Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching is the second most translated book
in the world, and the practice of religious Taoism is on the rise
in China, where adherents currently number in the hundreds of
millions. Yet there remains a remarkable lack of reliable
information about Taoism for curious westerners. Taoism For
Dummies provides comprehensive coverage of Taoism's origins in
China's Chou Dynasty, its underlying quietist principles, its
emergence as a major religion, various interpretation of its core
texts, including both Eastern and Western interpretations, key
Taoist concepts, and much more. It also provides a fascinating
glimpse of Taoism in contemporary China.

The ideal guide for readers interested in this influential
religion, as well as those taking an introductory course on Taoism
or Chinese Religion
A valuable source of insight for those with an interest in
modern Chinese culture and beliefs

Autorentext

Jonathan Herman, PhD, is the Director of Undergraduate Studies and Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Georgia State University in Atlanta, where he teaches courses in Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, Shinto, world religions, comparative mysticism, and critical theory in the study of religion. He has written extensively on various aspects of Taoism, Chinese religion, and modern religious issues.

Zusammenfassung
The definitive guide to understanding Taoismno matter your background or faith Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching is the second most translated book in the world, and the practice of religious Taoism is on the rise in China, where adherents currently number in the hundreds of millions. Yet there remains a remarkable lack of reliable information about Taoism for curious westerners. Taoism For Dummies provides comprehensive coverage of Taoism's origins in China's Chou Dynasty, its underlying quietist principles, its emergence as a major religion, various interpretation of its core texts, including both Eastern and Western interpretations, key Taoist concepts, and much more. It also provides a fascinating glimpse of Taoism in contemporary China.

The ideal guide for readers interested in this influential religion, as well as those taking an introductory course on Taoism or Chinese Religion
A valuable source of insight for those with an interest in modern Chinese culture and beliefs

Inhalt

Introduction 1

Part I: Navigating the World of Taoism 7

Chapter 1: An Introduction to Taoism 9

Chapter 2: What Is Taoism? 19

Chapter 3: Don't Believe Everything You Think 31

Part II: Looking At the Development of Taoism
45

Chapter 4: Classical Taoist Philosophy 47

Chapter 5: The Development of Institutional Taoism 73

Chapter 6: Types of Taoism in China Today 91

Chapter 7: Go West, Old Tao, Go West 109

Part III: Examining Important Taoist Concepts
133