Publication details
Wang Bi Laoxue zhong xiaojixing yu jijixing de maodun
| Title in English | The paradox of positivity and negativity in Wang Bi's interpretation of the Laozi |
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| Authors | |
| Year of publication | 2005 |
| Type | Article in Proceedings |
| Conference | Tianti, shenti, yu guoti: Hui xiang shijie de hanxue |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Philosophy and religion |
| Keywords | Wang Bi; xuanxue; Learning of the Dark; Chinese philosophy |
| Description | The article addresses the problem of negativity and positivity of Dao's or ruler's making order in the world. Traditionally, the problem is solved in terms of pure negativity -- both Dao and ruler do not act on the world, and the world is ordered by itself (spontaneously). The article advocates the opposite view -- Wang Bi in fact formulates exact requirements by which the ruler's activity is delineated. The positive and negative aspects of activity are both valid, while the difference lies in insufficient human cognition. Dao and ruler positively act on the world, but in a special manner -- so that the world is not aware of the activity. From the world's point of view Dao and ruler are both absent in the world, and everything happens as if by itself. |