Macro · Structures & Institutions Stub -400

Daoist Wu Wei and Ziran

노장사상의 무위자연과 물아일체

A classical Chinese philosophy advocating effortless action (*Wu Wei*) in spontaneous alignment with the natural generative cosmic order (*Dao* and *Ziran*), transcending rigid social distinctions.

Field Philosophy · Religious Studies
Level of analysis Macro · Structures & Institutions
Paradigm Phenomenology Pragmatism
Key figures 👤 Laozi (노자) 👤 Zhuangzi (장자)
Year -400

Key Claims

Laozi and Zhuangzi rejected artificial sociopolitical hierarchies. Wu Wei (non-contriving, effortless action) harmonizes human existence with Ziran (natural spontaneity). In the Zhuangzi, the famous butterfly dream collapses rigid dualisms between self and world, achieving effortless spiritual liberation (Xiaoyaoyou).

Further Reading

  • Laozi. (ca. 4th c. BC). Dao De Jing.
  • Zhuangzi. (ca. 3rd c. BC). Zhuangzi.

Related theories 3개

Theories pointing to this one 2개