R: As I'm continuing to read I'm beginning to understand more the relationship between transcendentalism and Taoism. In Mr. P's American lit class last year I was assigned transcendentalism as my literary movement. As a researched I began coming across a lot of references to Taoism and eastern philosophy however I never really took the time to trace it back. In a particular passage that I am currently reading the author happened to mention spontaneity and simplicity both in the same paragraph. These two ideas are both basic principles of the transcendentalist as well. I also recall that transcendentalist believed in an "Over Soul" or spirit that controls the universe type of thing which seems strikingly similar to the Tao or "the way". Another similar characteristic is that in Taoism it is important no to go against the laws of nature because they have already been set for us and it is not our place to disrupt these rules. Transcendentalists choose their feelings over reasoning which seems as if they are following natures rules as well. By managing to not over think a situation and go with what you feel you are abiding by the laws nature sets for us. It just seems very interesting how closely related they are. At this moment I am very much wishing I could relate Taoism back to world history more because I feel like the beginnings of Taoism and Transcendentalism may have resulted from similar dissatisfaction with society and even the current prevailing government. So far I am very satisfied with the relevance of this book to my past studies.
This book is also easily tying me back to world history as I mentioned before. It has been a brilliant refresher on eastern culture and religion.
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