Definition
An unforced mode of action, adjusted to the circumstances and skillful enough not to add unnecessary tension to the process.
Wúwei can describe the government that avoids excessive intervention, the expert gesture that has become fluid or a conduct that is granted to transformations. He does not recommend inaction before any injustice.
To be retained
- Remove unnecessary effort
- Prepare before letting it work
- Observe conditions
- Do not confuse fluidity and passivity
Origin of the term and context
Wú means "not, absence" and "do, act, intervene". Translations "not-act" or "action without effort" remain partial and must be read in the context of the texts.
Why does it matter?
Psychology may study expert automation or fluidity, but these concepts are not identical to wúwei. Reconciliation can enlighten without establishing equivalence.
- Remove unnecessary effort
- Prepare before letting it work
- Observe conditions
- Do not confuse fluidity and passivity
How can it be explored or practised?
- Identify an action complicated by control
- Prepare the environment rather than force
- Test a simpler gesture
- Take firm action when protection requires
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Non-action is not abandonment.
- He doesn't justify negligence.
- Spontaneity is not wise.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Dào Dé Jīng: Government and non-coercive action.
- Zhuangzi: the craftsman's ease of work.
- Modern readings: flow and simplicity, analogies not to be confused with the text.
To go further
- Dào Dé Jīng
- Trying Not to Try — Edward Slingerland