Legalism and Daoism: A Comparative Analysis of Mystical Elements in Ancient Chinese Philosophies

Authors

  • Leni Lenong Research Scholar at the Seoul School for the Policy Studies, Seoul
  • Dr. Maham Toqeer Associate Professor and the Research Supervisor at the Seoul School for Policy Studies, Seoul (South Korea)

Keywords:

Yellow Emporer, Han Feizi, Han China, Political Behavior, Pragmatism, Wu Wei

Abstract

Legalism and Daoism represent two distinct philosophical traditions that emerged during ancient China’s Warring States period, each offering unique perspectives on governance and human conduct. Legalism, epitomized by figures like Shang Yang and Han Fei, emphasizes strict adherence to laws and regulations as essential for maintaining social order and political stability. In contrast, Daoism, attributed to Laozi and Zhuangzi, advocates for natural spontaneity (wu wei) and harmony with the Dao, a cosmic principle underlying all existence. This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of these philosophical systems, focusing on their mystical elements and their implications for governance and societal values. Key research questions include examining how mystical concepts such as cosmic alignment, the role of the ruler and ethical conduct are articulated within Legalist and Daoist texts and exploring their influence on later Chinese philosophical and religious thought. This study sheds light on the nuanced interplay between pragmatic governance and metaphysical speculation in ancient Chinese philosophy.

References

Ames, R. T., & Hall, D. L. (2003). Daoism and Chinese philosophy. In E. N. Zalta (Ed.), The Stanford encyclopedia of philosophy (Winter 2020 Edition). Stanford University. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/archives/win2020/entries/daoism/

Ames, R. T., & Hall, D. L. (2003). Daoism and Chinese philosophy. In E. N. Zalta (Ed.), The Stanford encyclopedia of philosophy (Winter 2020 Edition). Stanford University. Retrieved from https://plato.stanford.edu/archives/win2020/entries/daoism/

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Creel, H. G. (1970). Legalism and Chinese philosophy. University of Hawaii Press.

Dingxin Zhao. (Modern era). Characterizing the Western Han as developing a Confucian-Legalist state.

Han, F. (2010). The Complete Works of Han Fei Tzu. Columbia University Press.

Hansen, C. (2005). A Daoist Theory of Chinese Thought: A Philosophical Interpretation. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Sima, Q. (2023). Records of the Grand Historian. Beijing: Zhonghua Book Company.

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Published

01-08-2024

How to Cite

Leni Lenong, & Dr. Maham Toqeer. (2024). Legalism and Daoism: A Comparative Analysis of Mystical Elements in Ancient Chinese Philosophies. Insights of Mystical, Spiritual and Theological Studies, 3(3), 40–46. Retrieved from http://imsts.rmrpublishers.org/index.php/files/article/view/72