Anti-intellectual? or Knowledge By Embodiment? Hints from “The Butcher’s Knife”
Author：Yueh-chang Tsai
Abstract / PDF Download
Generally speaking, when it comes to Taoism’s attitude toward knowledge, people usually think that Taoism doesn’t grant knowledge positive value and meanings. However, it is an obvious fact that artistry fables related to bodies and knowledge appear frequently in works of Zhuangzi. It seems that even though knowledge doesn’t always involve the highest level, it is absolutely necessary in life. Through these impeccable performances of techniques, undoubtedly, Zhuangzi confirms knowledge occupies an intermediary stage that can’t be ignored. The philosophy of these labor professions of artistry, centered on bodies, (Qi as bodies) emphasizes the interconnection between practicing details of movements (Hearts, Hands, Tools, Objects) and immersive experiences that support each other, and uses it as the model of being alive in the world.