How does Taoism provide a distinctive response to the search for meaning?

Answer 1

We humans are creatures of extremes. This often shows up within our spirituality, making for aberrant religious behavior. Taoism did not escape this and so later followers became extreme and fanatical in their search for meaning. Some became hermits and nihilistic. Others became compulsive and controlling in their attempts to formulate "the way" of Taoism. Followers became discouraged, some turning to Confucianism. China today is a "mixed bag" religiously. Though Taoism in its original form has faded out, its positive influence within other religious traditions, in China and worldwide, continues to be felt.