LaoZi
...writing. He believed that written words might solidify into formal dogma (Internet 5). Laozi wanted his philosophy to remain a natural way to live life with goodness, serenity and respect. At age 80 he set out toward what is now Tibet, saddened and disillusioned that people were unwilling to follow his path to natural goodness (Grolier). Legend says Laozi set off into the desert on a water buffalo leaving civilization behind (Internet 5). When he arrived at the final gate at the great wall protecting the kingdom, the gatekeeper persuaded him to record the principles of his philosophy for posterity. The result was the "Daode Jing." This ancient Chinese classic was translated more than any other book ever; except for the Bible (Internet 6). Laozi gained many followers after writing the "Daode Jing." Laozi saw past everyday worries to focus on the dao, or "the way" of the universe as a whole (Ellis 91). The "Daode Jing" teaches that the dao is realized through recognition and acceptance of nothingness. Laozi thought that by "doing nothing" one could "accomplish everything." He did not mean to literally do nothing, but to discern and follow the natural forces (Internet 6). First and foremost to be spontaneous in ones actions. He laid down no rigid code for behavior. He believed a person's conduct should be governed by instinct and conscience. Laozi believed that human life, like everythi...