ABSTRACT
In the history of Chinese political thought, Daoism came up with its own unique philosophy on the question of social harmony. Early Daoist thinkers condemned war, tyranny, technology, and the usage of advanced weapons. They required that rulers should obey social laws, value highly people’s life and property, and provide a peaceful environment for the people to settle down and enjoy their work. This chapter argues that Laozi’s political philosophy of “esteeming Dao and honoring virtue” and concrete political strategy of “honoring softness,” “respecting frugality,” and “valu[ing] deep love” are valuable intellectual resources to maintain peace in contemporary world.
