On The "Singleness" Of Chuang Tzu

Compared with other pre-Qin thinkers, Chuang-tzu's philosophy reflects the concerns of the individual. Based on the text, we can see its rich principles of individuality by studying the concept of "singleness". Compared with the Confucian ritual, Chuang-tzu uses "singleness" as the existence of the individual, showing much more attention on the individual. From the ontological view, "Te" is the specific requirements of the individual existence, and "Tao" is the essential requirements. As the bases of diversified existence forms, "Te" makes the individuals different from each other, which is called "particular nature". The difference and the particular nature among the individuals reflect the value of individual existence. "Singleness" implies the independence of individuals, and according to Chuang-tzu, it primarily refers to the independence of the individual spirit. Individual's independent spirit leads to one's pursuit of free spirit realm, which is called "Leisure". From the individual's emotional level, "singleness" as the existence of the individual, implies the tendency of loneliness. In the real social relationships, "singleness" does not mean one's separation from groups. Furthermore, dealing with the relations with others, Chuang-tzu attaches great importance to individuality but makes some ignorance on individual sociality.