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Taoist-Inspired Principles for Sustainability Transitions: Beyond Anthropocentric Fixes and Rethinking Our Relationship with Nature

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  • Na Liang

    (The Research Institute for Sustainability Science and Technology, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—BarcelonaTech (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Jordi Segalas

    (The Research Institute for Sustainability Science and Technology, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya—BarcelonaTech (UPC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain)

Abstract

The magnitude and scale of the challenges ahead require fundamental sustainability transitions towards sustainable societies on an unprecedented level in human history. This paper argues that reflecting on the philosophical underpinnings of sustainability transitions and complementing the human–nature relationship with a more holistic and ecological perspective is necessary for the transition to a sustainable “humble world”. Using Taoist philosophy as an enabler, this paper explores the three principles of “interconnectedness and symbiosis”, “equality, balance and justice of all things” and “follow the Tzu-Jan and WuWei” to enrich sustainability transition studies and guide the construction for transition trajectories. By exploring the instrumental potential of Taoist-inspired principles in sustainability transitions, this paper provides a pre-paradigm complementary rationale for the “why” behind the “how” of achieving a sustainable future. The paper’s conclusions establish common ground for a transdisciplinary dialogue between Taoist philosophy and sustainability science (especially on sustainability transitions), strengthen the rationale for sustainability transitions, reveal transition commonalities compatible with Taoist philosophy, and add depth, richness, and inclusiveness to the cross-cultural knowledge base of sustainability transitions.

Suggested Citation

  • Na Liang & Jordi Segalas, 2024. "Taoist-Inspired Principles for Sustainability Transitions: Beyond Anthropocentric Fixes and Rethinking Our Relationship with Nature," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(14), pages 1-21, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:14:p:6165-:d:1438128
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    1. Na Liang & Jordi Segalas, 2025. "A Deep and Shallow Sustainability Intervention Framework: A Taoist-Inspired Approach to Systemic Sustainability Transitions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-42, June.
    2. Na Liang & Jordi Segalas, 2025. "A Transition Intervention Point System: A Taoist-Inspired Multidimensional Framework for Sustainability Transitions," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(11), pages 1-39, June.

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