Abstract:

In human communication, the use of speech is inevitable. Zhuangzi first notices the negative impact of speech and knowledge in this process. "Speech" and "knowledge" may cause "division" among humans and hence how to build reasonable relationships through communication becomes an issue we cannot ignore. Regarding "internally upright but externally adaptable" as the general principle, Zhuangzi distinguishes three aspects in communication:"being a follower of the ways of Heaven", "being a follower of the ways of man" and "being a follower of the ways of the ancients". Meanwhile, he attaches importance to the self-enhancement of individuals. The self is conceived as the starting point of human communication, which is involved with the understanding and cultivation of the self. In the elaboration of the "fasting of the mind-heart" (xinzhai), Zhuangzi probes deeply into the self, advocating "allowing your ears and eyes to open inward and thereby placing yourself beyond your mind's understanding consciousness". Living in the world, human beings involve with the "usefulness" in the broad sense. In Zhuangzi's view, "usefulness" can be divided into two types:the "usefulness" for others and that for the self. What is useless for others might be worthy for the self. Adopting the metaphor of a tree, Zhuangzi regards the "uselessness" for others and the society as the premise of realizing the inward value of man. In spite of its negative aspect, this theory shows its concern about the self.

Key words: Human World, being together, fasting of the mind-heart, usefulness of the useless