Question 1

Define the Dao-or explain why we cannot define the Dao, yet can experience it.

Accepted Answer

The Dao, also spelled as Tao, is a concept in Daoism (also spelled as Taoism) that refers to the fundamental principle that is the source of everything in the universe. It is often described as the way or path that underlies all of existence. The Dao is considered to be beyond human understanding and cannot be fully defined or explained in words.

According to Daoist philosophy, the Dao is the ultimate reality that is both transcendent and immanent, and it is the source of all things. It is the underlying order and harmony of the universe, and it is the natural way of the cosmos. The Dao is often associated with concepts such as spontaneity, simplicity, and the unity of opposites.

While the Dao cannot be fully defined or explained, it can be experienced through practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and living in harmony with nature. Daoist teachings emphasize the importance of aligning oneself with the Dao, and this can be achieved through self-cultivation, inner reflection, and following the natural flow of life.

In essence, the Dao is something that is to be experienced rather than defined. It is a concept that transcends language and rational thought, and it is something that can be felt and understood on a deeper, intuitive level. By living in accordance with the Dao, one can cultivate a sense of inner peace, harmony, and balance in life.

Question 2

The notion of wu wei is

Accepted Answer

A)   social responsibility.
B)   filial piety.
C)   no unnecessary action.
D)   education and discipline. C

Question 3

Explain wen, and describe how it shows itself in practice.

Accepted Answer

Wen is a Chinese concept that refers to the virtue of civility, respect, and empathy. It is an important aspect of Confucian philosophy and is considered essential for maintaining harmonious relationships within society. Wen is demonstrated in practice through polite and respectful behavior towards others, showing empathy and understanding, and maintaining a sense of decorum and propriety in social interactions. This can be seen in various aspects of Chinese culture, such as the emphasis on proper etiquette, the value placed on humility and modesty, and the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships within the community. In everyday life, wen is displayed through courteous and considerate behavior, showing respect for elders and authority figures, and striving to create a peaceful and harmonious environment in all interactions. Overall, wen is a fundamental principle in Chinese society that guides individuals in their interactions with others and promotes a sense of unity and cooperation within the community.

Question 4

Explain yang and yin using examples as necessary to illustrate your explanation.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Explain yang and yin using examples as...

Question 5

After the Bible, the _____ is the world's most frequently translated book.

Accepted Answer

A)   Book of Changes (Yijing, I Ching) 
B)   Book of Poetry (Shijing, Shih Ching) 
C)   Zhuangzi
D)   Daodejing

Question 6

Which of the following Confucian virtues refers to appropriate action, ritual, propriety, and etiquette?

Accepted Answer

A)   ren
B)   xiao
C)   shu
D)   li

Question 7

In the context of the virtues most prized by Confucians, the term _____ means "culture," and it includes all the arts that are associated with civilization.

Accepted Answer

A)   shu
B)   xiao
C)   wen
D)   li

Question 8

Complex Confucian etiquette shows respect to others, makes social interactions predictable, and

Accepted Answer

A)   reflects the social position of its participants.
B)   leads to the virtue of humility.
C)   generates much anxiety and resentment.
D)   is the major reason for the development of Confucianism as a religious system.

Question 9

The man who dreamed of being a butterfly was

Accepted Answer

A)   Laozi (Lao Tzu) .
B)   Zhuangzi (Chuang Tzu) .
C)   Zhu Xi.
D)   Mengzi (Mencius) .

Question 10

In the context of the Five Classics of the Confucian literature, _____ is an anthology of supposedly historical material about kings from earliest times up until the early Zhou (Chou) period (c. 1100-256 BCE).

Accepted Answer

A)   Liji, Li Chi
B)   Yijing, I Ching
C)   Shijing, Shih Ching
D)   Shujing, Shu Ching

Question 11

Which great scholar developed a complete philosophy of reality, now called Neo-Confucianism?

Accepted Answer

A)   Mozi (Mo Tzu) 
B)   Xunzi (Hsun Tzu) 
C)   Zhu Xi (Chu Hsi) 
D)   Dong Zhongshu (Tun Chung-shu)

Question 12

Describe what Mencius brought to Confucianism by contrasting his thought with that of Confucius.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Describe what Mencius brought to Confucianism by...

Question 13

Black caps are the signature headwear for

Accepted Answer

A)   Daoist priests.
B)   members of the Legalist school of philosophy.
C)   actors in the theatrical programs performed during the Jiao rite of renewal.
D)   teachers of Confucian rituals.

Question 14

The most fundamental relationship for Confucius seems to have been that between

Accepted Answer

A)   friends.
B)   father and son.
C)   elder brother and younger brother.
D)   husband and wife.

Question 15

In the context of the Five Classics of the Confucian literature, _____ is a collection of three hundred poems of the Zhou period, once believed to have been selected by Confucius.

Accepted Answer

A)   Shijing, Shih Ching
B)   Yijing, I Ching
C)   Liji, Li Chi
D)   Shujing, Shu Ching

Question 16

The ideal of benevolence or "human-heartedness" in Chinese is a written character made up of which pictographs?

Accepted Answer

A)   two hearts, one beside the other
B)   a person under a roof
C)   a mother and a child
D)   a person and the number two

Question 17

Daoism likely established monasteries and temples

Accepted Answer

A)   to protect itself from Confucian influence.
B)   to guard its secret practices.
C)   in order to more closely follow the teachings of the Daodejing.
D)   as a result of Buddhism's influence on it.

Question 18

Which of the following Confucian virtues can be described as empathy, consideration for others, and humaneness?

Accepted Answer

A)   shu
B)   li
C)   ren
D)   xiao

Question 19

The Daodejing is written in approximately how many Chinese characters?

Accepted Answer

A)   100
B)   1,000
C)   5,000
D)   25,000

Question 20

Concerning the origins of Daoism, scholars today point to

Accepted Answer

A)   the historical founder, Laozi.
B)   the Yijing, the Book of Changes.
C)   a multiplicity of possible sources that coalesced into a movement.
D)   the legendary Jade Emperor.

Exam 6: Daoism and Confucianism