Book

The Propensity of Things: Toward a History of Efficacy in China

by François Jullien

Summary

François Jullien's "Vital Nourishment" philosophically investigates how to "feed life" or nourish it. The book draws on the early Chinese thinker Zhuangzi to examine concepts central to this pursuit. Jullien focuses on the interconnectedness of breath, energy, and immanence as key elements in achieving vital nourishment.

Readers will engage with a philosophical inquiry that uses historical Chinese thought to understand the principles of sustaining and enhancing life. The exploration of breath, energy, and immanence offers a specific lens through which to consider the practical and theoretical aspects of living well, according to Zhuangzi's philosophy as interpreted by Jullien.

Key concepts

  • Feed lifeThe central aim of nourishing existence.
  • Nourish itTo sustain and enhance the quality of life.
  • BreathA fundamental element explored in relation to vitality.
  • EnergyA core concept linked to the maintenance of life.
  • ImmanenceA state or quality of existing within, explored as part of vital nourishment.

From the book

Description: A philosophical inquiry into how to "feed life," or nourish it, draws from early Chinese thinker Zhuanghi to explore notions of breath, energy, and immanence.
Snippet: A philosophical inquiry into how to "feed life," or nourish it, draws from early Chinese thinker Zhuanghi to explore notions of breath, energy, and immanence.

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