EthicsLesson 3 of 4 in the course Normative Moral Theory

Daoist Ethics: The Dao, Wu Wei, and Ethical Traditions

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Daoism developed in ancient China as thinkers sought responses to conflict and suffering during the Warring States period. This lesson introduces Daoism’s origins and its central idea: the dao, the natural way and source of all existence.

Daoism, also spelled Taoism, arose alongside Confucianism and Mohism amid social unrest. Its thinkers sought harmony in individual life and society. Daoists locate much suffering in desire and greed, and question whether social rules alone can produce a flourishing life. Rather than relying primarily on systems of regulation, Daoism recommends living in accordance with what is natural.

All flashcards

Dao
The natural way of the universe and the inexhaustible source of all things.
Why can’t the dao be fully named?
Naming gives things definite identities, but the limitless dao cannot be captured by one description.
Daoist metaphysics
An account of reality in which the dao is the source of being, nonbeing, change, and all things.
Wu wei
Responsive, spontaneous action without unnecessary force or striving.
Daoist naturalism
The view that ethical life should be rooted in nature and aligned with the dao.

Quiz questions

  1. What does wu wei mean in Daoist practice?Answer: Acting responsively without forced striving or unnecessary force.
  2. What standard does Mohism emphasize when assessing actions?Answer: Whether actions promote general welfare.
  3. Why do Daoist texts use paradoxes?Answer: To challenge fixed assumptions and invite deeper reflection.
  4. How does Daoism generally regard social conventions that encourage artificial living?Answer: It questions whether they disrupt natural harmony and increase conflict.
  5. In the *Daodejing*, what risk is associated with attachment to favour and honour?Answer: Fear of losing status can bring anxiety.

Based on Introduction to Philosophy by Nathan Smith (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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