ABSTRACT
Taoism is commonly recognized as one of the most influential Chinese schools of thought. Taoism represents the way of life since, according to Lao Tzu; it is the origin of all beings. Most of Taoism teachings are devoted to grasp how to reach “the way” – also known as Tao. Taoism focuses on harmony emerging from the natural order and transcendental spirit; in dealing with other firms, managers should focus on their firms’ strengths and weaknesses rather than formulating and implementing cruel actions against rivals. Thus, the pattern of coopetition inspired by Taoism is called implicit coopetition, where competition is not explicit. Taoism, along with Confucianism, represents one of the most relevant and diffused philosophical traditions that have shaped and permeated Eastern culture for more than 2,000 years. In detecting the philosophical roots of coopetition, Confucianism addresses how individuals should cultivate themselves and take care of their personal, familiar, and social interactions.
