In this second film about the influence of Taoism on Chinese thought we learn about the legendary meeting and discussions between Lao Tze and Confucius, which brings out the different approaches they took towards the problems in the turbulent times they lived in.
We then learn about the Warring States period, and the debates that were held between scholars who were followers of the two great thinkers, and the compromises that were reached, whereby Confucinism absorbed a lot of Taoist thought; we also hear how the first commentary on the Tao Te Ching was written, and the fate of its author.
Much was lost after the unification of China, and a subsequent purge of scholars, books and thought which were not in line with official court policy. This was one of the first great burnings of books, and destruction of knowledge that has plagued Chinese history.
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to see an album of stills click here