theory of chaos
"For all men strive to grasp what they do not know, while none strive to grasp what they already know; and all strive to discredit what they do not excel in, while none strive to discredit what they do excel in. This is why there is chaos." —CHUANG TZU
posted by KJ's muse at 3:36 p.m.
2 Comments:
I think Chuang Tzu is considered to be Lao Tzu's best pupil and I enjoyed reading him when I was younger. Maybe I'm becoming dimmer with age, but the first part of the quote I can't understand. Is there a difference between knowing and grasping in English, which makes sense in this context?
Oh, the irony of life. When you begin to think you understand something, senility sets in.
October 24, 2006 4:16 a.m.
Is there a difference between knowing and grasping in English, which makes sense in this context?
Well, not really, since both terms refer to understanding, although I tend to think of grasping as implying a greater comprehension. Maybe Chuang Tzu is saying that while we may know or understand something intellectually, we have to reach a deeper and fuller understanding that will affect our actions as well. Or maybe he means that we take for granted what we think we know. Or maybe it's a reference to already having the knowledge we need within us? Hey, I'm getting confused now too! Snort.
October 25, 2006 8:07 p.m.
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