Ancient Confucian and Taoist Ideas on Life and Suicide in the Contemporary Setting

TEY Shi Bin(郑诗傧)

《Malaysian Journal of Chinese Studies》 8卷1期 (2019/06) Pp. 45-56

https://doi.org/10.6993/MJCS.201906_8(1).0004

摘要

Confucianism and Taoism are China's ancient but still relevant schools of thought with more than two thousand years of history. The implications of their teachings on contemporary society have often been a subject of scholarly discussions. In the constantly changing scenarios of today, these teachings should be interpreted in the context of the social conditions of the day. The march of technological advancement is having an impact on modern civilization. Among the effects of this impact are the pressure of modern living and the rise of emotional stress and anxiety among both the young and old. Unmitigated emotional pressures lead to depression and uncertainties and, in extreme cases, to suicidal behaviour. Suicide is becoming a common problem today. Specialists in psychology, psychiatry and sociology have attempted to prescribe solutions to curb suicidal tendencies. This study delves into the teachings of Chinese philosophies to explore the meaning of life in Confucian and Taoist thoughts of the pre-Qin era. The purpose is to seek insights on bolstering one's mental strength and broadening one's horizon to better face the problems of modern living and to thwart suicidal thoughts.

關鍵字

Suicide prevention ； value of life ； Confucianism ； Taoism ； social implications