"Tao Imitates Nature":The Dual Differentiation and Inherent Unity of the Ultimate Origin of the Universe
"Tao imitates nature"(道法自 然)is one of the core propositions in the Laozi.According to the traditional mainstream opinion,"nature"only indicates the nature of the Tao.However,"nature"actually refers to things.This means that things will obtain an ideal state of survival which is based on their own nature without any interference.The"Pu"(朴)or"virtue"of things marks the differentiation of the ultimate origin,just like the Tao.In this regard,the literal meaning of"Tao imitates nature"is:the Tao does not violate the nature of things,i.e.,a significant fact as a result of an essential unity of the Tao and the Pu of things in their origin.It is the dual differentiation of such an origin in its own creative activity that sets up the dual existence of the Tao and things and in the meanwhile creates their relationship.This relationship corresponds to the very opposition between"non action"(无为)and"naturalness"(自然),the latter of which characterizes the fundamental structure of Laozi's political philosophy.However,the aforesaid emphasis on the originality and spontaneity of things also leads to a virtualization of the Tao,i.e.,a logical progression which is presented in the subsequent development of Taoist thought.
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