The General Theory of Taoism
Editor: Hu Fuchen
ISBN: 978-1-84464-096-6
E-ISBN: 978-1-84464-095-9
Hardback-310
English
£65 €78 $98
To understand Taoism is to understand the roots of contemporary Chinese culture. This hugely significant new book from Hu Fuchen highlights the significance of Taoism in modern day China, and supplies detailed information covering all aspects of a philosophical and religious tradition which is followed by as many as 400 million people worldwide. Comprehensive and user-friendly, the author outlines the principle theories and categories of Taoism covering each aspect in great detail. The specialist coverage includes Taoist philosophy, New-Taoism, the deep history of Taoism, methods and tips on how to obtain spiritual powers, Neidan (internal alchemy), nourishing life, health and medicine plus notes on important Taoist documents and guides. Whether new to the subject or a follower, this essential book will enable you to better understand all aspects Taoism and appreciate its central role within a newly reformedChina. The General Theory of Taoism is divided into six sections: New-Taoism; Innovation; Taoism as Religion; Supernatural Powers; Neidan; Taoism Canon. In section one, New-Taoism, the author states that Taoism originally referred to the theories of Laozi and Chuangzi, and explores its roots in the development and characters of Chinese culture. This section argues that the virtues of Taoism are ‘obtaining One to command group’ and ‘observe Centre so as to achieve and maintain harmony’. Section two, Innovation, sees Hu Fuchen present four key articles, into which he has poured his full knowledge and energy to construct and interpret New-Taoism, building a case that Taoism is the only one feasible cultural strategy in 21st century China. Section three, Taoism as Religion, investigates the definition of ‘Taoist religion’ and analyses the conditions of the occurrence of Taoist religion and its characters. The second part of this section provides a concise phylogeny of Taoist religion. Supernatural Powers, section four, introduces the theories and practice of nourishing life of Taoism as well as methods and practical tips on future telling, obtaining great energy from the cosmos, plus information on the other supernatural aspects of Taoism. He also explores the scientific contents of these methods and tips. The section covering Neidan (internal alchemy), using modern scientific and philosophical aspects, the author discusses the history, development and the schools of Neidan. Hu Fuchen also outlines the practices of crossing the threshold of Neidan and the steps for upgrading to higher levels, disclosing the ancient secrets of Neidan. And finally in section six, Taoist Canon, the author explores principle Taoist guides throughout the history of China as well as numerous books which are not traditionally included in such lists.