Zhuangzi: Skepticism About Self and Happiness

Zhuangzi, Chapter 18 (Zhì Lè 至樂):

吾不能知其所謂我，吾所謂我者，非我也。世之所謂樂者，吾不知其樂也。
吾所謂樂者，非樂也。彼有所以爲喜，而我無與焉；彼有所以爲非，而我無與焉。
夫彼與我共居於天與地之間，其形也異，其德也異，彼以爲人之所不欲惡，彼惡之。
其惡之者亦以惡之，惡之亦以惡之。其有所不惡，而吾無與焉。
夫子且惡以爲惡者乎？

The passage from "Zhuangzi", Chapter 18 ("Zhì Lè" 至樂), offers a profound reflection on the nature of self, happiness, and the subjective lens through which we perceive the world. It challenges conventional notions of identity and joy, inviting readers to question the assumptions that underpin their understanding of these concepts. The text reads:

“I cannot know what is meant by ‘me.’ What I call ‘me’ is not ‘me.’
What the world calls happiness, I do not know as happiness.
What I call happiness is not happiness.
They have reasons for their joy, but I have no part in it.
They have reasons for their disapproval, but I have no part in it.
They and I dwell together between heaven and earth,
yet our forms are different, our virtues are different.
What they consider undesirable, they reject.
Those who reject it also reject it because they find it undesirable.
What they do not reject, I have no part in.
So, Master, do you reject what they reject as undesirable?”

This quote above is a modern English interpretation of a passage from the "Zhuangzi", an ancient Chinese text attributed to the philosopher Zhuang Zhou, commonly known as Zhuangzi. This particular passage is from Chapter 18, titled "Perfect Happiness" (Zhì Lè 至樂). It was posted on various websites, so we decided to delve into it further by confirming it's origin and meaning.

At its core, this passage delves into the relativity of perception and the fluidity of identity. Zhuangzi begins by questioning the very notion of the self, suggesting that what we call “me” is not an absolute or fixed entity but rather a construct shaped by our experiences, thoughts, and societal influences. This idea resonates deeply with modern psychological and philosophical discussions about the self, particularly in the context of mindfulness and self-awareness. In a world where people often define themselves through external achievements, social roles, or material possessions, Zhuangzi’s words remind us that the “self” is far more elusive and dynamic than we might assume. It invites us to explore who we are beyond the labels and narratives we attach to ourselves.

The passage also challenges the conventional understanding of happiness ("lè" 樂). Zhuangzi suggests that what society deems as happiness may not align with true, intrinsic joy. In today’s fast-paced, achievement-oriented culture, many people equate happiness with external success—wealth, status, or recognition. Yet, Zhuangzi implies that such happiness is contingent and fleeting, tied to external validation rather than inner contentment. His perspective encourages us to seek a deeper, more authentic form of joy, one that arises from within and is not dependent on societal approval or material gain. This idea is particularly relevant in the modern era, where the pursuit of external markers of success often leads to stress, burnout, and a sense of emptiness.

Zhuangzi further explores the theme of subjectivity by highlighting the differences in how individuals perceive and react to the world. He observes that people’s likes and dislikes are shaped by their unique perspectives and values, which may not align with our own. This insight is a powerful reminder of the diversity of human experience and the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others. In a globalized world where people from different cultures, backgrounds, and belief systems interact daily, Zhuangzi’s message encourages us to embrace this diversity rather than imposing our own standards or judgments on others.

The chapter also touches on the idea of non-attachment, a central theme in Daoist philosophy. Zhuangzi suggests that by detaching ourselves from societal definitions of happiness and selfhood, we can achieve a more profound sense of freedom and peace. This does not mean rejecting the world or its pleasures outright, but rather cultivating an inner detachment that allows us to engage with life without being enslaved by its demands or expectations. In modern terms, this could be interpreted as a call to balance ambition with inner stillness, to pursue goals without becoming overly attached to outcomes, and to find contentment in the present moment.

In applying Zhuangzi’s wisdom to contemporary life, we might consider how his insights can help us navigate the complexities of modern existence. For instance, in a world dominated by social media, where people often curate idealized versions of their lives, his teachings remind us to look beyond appearances and seek authenticity. They encourage us to question societal norms and expectations, to define happiness on our own terms, and to cultivate a sense of self that is rooted in inner awareness rather than external validation.

Ultimately, this passage from "Zhuangzi" invites us to embrace a more fluid and open-minded approach to life. It challenges us to question our assumptions, to appreciate the diversity of human experience, and to seek a deeper, more enduring form of happiness. By doing so, we can move closer to the Daoist ideal of living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe, free from the constraints of rigid thinking and societal pressures. For a Western audience, these ancient teachings offer timeless wisdom that is as relevant today as it was over two millennia ago, providing a roadmap for navigating the complexities of modern life with grace, authenticity, and inner peace.

Qi Journal 2025