“Describe and rate the Strengths &
Weaknesses of Daoism” Ordinarily, to begin to answer this question, one must understand the meaning of Daoism. In fact, Daoism or (Taoism) in China is the path, course, or way of the universe. Although its influence is in nature, the eternal Dao is believed to be hidden from empirical experience (Matthews 414). According to further research, “Daoism or Taoism, is indigenous religio-philosophical tradition that has shaped Chinese life for more 2,000 years. In the broadest sense, a Daoist attitude toward life can be seen in the accepting and yielding, the joyful and carefree sides of the Chinese character (www.brittannica.com).” Moreover, Laozi (lao Tzu), the sage of China believed to have been the author of “Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching) and is regard as the founder of Daoism. However, I glean historically, Daoism developed forms that included common people as well as philosophers. Conversely, some sought immorality through alchemy, some, special ways of healing, health, also magical and political powers (Matthews 184). Yet, if understanding correctly, to describe and rate Daoism’s strengths or weaknesses, one must be an excellent Chinese scholar. Likewise, having full knowledge and understanding of Chinese literature would be of great help. However, I will attempt to describe some forms Daoism developed. Notably, the Dao De Jing focuses on harmony of opposites within the peaceful flow of the Dao. Yet, beneath