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Liezi

Daoist literature
Also known as: “Chongxu zhide zhenjing”

Quick Summary

The Liezi is a foundational text in Daoist philosophy, attributed to the philosopher Liezi, who lived in 4th-century BCE China. The text, possibly dating from the 3rd or 4th century CE, emphasizes conforming to the Dao, the mysterious and unknowable cosmic reality of constant change.

A notable section, the "Yangzhu" chapter, reflects a philosophy of radical self-interest, suggesting that individuals should prioritize their own lives and not sacrifice for the greater good. The Liezi is known for its wit and its philosophical focus on using nature's patterns as a guide for human conduct. While some scholars question Liezi's existence due to later forgeries and his omission in early historical records, most believe he was a real individual.12

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  1. Liezi
  2. Taoism - Yang Zhu and the Liezi

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