Which description best captures Taoist views on governance?

Which description best captures Taoist views on governance?

• A. Rulers should impose harsh laws
• B. Government should be expansive and controlling
• C. Good government could become oppressive if it interferes too much
• D. Rulers should fear the people

Answer: (C)

In Taoist governance, ruling with restraint and aligning with the Dao is valued. The idea of wu wei, or ruling by not forcing outcomes, means government should be light-touch and unobtrusive. When a ruler interferes too much, it disturbs the natural balance, breeds resistance, and can feel oppressive to the people. So, the description that good government could become oppressive if it interferes too much best captures Taoist thinking. Harsh laws, expansive control, or rulers who fear the people run counter to this spirit. Taoism emphasizes simplicity, humility, and harmony with the way things are, rather than heavy-handed rule.

In Taoist governance, ruling with restraint and aligning with the Dao is valued. The idea of wu wei, or ruling by not forcing outcomes, means government should be light-touch and unobtrusive. When a ruler interferes too much, it disturbs the natural balance, breeds resistance, and can feel oppressive to the people. So, the description that good government could become oppressive if it interferes too much best captures Taoist thinking.

Harsh laws, expansive control, or rulers who fear the people run counter to this spirit. Taoism emphasizes simplicity, humility, and harmony with the way things are, rather than heavy-handed rule.