Edward Slingerland Books
Edward Slingerland is a professor of philosophy and Asian studies at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on early Chinese thought, cognitive science, and the relationship between science and the humanities.
Known for: Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity
Books by Edward Slingerland
Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity
In this book, Edward Slingerland explores the ancient Chinese concept of wu-wei, or effortless action, and its relevance to modern life. Drawing on insights from philosophy, cognitive science, and psychology, he examines how spontaneity and flow can lead to greater success, happiness, and authenticity. The work bridges Eastern wisdom and Western scientific understanding, offering practical guidance on how to cultivate a state of natural ease in everyday activities.
Read SummaryKey Insights from Edward Slingerland
The Paradox of Effort and Spontaneity
Let me start by acknowledging the paradox directly. We value spontaneity, yet we routinely strive for it. We want to be genuine yet fear being judged; we want to perform well yet worry that thinking too much will sabotage us. Classical Chinese thinkers confronted the same dilemma over 2,000 years ag...
From Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity
Wu-wei and the Ancient Chinese Vision of Effortless Action
At the heart of Chinese philosophy lies wu-wei. Both Confucianism and Daoism treat it as an ideal of personal and social harmony. For Confucius, wu-wei was the crown of moral cultivation. The true gentleman, shaped through years of ritual and empathy, reaches a stage where ethical behavior flows fro...
From Trying Not to Try: The Art and Science of Spontaneity
About Edward Slingerland
Edward Slingerland is a professor of philosophy and Asian studies at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on early Chinese thought, cognitive science, and the relationship between science and the humanities. He is known for his interdisciplinary approach to understanding human be...
Read more
Edward Slingerland is a professor of philosophy and Asian studies at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on early Chinese thought, cognitive science, and the relationship between science and the humanities. He is known for his interdisciplinary approach to understanding human be...
Edward Slingerland is a professor of philosophy and Asian studies at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on early Chinese thought, cognitive science, and the relationship between science and the humanities. He is known for his interdisciplinary approach to understanding human behavior and cultural evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Edward Slingerland is a professor of philosophy and Asian studies at the University of British Columbia. His research focuses on early Chinese thought, cognitive science, and the relationship between science and the humanities.
Read Edward Slingerland's books in 15 minutes
Get AI-powered summaries with key insights from 1 book by Edward Slingerland.