Exploring the Philosophy of Zhuangzi: The Way, Language, Freedom, and Beauty

Author: Xu Keqian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: This book draws on certain theories and methods from contemporary linguistic philosophy and hermeneutics to conduct a detailed analysis of a series of important philosophical concepts in the Zhuangzi, such as "Dao," "Language," "Truth," "Fate," "Freedom," and "Beauty." Through this, it examines and studies Zhuangzi's theory of Dao, his views on language, freedom, aesthetics, and the intrinsic connections between them, attempting to interpret the characteristics of Zhuangzi's philosophy from a new perspective. The introduction provides some explanations regarding the research methods and the use of textual materials from the Zhuangzi.
Chapter 1 examines the background of Zhuangzi's philosophy, attempting to elucidate the origins of his thought and its connections with other schools of thought.
Chapter 2 explores the etymology and semantics of the term "Dao," offering a new investigation into the essence of Zhuangzi's theory of Dao.
Chapter 3 analyzes the concept of "Truth" in the Zhuangzi.
Chapter 4 discusses Zhuangzi's view on language, particularly his skepticism about language.
Chapter 5 analyzes the paradox of "Dao cannot be spoken" versus "Dao is the very language," as well as the unique mode of discourse in the Zhuangzi.
Chapter 6 discusses Zhuangzi's perspective on human existence, his philosophy of life, his ideal of freedom, and his theoretical framework for achieving individual freedom.
Chapter 7 conducts an etymological and semantic analysis of the term "Fate" in ancient Chinese philosophical texts and focuses on Zhuangzi's attitude toward "Fate."
Chapter 8 discusses Zhuangzi's form of "individualism" and compares it with individualism in Western cultural traditions.
Chapter 9 discusses Zhuangzi's concept of "Beauty" and the aesthetic value of Zhuangzi's philosophy.