. If a Taoist is
> truly following the concept of wu wei, which dictates that they must
> remain in harmony with nature, then by picking up the nest, they are
> actually interfering with the natural order.
>
> 4. I believe that Taoists would be pleased with the hunting
> regulations in today’s society. According to Taoism, hunting is
> interfering with the natural world because a man is deciding the fate
> of an animal, as opposed to the Tao, or universal force. Hunting
> regulations attempt to put a stop to this by preventing man from
> interrupting the order of nature, and therefore a Tao would be happy
> to see these laws put into place.
>
> 5. Confucianism and Taoism essentially differ in that while
> Confucianism is focused primarily on the development of a successful
> and moral society and emphasizes conformity, Taoism centers more on
> the relationships amongst individuals and the universe, and stresses
> the importance of the imagination. In my opinion, the advantages of
> one religion may also be the disadvantages of the other. For example,
> Confucianism centers along unity and conformity. For this reason, the
> society might be successful, but the individuals may not have strong
> “inner lives”, and may not have a good concept of the world outside
> their immediate society. Conversely, in Taoism, the individual’s
> relation with nature and the universe is of the utmost importance.
> While this means that followers of Taoism could have deep faith and a
> good sense of themselves in nature, there is a lack of unity between
> the individuals, and therefore the society might not be as strong.
>
> 6. I agree that Taoism could be seen as anti-establishment because it
> focuses on the individual in nature rather than in a society. This
> could have posed problems for the Chinese government because Taoism’s
> eccentricity would have liberated people from the material world,
> strengthened their imaginations, and actually emphasized
> nonconformity. If ordinary people followed Taoism, they might fail to
> listen to the government because they are more focused on their own
> spirituality instead of on following the laws of the nation and
> creating a stable and successful society. Ordinary citizens who did
> NOT follow Taoism might find a lack of unity and note that there was a
> resistance to the social structure that they had tried to build.

[Emerson Congleton]

Taoism Nature Observation
1) I saw a part of the river where the dirt and ground had been washed
away by the water and the roots of the tree were standing naked in the
water. This particular instance where water shapes an aspect of the
outdoors is in harmony with nature. Water is needed for animals to
drink from and the roots of the tree in the stream provides a unique
place for aquatic life to flourish. While the stream may have
destroyed part of the bank and done damage to the tree it gave the
tree roots more direct access to the water at the same time. From a
human standpoint this event would be inconsequential or at the most it
would me a slight inconvenience in the fact that part of the ground is
no longer there and taking a walk next to the stream might become
rather difficult. This specific way of nature should be observed and
conformed to because it shows the dexterity of water and the tree.
Before the ground fell away the water and the tree/ground had specific
boundaries and after the ground fell away the tree and water still had
boundaries but they had been changed, and even though they were
changed it did not affect the overall function or manner of living of
either.
2) While I was trying to navigate along the side of the stream I saw a
layer of dead leaves below several live plants. This is a very good
example of the cycle of death and birth, how the dead plants and the
dead leaves provide nutrients for the growing plants to thrive off of.
Each year a new layer of dead leaves are added to the ground beneath
the plants yet as they decompose they create enough available space
for life. In this cycle there is little or no waste. From a human
standpoint the dead leaves can be seen as unnecessary clutter and
something unattractive that needs to be removed. There are somethings
in life that serve no purpose after a certain point however many
things can still be useful after there initial purpose is worn out.
3) A tire in the stream was one very interesting thing that I saw. The
tire was on the side of the bank of the stream, it was partially
submerged with a rounded half still sticking out of the water. This
harmony with nature is a bit more difficult to describe, the tire
could provide shelter for some of the inhabitants of the stream and
represent a secluded/sheltered space where an animal would be safe
from predators, water can still flow around and through the tire with
out having to change too much of it's course. The tire is seen as
useful from a human standpoint for the tire was located in part of the
stream where it was more difficult to cross and it was the perfect
stepping stone to get over the stream. While the tire may still be
ugly it has several useful aspects, many things in life can be
unattractive or undesirable yet their effects are noticeably useful.

[Becky Maz]

1.) On Friday, when our class went outside, I noticed certain aspects
of nature that seemed to hold true to the concepts of Taoism and Wu
Wei. The first thing that I noticed was the water in the stream.
Water, first of all, goes wherever the current of a stream/creek takes
it. It is constantly flowing, and never stopping at one specific spot
in the stream. Also, it flows over and around any obstacles that are
in its way such as rocks, plants, and occasionally fish. This shows a
constant state of moving on, no matter what happens in life. Because
water also conforms to its surroundings, for example when it is in a
lake rather than a stream, we can see that, rather than just moving on
from events, it also, in certain cases conforms to its environment and
accepts its place in the world.

2.) Another part of nature that I observed on Friday was a leaf. I
think that leaves properly demonstrate the concept of Wu Wei because
they go through a life cycle without trying to slow that cycle down.
When a tree sprouts a leaf, it is born. As it grows, the leaf changes
colors and becomes beautiful. Later, the leaf falls off the tree, and
turns brown and begins to crinkle and eventually become one again with
the Earth as it disintegrates into the ground. This shows that natural
things do not tend to fight nature, rather, they choose to become one
with it.

3.)The last thing that I saw on the class adventure on Friday was a
rock. Rocks are the complete opposite of Taoism because they are
obstacles for many things in nature. They often refuse to move unless
something attempts to move them. Also, rocks are very still and
stubborn. I suppose this could be analogous to a form of meditation,
but that would be a stretch. To me it seems that they are just lazy,
and rather than experiencing the Earth, they just sit staring at it
forever because rocks are never actually born, and they never die,
they just take different forms over time.

[Claire]

Taoism Nature Observation

1. One force of nature I witnessed was a slight breeze blowing across
the field. Wind can be both a powerful and destructive force of
nature, causing such damage as seen in the aftermath of hurricanes.
However a gentle wind can also be helpful to organisms by cooling them
off. It can furthermore aid in seed dispersal, helping some organisms
reproduce and therefore acting in harmony with nature by helping
nature regenerate itself. Like wind, humans can either be destructive
or helpful with their actions; Taoists must use wind as an example by
which they should conduct themselves. The destructive consequences of
acting too harshly can be seen in a hurricane; Taoists must learn to
find a balance and act gently for the benefit of others.

2. Another force of nature I observed was a fallen tree decomposing in
the woods. As the tree decomposes, it releases all its nutrients back
into the earth, so that other forces may use them. The breakdown of
the tree represented one giving back to the earth that provided him
with life. The natural course of life eventually leads to death, and a
Taoist should view death as a force that repays nature for all that it
has given to him during life. Taoists should embrace death, as it is
the universe's natural way to gain back what it spent on you; Taoists
should go with the flow that the universe intended. They must die to
release their resources back into the environment.

3. One more force of nature that I observed was a tree hollow that
housed some sort of animal, either a bird or a squirrel. The tree had
been damaged, but the damaged portion served a useful purpose for
another organism. This situation represented how even negative things
in the universe happen for a reason, and how something positive may
even arise from the negative. A Taoist may interpret this as the fact
that when one experiences something negative, it was a purposeful
doing of the universe, and that one must go with it because the hurt
that you experience may facilitate something better to come. The
universe slated the tree to be damaged so that an animal may make its
home in the hollow; Taoists must deal with whatever hurt the universe
bestows upon them, as the negative experience will serve a purpose
sooner or later.

[Irina Ahn]

1. one force of nature i witnessed were the roots of a tree running
into the stream. The tree finds its nutrients in one of the most
abundant and simple sources, water. Its roots are supplied with an
unending amount of water by growing in the water. The water provides
for us in the process. The roots use the water to help the tree grow
and the tree will use the nutrients and create oxygen for us humans.
Without this water providing for the tree, then our supply of our most
necessary resource would be decreased.
2. Another part of nature i witnessed was a feather falling onto the
grass and being taken away by another bird. Some would say it was
insignificant, but that feather was useful to the bird it came from
during the winter to keep warm. And as it becomes warmer it is shed
off too help the bird stay cool. But in exchange, that feather is used
for a bigger purpose. to use as part of the nest of another to keep
the eggs safe and warm. and then the chicks will grow up with their
own feathers starting the cycle over again.
3. The final force of nature that i discovered was a lot of geese
poop. Geese eat grass and many plants to get nutrients and food. But
then when it poops the poop is used as fertilizer for the plants
growing again and as food for some bugs. and it starts the cycle over
again. it seems insignificant and gross at first glance, but in the
views of taoism, it is an essential and nonaccidental part of natures
many cycles.

[Preeya D&#39;mello]

Taoism Nature Observation:

1. One force of nature that I observed was a tree with its roots
showing above ground. Although the wind was able to blow some of the
leaves around, and shake the top most branches of the tree, the tree’s
roots kept the tree firmly planted on the ground. It was in harmony
with nature because it peacefully interacted with the wind, but it
also connected with the ground. It also provided a home for birds, and
food for the bugs that eat leaves. I think humans can learn from the
tree and understand that even though their personalities can be
altered by outside forces (like the wind), they must always stay true
and hold firmly onto their family and their community. This is because
our family and our community make up our foundation and they support
us.

2. Another force of nature that I observed was a vine on a tree. The
vine snaked far up the tree, fitting itself into many nooks and
crannies on the tree. It was in harmony with nature because it used
the nutrients from the ground to grow, and it was also able to conform
itself around parts of nature (like the tree). I think humans can use
this vine as an example. True Taoists should be able to use nutrients
from nature without destroying it. Also Taoists should be able to grow
and fit together compatibly with nature, rather than pushing it out of
the way for selfish reasons.

3. The third force of nature that I observed was a fallen leaf. The
leaf had been clinging onto a branch on a tree and was pulled off by
the wind. It was in harmony with nature because it had been thriving
in nature, and using nature’s resources to grow. When its time came,
the leaf did not fight the wind, and it accepted its falling from the
tree. I believe that humans should be like this leaf and accept death.
When their time comes, humans should not try to fight the force that
is pulling them away from life.

[Yuichiro Iwamoto]

1. There are flowers that grow on shrubs that possess a sweet aroma.
This is in harmony with nature because with the sweet aroma, it can
successfully attract pollinators such as bees and humming birds to
come to the flower, where pollen can rub off on their bodies to be
carried to another flower of its species with the same scent. This
way, the plant can mate with its species in a more successful way then
letting pollen be carried by wind. Humans do not need aroma or
carriers to successfully mate. We are capable of moving and finding
mates on our own. However, smell to a flower maybe similar to things
such as looks or the way we dress that draws attention from people.

2. Another observation was a school of minnows that swam together in
shady parts of the stream. This is in harmony with nature because by
forming a school, minnows gain better protection from predators such
as bigger fish. If a minnow is swimming alone, the predator will go
after that one fish and the survival chance of that one minnow is very
low. However, in a school there are numerous minnows, so a predator
cannot single one out, thus increasing the survival chance of
individual minnows. If one minnow was eaten, it served as a divergence
for the rest of the school to run away and reproduce, thus
contributing to the reproductive success of the species as a whole.
Humans have lost this altruistic behavior because most people act in
the sole interest of themselves rather than the human race as a whole.
Another difference between minnows and humans are that humans do not
have visible "predators" that threaten their existence. However,
humans are still very social and like to group together.
(organization, city, government, country)

3. The final observation was that of a seed that seemed to fly in the
air. It had wing like leaves that spun around like a propeller
carrying the seed far far away. This is in harmony with nature because
it carries the offspring of a plant into new soil where a new plant
grows. If the seed doesn't reach a good substrate, it will not
successfully sprout and degrades over time to be recycled by the
forces of nature. Humans cannot fly like these seeds but yet we still
proliferate, migrating to suitable living areas drifting away from
parents. We, like every other organism spread around and colonized
this planet bit by bit.

On May 19, 8:09 pm, Yuichiro Iwamoto <yuyu...@gmail.com> wrote:
> 1. Lao-tzu does not want to give the Tao a name, because it simply
> means the eternal universal "way". He thought that because the term
> Tao encompassed so many things, it did not have a definite form and
> thus could not have a definite name. Tao is often associated with
> water because water conforms to nature, but through conforming, it
> leaves a mark in even the biggest of terrains such as mountains. This
> seemingly paradoxical nature of water is often compared to Tao itself.
> 2. Wu wei basically means to follow all of nature's rules, but at the
> same time not let the mind become polluted with man-made customs and
> norms. The rules of the universe unlike that of society are permanent,
> and one should not try to resist it.
> 3. A Taoist would not put back the bird if the bird had fell out of
> the nest on its own or through natural forces. In that case, it was
> destiny that had pushed the bird out. Putting the bird back in the
> nest would only result in tempering with the order of nature and only
> cause disruption. Even if the bird was pushed over by a human, a human
> is still an animal, so relocating the bird in the nest would mean
> tampering with fate.
> 4. I think that Taoists would welcome hunting regulations, because the
> whole reason why there needs to be hunting regulations is because
> human society has caused devastating damage to the animals of the
> world. Through regulation, a Taoist would feel as though the balance
> of nature is being restored through the preservation of biodiversity.
> Although one could argue that hunting is a natural part of life for
> man, in current day society people hunt not for survival but rather
> for amusement which greatly contradicts the rules of nature. No law of
> nature could justify killing an animal for amusement. Only the
> struggle for survival should produce such outcomes.
> 5. Confucianism looks at the society as a whole and Taoism focuses on
> the individual pursuing the faith. Some advantages to Confucianism is
> the preservation of social order (at least in theory) and the
> establishment of a strong benevolent government. Through virtues such
> as Filial piety and altruism, mutual relationships can be assured and
> will likely lead to happiness. A disadvantage of Confucianism is that
> it completely ignores the needs of an individual. It does not consider
> man's curious nature to question order around him such as the "golden
> rule". Because of this, Confucianism will probably not be able to
> advance at the same rate as Taoism. Taoism's advantage is that it
> promotes research and questioning. A man is welcomed to observe nature
> and find ways to merge with the Tao. Through this mind set, many
> technological advancements have been made by scholars of this faith.
> However, Taoism strongly discourages conforming to any rules of
> society which prevent the formation of government or any form of
> organization to oversee the people.
> 6. Taoism would probably have effected the people of China very
> negatively (from the government's perspective) because it causes
> people to question the norm. It strongly discourages conforming to
> society, thus changing the Chinese government system where the good of
> the country is the priority. Because of this, people would probably
> not be as obedient to the government, resulting in more protests and
> strikes. Because of this, I believe Taoism could be seen as an anti-
> establishment philosophy.

[Lindsay Korzekwa]

1) The first force of nature I observed was a tree missing half of its
trunk. This was most likely due to an animal, such as a deer, eating
it. I was amazed that the tree still looked healthy, and that it was
evidently able to thrive despite its difficulty. This tree was in
harmony with nature, as it was able to continue growing using what
remained. Humans should follow the example of this tree, and go on
with life even when one encounters difficulties. Rather than giving
up, accept that hardships are just a part of life, and something to
work through.

2) The second force of nature I observed were several trees growing
out of the edge of the creek. Even though their normal environment is
dry land, they were still able to thrive in difficult conditions.
Although they were outside of their natural habitats, they were not
disrupting the life in the water, and even providing it shade. For
these reasons, the trees were living in harmony with nature. Humans
can also strive to succeed in difficult conditions, and provide a
source of change to a normally uniform environment. However, it is
important to not disrupt those already in the same situations, and to
try to give back what one takes.

3) The third force of nature I observed was a ladybug and an ant on a
small leaf. They were existing together peacefully, even though they
belong to different species, and even sharing resources. These insects
were living in harmony with nature because they were able to coexist
harmoniously, even in a small area. Humans should recognize what the
ant and ladybug showed us: that no matter how great the differences
are between two living beings, it is still possible to live in peace.
One must accept that differences are part of life, and never judge
anything or anyone because it is not what we are used to.

On May 19, 6:56 pm, Lindsay Korzekwa <lindsay...@gmail.com> wrote:
> 1) Lao-tzu believed that the Tao should remain nameless for multiple
> reasons. The Tao means the "Way of the whole observable universe" and
> it is believed to be "an eternal, everlasting, and unchanging force
> that pervades and unifies all nature." Lao-tzu believed that it is
> impossible to give something without form a name, that would be
> oversimplifying an undefinable concept. The main goal of Taoists is to
> become one with the Tao, and therefore with eternity. In order to
> achieve that, they believe that it is essential to be "natural and
> spontaneous."
>
> 2) Wu wei, meaning acting in harmony with nature, is one way of
> joining the Tao. Some compared the concept with water, as it has no
> form and will conform to its surroundings. Water is also very weak on
> its own, but when combined with more will create a powerful force of
> nature. Like water, humans should adhere to nature's ways, rather than
> those of society. In this way, we are not struggling against the
> universe, but rather living in harmony with it, making it easier to
> merge with the Tao.
>
> 3) If a bird's nest fell out of a tree, it is unlikely that a Taoist
> would put it back, even to save any birds in it. Such occurrences are
> seen as part of nature, as something that should be left alone rather
> than tampered with. If the nest was put back, that would be
> interrupting nature's natural patterns and disturbing its harmony.
>
> 4) A Taoist could most likely look at today's hunting regulations in
> different ways. By hunting animals for no reason other than sport, one
> is interrupting nature's natural order. By choosing to take the life
> of an animal, one is not conforming to nature but rather trying to
> change it. If, however someone was hunting for food, that would
> probably be seen as acceptable, as that is a natural process of life
> and what humans were built to do.
>
> 5) Confucianism and Taoism promote very different sets of beliefs.
> Confucianism emphasizes conformity, and preaches that a traditional
> and moral society is the best way of ensuring peace. One's place in a
> community was very strictly designated, each with its own duties and
> obligations. Taoism on the other hand, is much more focused on the
> individual's place in the universe rather than society as a whole.
> Imagination and non-conformity were encouraged, and Taoists in general
> "had an original way of looking at things, at phenomena of nature,
> indeed at the universe." On each side there are numerous advantages
> and disadvantages. In a Confucianist society, order would be upheld
> well, but it would be exceedingly difficult to achieve much progress.
> The community would be left static, unable to evolve with the rest of
> the world. On the other hand, a Taoist society could be so focused on
> individuality and non-conformity that complete chaos ensues. Without
> some element of structure, it would be impossible to achieve some form
> of order.
>
> 6) In China, Taoism could have affected ordinary people by encouraging
> imagination and creativity. Rather than simply doing what has always
> been done, they would most likely try something new. By looking at
> life in different ways, time spent on science could have increased,
> with perhaps less emphasis on history. They could also have found
> themselves questioning government policies, and thinking for
> themselves rather than blindly following orders. In this way, Taoism
> could definitely be seen as an anti-establishment philosophy.

[Adam]

1. One force of nature that I observed was the wind. Wind can be
powerful at times, yet relaxing at other instances. Wind is important
in nature because it helps spread seeds to have plants grow and it
cools people off during a hot day. Humans should be like wind when
controlling their actions. Most of the time our actions should be calm
and harmless, but there are times when we need to be violent. Humans
will be able to conform with nature when they are able to control
their actions and use them during the appropiate times.
2. Another thing that I observed in nature were the long branches of
the trees. Even though they seem pointless, they conform with nature.
Because of the long branches, squirrels and other animals are able to
travel from tree to tree. The long branches also bring joy to kids by
giving them the chance to climb the trees and have fun. One can be
like the tree branches by extending their reach to help as many things
as possible. Do the little things in life in order to help others'
lives be easier.
3. I also noticed that there were holes in the ground. These holes in
the ground can be used as a home for small animals. Other animals
probably dug the holes a while ago, but the holes are still here in
order to assist other animals. One can conform to nature, like the
holes in the ground, by helping the community and improving things in
daily life. In doing this, one would be leaving a better society for
the people in the future who live in the same community.

[Julia Bryck]

Taoism Nature Observation

1. One thing I observed while strolling around the stream was a
delicate spider web spanning from some tall grasses to the bridge.
While this act of nature utilized a man-made object, it demonstrates
natures undying will to adapt and mold to whatever obstacle is
presented. The bridge which was formed to aid man in crossing the
stream is certainly not in accordance with the forces of nature,
because nature did not intend for people or other animals to cross
there if a bridge was needed. If we were to follow the ways of nature,
we would have to wait until a tree fell (on its own, of course) or
find a shallow part of the river to cross. This small spider web has
found a balance between that which is man-made and naturally
occurring. Consequently, this perseverance to create the web using the
bridge is harmonious with nature. The persistence of the spider
integrates the bridge into the Tao.

2. Another force of nature that I found while on our nature walk was a
tree suspended across the stream at what seemed to be an impossible
angle. Its roots were half in the bank of the stream and half growing
straight out of the water. It appeared that erosion had caused the
bank to partially collapse, taking the tree with it. Instead of
completely falling, the tree survived, but now exists with its roots
exposed and its trunk going diagonally over the stream. This is in
harmony with nature because the tree did not disturb anything and
instead continues to fight to survive in its normal state. Life goes
on despite obstacles. The tree still harbors life stretches itself
skywards, just at a different angle.

3. While looking for the smaller miracles found in nature, I came
across a rotting log at the side of the stream. The unusual thing
about this particular log was that nestles in its crevices were lots
of little tiny orange eggs. This small events is in harmony with
nature because this seemingly insignificant log is, through its own
death, aiding in the progression of life. Through the rotting process,
it is giving its nutrients to other plants and also giving a home to
what will become new creatures. Unencumbered by the presence of
humans, the eggs have found a niche that is completely harmonious with
the forces of nature.

[Dan Maxwell]

1. One observation I had was of the algae growing on the rocks in the
stream. The algae protected the rocks by forming a slippery coating,
and the rocks provided a home for the algae. In this way, the algae-
rock combination was in harmony with nature. Humans can look at this
relationship and apply it in the world. If each human protected each
other and cared for each other like the algae and the rock care for
each other, the world can be a much improved place.

2. Another observation that I saw was a puddle of mud. In the mud,
there were organisms that had made a home from it. They could have
been temporarily resting; or using it as a home. This relationship was
in harmony with nature because the mud was caused by rainfall, which
benefits all nature. The rainfall combined with dirt to form mud,
which presented a home to living organisms. Humans can apply this
tactic to Taoism by taking advantage of random events. (Mentioned in A
Fine Balance) Just like the bugs, humans should try to see the
positive outlook of an event, instead of the negative.

3. A third observation that i saw was leaves blowing in the wind. The
leaf got torn off the tree by the wind and drifted a bit, before
falling to the ground. This observation was in harmony with nature
because the leaf did not resist the force of the wind. It let itself
flow with the force and therefore relocated its position. This relates
to humans. Humans should take advantage of forces, and not always try
to resist. However, sometimes, humans do try to resist the forces of
nature. We develop roads and cities in places that were, before,
places of natural beauty and elegance. Humans destroy nature,
therefore, resisting it. Humans should take a look at the various
relationships in nature and try to learn from them.

[Alex Kim]

1. The first thing in nature I observed was a tree whose branches (if
branch is the right word.... they were kinda fibrous but not really
woody...) were drooping towards the ground. I thought this tree was in
harmony with nature because it simply let gravity drag its limbs to
the ground. It did not try to fight the natural pull of gravity on its
branches. Rather, it grew in such a way that it could live and thrive
while being dragged towards the ground by gravity.

2. The second thing in nature I observed was a young deer running
across the field. I have no idea where is was going or why it was
going there so quickly... but it seemed perfectly in harmony with
nature. Surrounded by baseball fences and a busy street, one would
think that it would be impossible to be in tune with nature as this
deer was. Yet with a baby-like innocence the deer trotted across the
field, minding its own business, not disturbing the natural order of
things.

3. My last observation was the geese poop that was everywhere. The
fecal matter that was strewn all over the ground was a perfect example
of harmony within nature. The geese eat the grass, live off of its
nutrients, and then return those nutrients to the ground. Although
somewhat disgusting, this example perfectly illustrates how the geese
are in harmony with nature. I also chose to attempt to be harmonious
with nature by not stepping in the excrement, as to not disturb the
natural absorption of nutrients into the ground. (that was a joke.
haha....)

On May 19, 7:30 pm, Alex Kim <redsox.a...@gmail.com> wrote:
> 1. Lao-tzu said that the Tao cannot be named or defined because it has
> no form, even though it is present in everything. It is an "eternal,
> everlasting, and unchanging force" that unifies nature. It has less to
> do with physical form, but rather it is an intangible force that
> unifies all nature.
>
> 2. Wu wei is the principle of acting in harmony with nature. It means
> that a person should not struggle against the universe, but rather use
> nature and the universe for mutual benefit. An example of wu wei is
> water, that conforms to the nature around it. In the same way, humans
> should conform to nature and remain unchanged and "unspoiled" by
> society.
>
> 3. A Taoist would most likely leave a bird's nest that had fallen from
> a tree on the ground. If it fell on the ground, then it fell there for
> a reason according to nature. A Taoist is not supposed to struggle
> against nature but rather conform to it. If something happened in
> nature, it is not the responsibility or the right of a person to
> interfere.
>
> 4. A Taoist would probably view hunting regulations favorably. If
> someone is supposed to exist in nature peacefully and harmoniously,
> then it would follow that he did not kill animals. For this reason I
> think that a Taoist would think of hunting regulations, which restrict
> killing animals and struggling against nature, as a good thing.
>
> 5. While Confucianism focused upon values relating to society and
> politics, Taoism had to do with individual, natural, and non-societal
> concerns. Each has its place, and both can be followed at the same
> time. They do not contradict each other, but rather provide different
> sets of rules for different situations. While Taoism emphasizes the
> relationship between people and nature, Confucianism is concerned with
> people and their place in society. Both are very different, but
> equally important.
>
> 6. Taoism may have affected the ordinary person in China in how they
> live their life. Because it places an emphasis on the individual, and
> how he interacts with nature, it can be applicable to anyone in any
> situation. It has probably also affected the average person because
> Taoists developed many medicines, inventions, and practices that still
> exist in prevalence today. Taoism could be seen as anti-establishment
> because it places so much emphasis on the individual. Whereas
> Confucianism provided rules for living in a structured, hierarchical
> society, Taoism focused on the individual, and for that reason could
> be considered anti-establishment.

[Andrew Lin]

Andrew Lin
The Nature of (and in) the Tao
1. The line which separates the rangy wilderness of the forest from
the clean order of the high school fields is sharply defined, with
carefully-mowed edges and a mostly-intact fence serving as two very
obvious boundary lines. In its elegance it is representative of the
balance inherent in nature against humanity. More importantly,
however, it shows the ultimate futility of resisting the will of
nature. In order to maintain the boundary at all between the forest
and the RHS lawns, a crew of gardeners must carefully mow the line
every week, taking care to remove sticks, stumps, and other signs of
encroachment from nature. The uniquely human desire to control nature,
however, is no match for Gaia’s sheer force of will. The fence, made
out of seemingly indefatigable metal, is overgrown with ivy and weeds,
and there is even a fairly large breach through which animals could
pass. Despite his best efforts, man can never hope to fully tame the
unbridled power of nature; the best solution is to live in harmony
with it – to embrace the Tao.
2. Stumbling through the sharp thorns, knotted grasses, and ancient
roots of the forest is a ditch, a former tributary of a stream now
choked with weeds and grasses. This forgotten side stream, which might
once have been home to a school of minnows or a family of frogs, is
now empty save for a tangle of assorted plant life – the new tenants
of the “stream”. But this former canal is not something to be pitied
or mourned; rather, it should be admired for its ability to adapt and
change with circumstance. In its acceptance of the course of water –
perhaps the best codification of wu wei – this ex-tributary has now
become host to a new breed of life which will allow this ditch to
retain its form long after the rest of the streams have worn away. Its
world, just as chaotic and unpredictable as ours, is now secure;
perhaps if we also follow its example, merely following the ever-
changing path life blazes for us, we may also manage to achieve a
sense of lasting harmony with nature.
3. Somewhere within the overgrown depths of a small strip of forest
near the high school lie four not-very-large and not-particularly
hazardous gopher holes. Within these unassuming holes in the ground,
however, there lie portents into understanding the mystical balance of
the Tao. These gopher holes are perfectly sized for their inhabitants,
and though they dig straight through a small hillock, they are so
sturdily constructed that the hillock does not collapse. The perfect
harmony of these four gopher holes, constructed by inhabitants fully
cognizant of their individual places within nature, is profoundly
beautiful. Their building skill certainly does also carry an important
message for us humans; in our modern age of rampant over-construction,
we too must remember our place in nature. Who are we, after all, to
upset the balance?

[Saad Imran]

Saad Imran
1. The first thing I noticed in nature was a deer running across the
Softball and regular field. This deer running was very harmonious with
nature because It may have been running from something which was
harming the animal, or it may have been running for some other odd
reason. The deer running is harmonious for nature as we know its
running had some type of benefit to it. Additionally, the deer may
have been running to get food, and if this were true this would be a
benefit to nature as it would be feeding itself and maybe it feeding
itself might be a mutualistic relationship with some other plant.
Humans should allow themselves to do what they can to protect
themselves, but only to the extent of just protecting themselves.
Furthermore, humans should not harm the general balance of nature in
the process.

2. The second thing i saw in nature while I was walking by the stream
was water flowing around the rocks in a stream. The water conformed
with nature as the water adapted to its surroundings and got rid of
all the barriers which enabled it to flourish. Additionally, the water
found a way to go around the rocks, and avoid every harmful rock by
still going on. Water is a good example of the concept of wu wei which
means to act harmonious with nature. Additionally, like in the concept
of Wu Wei water adapted to nature instead of damaging the course of
nature. I believe humans should do the same thing and conquer their
obstacles and challenges, and to conquer these obstacles and
challenges should be integrated as a part of life.

3. The third thing which i noticed in nature was 4 medium sized
holes in the woods behind the stream. These holes were ther to house
some type of animal may it be a gopher, groundhog, etc. These holes
are harmonious with nature as these holes provide just the right
amount of shelter that these animals need, but at the same time
providing them with a sturdy structure to depend on. also it is not
inhibiting the stream or any of its surrounding areas to work properly
so it is also harmonious in that sense. Humans should conform to
nature like these holes and only use the needed supplies for building
a home, yet at the same time make it so it is not really affecting the
ecosystem around it.
On May 19, 10:04 pm, Saad Imran <saleensaa...@aol.com> wrote:
> 1.Taoism is concerned with Individuals and non-societal matters.
> Taoism also liberated the imaginations of individuals and encouraged
> nonconformity.  Lao-Tzu did not want to give Tao a name because he
> taught that the Tao is present in everything, yet it has no form and
> cannot be named or defined. Additionally, Lao-Tzu said that all
> Taoists sought to be identified with the Tapp, and to be in harmony
> with the entire universe.  Additionally Taoists believed the Tao to be
> an everlasting force that pervades and unifies all of nature.
> Furthermore Taoists also believed that the individual achieving unity
> with eternity was also considered to be one with eternity.
>
> 2.  I believe We Wei to be acting in harmony with nature. Wu wei
> encourages to go with the natural flow of the World, and acting by not
> acting in several aspects. I also believe that it is a one direction
> force which no person can fight back, and instead one should work with
> nature instead of fighting against it. Lastly, I believe a key idea is
> the One should not be to indulged and corrupted by society, and should
> work with ease and naturalness which can be only accomplished by
> working with nature.
>
> 3. I believe if a true Taoist was to see a bird's nest fall out of a
> tree, a Taoist would not put it back and just ignore it. I believe a
> TRUE Taoist would do this because if they pick up the bird's nest it
> would be against nature's will, and would disrupt the general harmony
> of the environment.  Additionally, If it is truly a bad thing for the
> environment, the nature would take care of it and there is no need for
> human interference. The most a Taoist might do to the Bird's nest is
> just observe it.
>
> 4. I believe a Taoist would not view the hunting regulations in
> today's society favorably. This is because the Taoist might believe
> that hunting would ruin the harmonious nature of the world, and
> hunting for sport especially is against the core values of a Taoist. A
> Taoist might believe in further tightening the regulations on hunting
> to make it just for necessary needs which would not ruin the
> harmonious nature of the universe. Additionally, I believe although
> Taoist would have objection of  not many hunting regulations for
> sport, they would be in support of no regulation for food as it does
> not disrupt the harmony.
>
> 5. Confucianism and Taoism differ in that they are almost complete
> opposite of each other in principle. First of all Confucianism and
> Taoism differ in that Confucianism focuses on the development of a
> moral and harmonious political activity and Taoism is concerned with
> individual and non societal matters. Additionally Confucianism is
> limited to the scope of people and their place in society and
> government while Taoism has emphasis on relationships between people
> and the universe. Additionally unlike Confucianism,  Taoism does not
> have societal order and instead soar into the world of imagination,
> exploration, and the physical and poetic aspects of the universe.
> Benefits of Confucianism are that it gives respect for culture,
> education and knowledge. These ideologies form the best foundation on
> the basis of which any nation could be governed. Other than
> Confucianism making strong leaders, it also makes good attributes to a
> person and teaches him to respect other people in their world. Some
> negative aspects of Confucianism is that it does not allow one to
> connect with nature and the outside world.  It additionally seems that
> one's inner self is more cleansed when it comes to following Taoism.
> Both Confucianism and Taoism need a general balance when following.
>
> 6. Taoism could have affected the average individual in China as it
> could have inspired them to have a more imaginative and exploratory
> view on life and view on how to approach life. Additionally it
> encourages free consideration of the relationship of man and universe
> and it can very obviously be seen as a anti-establishment philosophy.
> This is as Taoism can cause problems in the Government and social
> order of China as Taoists don't believe in such things. Additionally
> the intuitive nature of the Taoists was not very beneficial.

[dalton morris]

1. The first observation that I made while in the wilderness of Radnor
High School was the slight breeze gently pressing my face. The wind,
along with water, are prime examples of taoist beliefs because they
can go anywhere and "go with the flow." This wind is harmonious with
nature because it provides relief from a hot summers day to many
living organisms. Also, the wind can carry seeds of plants that are
looking to spread their roots. Humans can conform to the wind by not
trying to stop it or what it intends to do. If the wind wants to blow
down a tree, then you must let the tree fall, no matter how much you
love that tree.

2. The second observation that I made was the water in the stream
trickling around the rocks. As mentioned before, water is an ideal
example of taoist beliefs because water can so easily change shape and
adapts to everything around it. This water is harmonious with nature
because it hydrates many organisms such as deer, squirrels, foxes, and
many others. The water also acts as a habitat for many other
organisms, such as frogs, geese, aquatic plants, etc. Humans can
conform to the water by not moving the rocks or splashing through the
stream for no reason. Also, humans can limit the amount that they fish
in the stream.

3. The last observation that I saw was a bee. Bee's are very
harmonious with nature. To humans, bee's may not seem important and
maybe they even seem annoying, but to nature, they serve a purpose.
Bee's make honey and pollinate flowers. Honey is something that many
animals, including us humans, eat. Also, when the bees pollinate the
flowers, they spread the seeds. Humans can conform to the bee's but
not slapping at them and trying to kill them

[mclax...@aol.com]

1. The first observation I made was the water flowing down stream,
sifting through the rocks and bending with the turns that the land
creates. Humans should follow the path of water that seems to go with
the flow, going around its various obstacles. Instead of avoiding or
panicking, humans should simply go in the direction that life turns
them. Tao literally means path, and its the natural path one takes
that will bring them peace and success on earth.
2. Another observation I made was a bird peacefully perched on a tree
gazing across the fields. The bird is not bothered by the humans
surrounding and observing the nature around it, but he is enjoying
some alone time atop the tree, perhaps feeling powerful from being
able to look down at its neighbors. The bird practices effortless
doing or action without action just as humans should. This practice is
called wu wei and is similar to the path of water yielding its natural
counterparts.
3. The last observation is algae engulfing a big rock perched in the
middle of a stream. As the water flows around the rock downstream, the
slippery algae has eventually formed on the rock. The slippery algae
can be seen as the rock's protection from animals or humans walking on
it. It is do dangerous to walk on from the risk of slipping and
falling into the river. Protection is the key to peace which is main
goal of taoism. Signs relating to the algae on the rock, should give
humans a warning not to disturb the other, thus remaining in peace.