GLOBAL CIRCULATION OF DAOISM1
Daoism is among the two most dominant religious systems of China, which originated
in ancient times around 500 BCE. Also referred to as Taoism, this religion is based on the
philosophy of ‘Dao’ which means ‘the way’ (Dean). I am a follower of Daoism and
incorporate its vital principles of following a fixed path through life in my daily activities. It
feels like more of a philosophical belief than a religion. I am appreciative of some of its
principles while also stand against some other beliefs.
I am appreciative of one of its chief principles of living a simple life (Simpkins,
Alexander, and Simpkins). As a daoist, my daily life is meant to be elementary. Enjoyment is
necessary to stay healthy both physically and mentally but not excessive of it as is the current
American scenario with rapid technological growth. I prefer to extend this practice of
simplicity to all domains of my life, including home and college work rather than make it
complicated in at attempt to do many things. I strongly believe in another essential principle
of Taoism that life is the most precious gift bestowed to us. Without this gift of life, we
would not be able to understand the important lessons required to ascend the to the higher
state (Simpkins, Alexander, and Simpkins). Though a believer of rebirth, every life is
considered very valuable. Hence, I inculcate the practice of taking good care of myself,
including both physical and mental state which is integral to keep sane in the advanced
American society of today. A crucial element of the philosophies of Daoism is present in
Daodejing, an attribution to the founder of this religion, Laozi. Legends state that this book
was written when Laozi decided to move to the west from China as a memory of him
(Barbalet). This document is essential to Chinese history as it displays the mindset of Ancient
China and is one of the sources of the philosophies of present-day China. The principle of
Wuwei is one I am firmly in favour of. The term WuWei in literal sense means ‘no sense’.
This practice of refraining from interference with the natural course of any action forms a
primary element of my daily routine. The entire universe, including humans, find their natural

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Daoism- A popular Asian culture

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