1.) b) Describe the basic philosophy of the Tao Tê Ching and discuss how this text has developed over the centuries. The basic philosophy of the Tao Te Ching was to live in harmony with the fundamental force behind nature (World Religions page 181). Tao Te Ching split into several groups; one group was those who followed the teachings of Lao-tzu and Chuang-Tzu. The other group was focused on extending life, not through reincarnation, but extending present life. Through the process of seeking life extension, the Taoists found their first god, and more and more gods began to develop. Soon the Tao Te Ching was officially validated and recognized as scripture. The influence of the Tao Te Ching spread and became the religion of the masses for the Chinese people. Through the influence of Buddhism, Taoism evolved and began to merge with other religions. A battle broke out between Buddhists and Taoists, a battle of influence that ultimately led to persecution. The teachings of each group changed until both blended with the teachings of Confucius and each became more accepting of each...