Taoism

     Taoism is native to China and is almost as big as Confucianism in terms of its influence on Chinese culture. Taoist philosophy is thought to have started with a man called Laozi (literally 'Old One') but very little is known about him or whether he even actually existed. He is believed to have lived in the 6th century BC and to have been a custodian of the imperial Chinese government archives. Even Confucius is thought to have consulted with him.

     Taoism is a little mysterious and is in many ways indescribable, but the word tao literally means 'the way' and is thought to signify the 'essence of all things.' Taoism's main theme is 'wuwei' or 'doing nothing'. To further illustrate the meaning behind this, Laozi was quoted as saying 'do nothing, and nothing will be done' which many interpret as emphasizing the principle of humbleness, passivity, and nonagression.

    Chien Azuma