New Exploration of Zhuangzi Philosophy (Dao · Speech · Freedom and Beauty)

Author: Xu Keqian
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-01-01
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." It thereby examines and studies Zhuangzi's theory of Dao, his perspective on language, his view on freedom, his aesthetics, and the internal connections among them, attempting to interpret the characteristics of Zhuangzi's philosophy from a new angle. The introduction provides some explanations regarding the research methods and the use of textual materials from the Zhuangzi.
Chapter 1 examines the historical background of Zhuangzi's philosophy, attempting to clarify the origins of his thought and its connections with other schools of thought.
Chapter 2 explores the etymology and semantics of the word "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 perspective on language, particularly his skepticism about language.
Chapter 5 analyzes the paradox of "the Dao cannot be spoken" versus "the Dao is the language," as well as the unique mode of discourse in the Zhuangzi.
Chapter 6 discusses Zhuangzi's views 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.