Taoism Today
Geographical Extent
Located in:
China (mainly Taiwan)
parts of North America
Practitioners
About 2,700,000 followers of Taoism
Located in:
China (mainly Taiwan)
parts of North America
Practitioners
About 2,700,000 followers of Taoism
Stereotypes
RELIGIOUS TAOISM vs. PHILOSOPHICAL TAOISM
People generally believe that there is both a philosophy and a separate ritual hierarchy in Taoism. These are distinguished as "religious" and "philosophical" Taoism. However, this distinction does not exist.
CHINESE TAOISM vs. WESTERN TAOISM
Some forms of Western-ified Taoist philosophy adds original, additional aspects to Taoism while removing much religious ideas. Forms of Western-ified Taoism do not contain as much content on Taoist gods, worship, and other spiritual practices.
Westerners often believe that Taoism does not concern deities and is purely based on abstract concept and forces. However, Taoism is not in any way like this and contains many elements reflecting that of other religions. This is shown by the presence of priests, the carrying out of religious rituals, and the belief of gods.
People generally believe that there is both a philosophy and a separate ritual hierarchy in Taoism. These are distinguished as "religious" and "philosophical" Taoism. However, this distinction does not exist.
CHINESE TAOISM vs. WESTERN TAOISM
Some forms of Western-ified Taoist philosophy adds original, additional aspects to Taoism while removing much religious ideas. Forms of Western-ified Taoism do not contain as much content on Taoist gods, worship, and other spiritual practices.
Westerners often believe that Taoism does not concern deities and is purely based on abstract concept and forces. However, Taoism is not in any way like this and contains many elements reflecting that of other religions. This is shown by the presence of priests, the carrying out of religious rituals, and the belief of gods.
