The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 312: The Dao De Jing on Virtue (Part Two)
Mar 13, 2023
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Dao's Cyclical Nature & Weakening Function
- The Dao arises from an indeterminate state and produces the determinate, showing a cyclical and complementary relationship.
- The Dao itself functions by yielding or "weakening," similar to the relational dynamic in martial arts like Aikido.
Aikido as Dao Example
- The hosts use Aikido as an example where yielding to an opponent's force results in effective control without direct opposition.
- This illustrates Dao's function as receiving and redirecting energy rather than exerting brute force.
Dao and Yin-Yang Cosmology
- The Dao gives rise to one, one to two, two to three, and three to the myriad creatures, incorporating yin and yang as vital dynamic forces.
- The Dao transcends singularity and plurality being prior to number and categorization, suggesting a foundational cosmic principle.