After writing several posts about "The Art of War", I thought it was about time to read a book called The Art of Peace. This is John Patterson's translation of Lao Tzu's Tao Te Ching, published by Steele Roberts who kindly sent me a review copy.
The
Tao Te Ching is the principal classic of Taoist philosophy. It has had an immense influence on Chinese thought since it was written around the 5th century BC, during the turbulent Warring States period of China's history. The
Tao Te Ching suggests how men and women can live in accordance with the Tao ("the Way", that which animates the universe) and in doing so survive, and perhaps even prosper, in times of hardship and peril.
There are many English translations of the Tao Te Ching. Some translators try to render the words and meaning of the original text as faithfully as possible. Others seek to interpret the work in a personal or modern way.
A retired philosophy professor, John Patterson focuses on what he describes as the "self-improvement" aspect of the Tao Te Ching, ideas that can help us grow spiritually, get along with each other, and lead good lives. His translation emphasizes the uplifting elements of the Tao Te Ching, while downplaying those parts that are morally ambiguous or that seem calculating and amoral.
For example, writing about statecraft, Patterson says that "Goodness in government is straightforwardness". Another translator, D C Lau renders this sentence as "In government it is order that matters"*.
Patterson's interpretation didn't gel with me, mainly because I tend towards Lau's take on the Tao Te Ching, that it is "a rather down-to-earth philosophy aimed at the mundane purpose of personal survival and political order". Patterson seems to miss what is a crucial idea in the Tao Te Ching - that we thrive when we align ourselves with the Tao, when we go with the cosmic flow rather than struggle against obstacles and fate.
Patterson writes clearly and in plain English. As a result, The Art of Peace is easy and pleasant to read. Some passages don't work, even as suggestions for self-improvement. "Contrive to be easygoing," Patterson writes, "work at not working". I wouldn't advise anybody to take this approach, especially during hard economic times. Work at not working and you could be fired from your job.
But other passages are well-crafted and thoughtful. "Others turn to us and we do not lord it over them" - a useful reminder that good leaders have the confidence to be gracious and humble. And politicians and government officials would do well to reflect on the idea that the essence of good government is straightforwardness.
* Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching (Penguin, 1963).
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