Daoist
►The philosopher Laozi offered an
alternative to Confucianism.
►He urged rulers to be patient, selfless,
and have concern for all creatures.
►Laozi advocated a retreat from society
into nature where individuals could attune with the
Dao, or cosmic force.
§Some
of his followers, particularly among the shi, followed
Laozi's stress on meditation.
§Others
mixed his ideas with magic and eroticism and sought immortality.