School of Thought
Daoism
Daoism (Taoism) is a Chinese philosophical and religious tradition founded on the teachings attributed to Laozi, centered on living in harmony with the Dao — the natural Way of the universe.
Where Confucianism stresses ritual and social duty, Daoism counsels simplicity, spontaneity and effortless action (wu wei), seeking alignment with the underlying order of nature.
Daoism is the great counterpoint to Confucianism in Chinese thought. Where Confucius emphasized ritual and social order, the tradition attributed to Laozi urges harmony with the Dao — the spontaneous Way of nature — through wu wei, or effortless action.
Expressed in the enigmatic verses of the Dao De Jing, Daoism shaped ancient Chinese art, medicine and statecraft, and offered a vision of wisdom rooted in yielding, simplicity and the balance of opposites.
Core Ideas
- The Dao (the Way)
- Wu wei (effortless, natural action)
- Simplicity and spontaneity
- Harmony of opposites (yin and yang)
Founders
Key Figures of Daoism
Laozi
93Laozi was a semi-legendary ancient Chinese philosopher traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism and the author of the Tao Te Ching, the foundational text on living in harmony with the Dao.
Laozi
93Laozi was a semi-legendary ancient Chinese philosopher traditionally regarded as the founder of Daoism and the author of the Tao Te Ching, the foundational text on living in harmony with the Dao.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Daoism?
Daoism is a Chinese tradition founded on teachings attributed to Laozi that emphasizes living in harmony with the Dao — the natural Way — through simplicity and effortless action (wu wei).