What the I Ching can teach us about peaceful equanimity in a rapidly changing world

Abstract

AbstractThis work explores how the I Ching (易經), or Book of Change, as an ancient wisdom text can aid in the development of peaceful equanimity, an important skill given modernity's rapidly accelerating pace of change where processes of globalization have exacerbated a sense of loss of control and climate change demands a more holistic and ecological understanding of well‐being. The I Ching is a layered text that both predates and informs Confucianism, Daoism, and Chan Buddhism. Its relational focus contributes to the philosophic syncretism of these three teachings that constitute traditional Chinese worldviews. Its consistent advice focuses on understanding how to deal with change by exercising patience, respect, equanimity, and emotional intelligence. Given China's enormous role today, this work promotes a deeper appreciation and understanding for traditional Chinese values that can strengthen international relations wherein ecological and social justice form the foundation for well‐being.