earticle

한국어

This paper seeks to illuminate the perspective on ‘desire’(欲) presented in the Laozi from a viewpoint distinct from existing metaphysical transcendence or ascetic perspectives. Specifically, it aims to thoroughly reinterpret the concept of ‘desire’ as expressed in the Laozi text from a thoroughly realistic and rational perspective. This paper focuses on the concept of ‘desire’(欲), which corresponds to the modern notion of ‘desire’ we commonly use today. By analyzing the usage of terms like ‘desire’(欲), ‘non-desire’(不欲), and ‘desirelessness’(無欲) in the Laozi, we can understand the following: First, in ancient China, ‘desire’ was primarily understood as an object to be fulfilled with, not as an object of transcendence or asceticism. This perspective is common to early texts including the Analects and is equally true of the Laozi. Second, the characteristic approach to desire in the Laozi reveals a view that ‘desire’ is controllable and, moreover, should be controlled. Third, it aims to clarify that the attitude and methods for dealing with ‘desire’ are highly rational, strategic, and pragmatic. In this sense, the Laozi’s view of ‘desire’ is not a transcendental, metaphysical discourse but a practical, political one that needs to be illuminated from a rational perspective.