Geography Reference
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atomized pattern of isolated agricultural settlements. It was still pos-
sible, however, to appreciate Taoism as stripped down to its essential
points and to apply it in broad, analogical terms to everyday practical
situations and problems. Thus, in the age of civilization, Taoism as a
political philosophy became a laissez-faire ideology that embraced a
minimalist, conservative approach in government, gently encouraged
a renewed awareness of the nature of the universe, and anticipated
the behavioral changes that would result from this awareness.
But Taoism was much more than just a political ideology and could
be applied in many other directions. Throughout Chinese history
Taoist thinkers have come up with seemingly endless applications of
Taoist ideas. These applications have, for instance, included Taoist ways
for interpersonal relations, artistic expression and military campaigns.
In interpersonal relations, ideas extended from basic Taoist concepts
encourage us not to be high-profile and confrontational. Have no
enemies and you will have no conflicts. Avoid the temptation to assume
powerful positions of leadership that will expose you to great vulner-
abilities. Doing a little is better than doing a lot, especially when it
comes to dealing with dangerous or potentially volatile situations.
As far as artistry is concerned, many Chinese have concluded that a
Taoist awareness can foster and spur the creative impulses by setting
the individual free. Once artists understand the tao,theirartistic
uniqueness or voice approach will take care of itself. The tao will help
artists be their own best selves and realize their own best potentials
and perspectives.
It may seem surprising that Taoist thinkers would apply their
philosophy to military conflict. To be sure, the Tao-te-ching does not
approve of military conflict, but more specifically it speaks of not
glorying in military might and of avoiding conflict if at all possible.
But if there is to be a fight, ideas extended from Taoism hold that the
warrior should conserve as much of his energy as possible while at
thesametimesappingtheenemyoftheirs.Heshouldassumealow
profile in fighting and not launch massive frontal assaults on fortified
enemy positions or engage in positional warfare. The classic Taoist
style of combat is guerilla warfare. If you must fight, do not assemble
huge armies with banners and drums and fanfare. In modern Western
military terms, do not form large units such as brigades and divisions
as your fundamental fighting unit, but rather form small fire teams of
three or four men who come together only briefly for combat and then
disperse quickly, thus making them more difficult targets for the
enemy. Appear seemingly from out of nowhere and return to nowhere
as soon as possible. Linger about the enemy's flanks and do not
