Trying Not to Try audiobook cover - Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity

Trying Not to Try

Ancient China, Modern Science, and the Power of Spontaneity

Edward Slingerland

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Categories:
PhilosophyMindfulness & Happiness

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Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 7
What does the concept of 'wu-wei' fundamentally represent regarding the relationship between the mind and body?
  • A. The complete separation of the rational mind from the instinctive body.
  • B. The union of the conscious mind and the physical body to act as one.
  • C. The strict dominance of the prefrontal cortex over physical actions.
  • D. The suppression of physical desires to achieve purely intellectual clarity.
Question 2 of 7
How does the Chinese concept of wu-wei differ from the Western psychological concept of 'flow' described by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi?
  • A. Flow requires constant challenge, whereas wu-wei encourages moving through life with ease.
  • B. Flow is driven entirely by the unconscious mind, whereas wu-wei requires strict conscious focus.
  • C. Flow is only achievable through physical activity, whereas wu-wei is purely a meditative state.
  • D. Flow results in 'de' (charisma), whereas wu-wei results in complete social isolation.
Question 3 of 7
According to Confucianism, what is the primary method for a person to attain the state of wu-wei?
  • A. By abandoning all societal rules and returning to a raw state of human nature.
  • B. By doing absolutely nothing and letting natural instincts take over completely.
  • C. By using strict rituals, education, and conscious repetition to train the subconscious.
  • D. By realizing they already possess wu-wei and simply nourishing it with a teacher's help.
Question 4 of 7
What did Laozi mean when he advised people to think more with their 'bellies' and less with their 'eyes'?
  • A. People should focus on improving their physical health rather than acquiring intellectual knowledge.
  • B. People should be guided by basic, simple desires rather than coveting unnecessary things they see.
  • C. People should trust their gut instincts when judging the moral character of others.
  • D. People should consume more food to achieve a state of physical lethargy and mental stillness.
Question 5 of 7
According to the philosopher Mencius, what role does imagination play in attaining wu-wei?
  • A. It helps us envision a perfect society so we can create strict laws to govern it.
  • B. It allows us to dream of the Way of Heaven, which distracts us from earthly suffering.
  • C. It helps downregulate the prefrontal cortex so we can experience a runner's high.
  • D. It is used to project and expand existing virtues, such as extending empathy for animals toward humans.
Question 6 of 7
Why do texts like the Zhuangzi encourage people to move beyond the dichotomy of right and wrong?
  • A. Because labeling things as right or wrong prevents the flexibility and calmness needed to attain wu-wei.
  • B. Because ancient society's laws were fundamentally incorrect and needed to be completely ignored.
  • C. Because morality is solely determined by a ruler's 'de' (power), not by individual judgment.
  • D. Because the conscious mind is biologically incapable of understanding complex moral dilemmas.
Question 7 of 7
What does the book identify as an essential prerequisite for successfully practicing any of the Chinese strategies to attain wu-wei?
  • A. A comprehensive, academic understanding of ancient texts.
  • B. Complete isolation from modern society and its technological distractions.
  • C. Sincerity and dedication to a higher purpose.
  • D. The physical ability to meditate for extended periods without food or water.

Trying Not to Try — Full Chapter Overview

Trying Not to Try Summary & Overview

Trying Not to Try (2014) is your guide to ancient Chinese philosophy. These blinks explain why you should allow life to manifest itself to you without forcing things to happen. They also introduce ways to live a less stressful life.

Who Should Listen to Trying Not to Try?

  • Young people who feel burdened by the need to accomplish something in life
  • Readers with an interest in ancient Chinese philosophy

About the Author: Edward Slingerland

Edward Slingerland is an academic and author who specializes in cognitive science and Chinese thought. He has previously authored What Science Offers the Humanities.

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