Talk to Sinologists: A U.S. professor's journey from teen fascination to philosophical insight

Editor's note:

In the CGTN interview series "East Encounters West: Talk to Sinologists," Misha Tadd, associate professor at Nankai University's College of Philosophy and director of the Global Laozegetics Research Center, explores his deep connection with the "Tao Te Ching." The series itself underscores the unique blend of personal passion and academic rigor among various sinologists and translators. It also examines the broader implications of their studies, suggesting that traditional Chinese philosophy could offer valuable insights into global challenges and help promote harmonious coexistence worldwide.

The first episode of this series focuses on Professor Tadd's discovery of the Tao Te Ching during his teenage years, a pivotal moment that ignited his passion for Taoism and influenced his academic trajectory. Divided into two parts, the episode delves into different facets of Taoist philosophy. Tadd also explores the intricacies of translating this ancient text and its extensive international influence, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of introducing Taoist concepts to a global audience.

Early encounters and lifelong fascination

Professor Tadd never imagined that his first encounter with the Tao Te Ching at the age of 14 would shape his entire career. He recalls the moment when he stumbled upon the Tao Te Ching during a routine visit to the library for a school project. Tadd immediately found the book compelling, with its large calligraphy photos standing out among the limited selection on Eastern philosophy in his small-town library.

The aesthetic appeal of the book was just the beginning. The contents resonated deeply with him, aligning with his experiences and values rooted in a childhood spent in the natural surroundings of western Massachusetts.

"The first line of the Tao Te Ching says, 'The Dao that can be spoken is not the eternal Dao.' This paradoxical nature and the wordplay involved make Taoism intriguing and help shake up conventional thinking," explained Tadd. He emphasized the philosophy's ability to inspire new perspectives on life and the cosmos, which was a fresh breath of air to his young mind.

Promoting Taoism in the digital age

Describing his journey as a beautiful accident, Tadd highlighted how these early experiences with the Tao Te Ching led him to pursue Chinese language studies in high school and eventually shaped his career. He expressed concern, however, that such serendipitous discoveries are becoming rare in today's digital world, where interactions are often superficial and fleeting.

When discussing his role as a sinologist and how he explains his work to friends and family, Tadd mentioned that while there are enjoyable aspects of Taoism, such as its playful wordplay and unconventional ideas that provoke new ways of thinking about life and the world, describing Taoism can be difficult because of its intricate and mysterious nature. Nevertheless, he remains committed to fostering understanding and appreciation of Taoist philosophy through his research and the initiatives of the Global Laozegetics Research Center.

"The goal of the center is not just about promoting Taoism but creating a platform where scholars, artists and writers can collaborate and explore the rich philosophical landscape of this ancient wisdom," said Tadd. This collaborative approach extends beyond academic circles, aiming to engage a broader audience and demonstrate the relevance of Taoist thought in contemporary society.

A classic that speaks across time

Professor Tadd also discussed what makes the Tao Te Ching a classic, emphasizing that its value lies not just in its age but in its timeless relevance. It continues to be valuable and relevant, which is evident from the increasing number of translations – over 2,052 in 97 languages – and its influence on figures worldwide, such as Leo Tolstoy.

The simplicity of the language used in the Tao Te Ching effectively communicates intricate concepts in a straightforward manner. This simplicity, according to Professor Tadd, is a key factor contributing to its widespread appeal.

In terms of promoting Taoist philosophy, Professor Tadd views his role more as primarily facilitating cross-cultural dialogue and understanding rather than actively promoting the ideas. He also discusses the importance of media in reaching a wider audience and creating a platform for people to interact across languages and cultures.

Overall, the first part of the interview offers a glimpse into Professor Tadd's personal bond with the Tao Te Ching and his endeavors to cultivate a broader appreciation of Taoist philosophy worldwide. It highlights the enduring wisdom of Taoism and its capacity to foster harmony and mutual understanding in our interconnected global society.

In the next part of this episode, we'll delve into the dissemination of the Tao Te Ching in the West, explore Sino-American cultural exchanges, and examine the significance of the Tao Te Ching in international relations. Stay tuned for more insights.

Image designers: Yu Peng, Zhang Tao

Script and text writer: Zhong Xia

Video editor: Qi Jianqiang