This beautifully illustrated book introduces the reader to the history and development of Taoism, one of the great religious and philosophical movements in Chinese thought. Chapters include discussions on the concept of the Tao (or Way), the symbolism of Yin-Yang, the relationship between Taoism and the natural world and the work and philosophy of the leading Taoist sages. The last section of the book deals with Taoist art, the symbolism of plants and animals, the Taoist garden and the relationship of Taoism with Buddhism and Hinduism. This edited edition of selected chapters from J.C. Cooper's writings on Taoism contains 118 stunning colour illustrations and includes an index.

Author Biography

Jean C. Cooper was born in Northern China, where she spent much of her childhood. She attended school in both China and England and studied Philosophy at St Andrew's University. She lectured on Comparative Religion, Philosophy, and Symbolism, wrote several books and articles on Taoism and was a regular contributor to the journal Studies in Comparative Religion. She died in 2003.