Influence In The Society

Taoism was founded in Shundi (an emperor) roughly around 126-144 AD. Taoism had a history of over 2,000 years. The religion of Taoism and the thought of taoists is an extension of the latter.3 In its early days, Tao was widely accepted by the upper-class society and its aim was to obtain longevity or immortality. Under the encouragement of taoist experts and emperors and kings, a famous movement in the history was initiated to seek immortality.

 

During the dawn of its popularity, Taoism was a high level culture and widely pursued the upper-class society. A a consequence many leaders of Taoism had gained respect for imperial government. Since the 12th century, Taoism began to decline due to attitude change of the government as well as revival of other religions. This is why Taoism began to spread to the lower-class society and its witchcraft elements facilitated its influence on the folk society.

 

Since the occurrence of this, Taoism on folk society had become stronger and more influential. This influence spread from lower class as people had vulgar faith in their religions due to illiteracy, The doctrine of Taoism was then modifies to cater for the large quantity of followers. During this gain, Taoists were low of quality and new little about the doctrine. They would only carry out some normal traits and traditions of Taoism. The norm of Taoism began to decline and develop into something different. Superstitious activities in Chinese folk society began to develop such as, fortune telling and lots-drawings.

 

It is evident that the practice of taoism was not only influential in early Taoism but it has influenced the modern Chinese folk society as similar characteristics of taoism have been adapted into the culture of Chinese society today. While Taoism may not have been internationally influential (6.4% of population identify themselves with Taoism), the adaption has evolved Chinese folk society.

 

 

 

3 China culture, ‘Taoism in China’, retrieved 19 March 2014, http://www1.chinaculture.org/library/2008-02/04/content_24194.htm