This course has three dimensions to explore: the depth of the relation of human beings and the nature, current events and Dao De Jing, and Dao and nature. Class portion will be divided into three parts: 1/3 of lecture of selected Dao De Jing texts, 1/3 of students’ presentation, the intercultural elements of language, culture and thought. Final deliverables for the course are a wrap-up research analysis paper of 12 to 15 page (or its equivalence of the content in the format of digital media integration), and a final presentation will be delivered in Irvine Auditorium.

A key research topic is concluded and developed after the first 8 weeks, and further develop an individualization research project related to your major using insights from Dao De Jing. The Individualization Research Project curriculum will be devised in a way that would allow students to develop their own interest and areas of expertise to conduct 5-minute mini-oral reports 2 times during early to mid-November. You can exchange the views and acquired knowledge pertinent to selected topics and gain feedbacks from fellow classmates.

The Dao De Jing curriculum will consist of the following topics:

1. Overview: Key concepts and background information of Dao De Jing

2. Nature and Humanity: Environment protection and cuisine conflicts

3. Dao De Jing & Politics and Governing: international politics, governing and its

relation to Dao De Jing

4. Leadership and Philosophy: Insights of Dao De Jing on leadership, education and

Philosophy

5. Action: Learn and Just do it!

6. Individualization Research Analysis Projects using insights from Dao De Jing