AskJason-11-Thumhnail

Taoism’s Aimlessness vs Western Purpose

In the West there is an emphasis on purpose and the need for purpose to fulfill our so-called empty lives. But this perspective is diametrically opposed to the essential teaching of wu-wei in Taoism. In the Tao Te Ching and the Zhuangzi there is a focus on aimlessness as a method for creating healthy and sane individuals. Purpose, on the other hand, is thought of as a blind alley that can lead to all sorts of psychological problems from the Taoist perspective. In this episode of Ask Jason, I will answer a few questions about whether or not purpose can fit into the art of wu-wei (effortless living/non-doing/non-interference) and whether or not we should have a goal or goals in life and on the spiritual path.

NOTE: This site directs people to Amazon and is an Amazon Associate member. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you. The pages on this website may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I have recommended. This goes a tiny way towards defraying the costs of maintaining this site.

Tags: No tags

2 Responses