Abstract

In this paper I argue that Classical Daoist philosophy, especially Zhuangzi’s worldview, offers a unique understanding of place. For classical Daoists, existing in a place puts a creature in a position that results in a certain limited perspective. Daoist physiology, by means of meditation, teaches people to “walk both ways” (Zhuangzi 4/2/40, Watson p. 41). Walking both ways provides a new position in their placement thereby expanding peoples’ perspectives. As Laozi says, “we can know the world without going out the door; we can see the way-making of nature without looking out the window …” (Laozi, 47). With the right training that activates their neurophysiology, Daoists develop the ability to take different positions to discover new perspectives regarding their place in the world. These new perspectives also allow them to gain insights into the position and perspective of other creatures and people.