Coexistence of harmony and freedom in the Zhuangzi

Abstract

Regardless of the diverse interpretations, the concepts of harmony and freedom often appear contradictory. This thesis begins by providing a general description of freedom and harmony, followed by an analysis of the potential tensions between them. It then elaborates on the specific content of harmony and freedom in Zhuangzi’s philosophy. Zhuangzian harmony can be described as “collaborative individuals harmonize by responding to others to achieve flourishing,” while Zhuangzian freedom is defined as “an individual is free with ming (命) to pursue one’s intention.” Finally, this thesis elucidates how the tensions between harmony and freedom in Zhuangzi are resolved and how harmony and freedom can mutually enhance each other.