Philosophy East and West

Abstract:

This study argues that the Lao-Zhuang Daoist account of nature provides what can be called (anachronistically) the "Non-Naturalistic Fallacy." "Qualities" and "values" are the products of interaction. "Intrinsic value" does not exist. For the Lao-Zhuang Daoist, committing the "Non-Naturalistic Fallacy" predisposes persons to creating extraneous suff ering in human society. In particular, committing the fallacy bifurcates the experience of nature in such a way that it becomes possible to justify "any means necessary" conduct such as war.