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Enlightenment in the Dark Forest: Chan/Zen in Cixin Liu’s Three Body Trilogy

In: Journal of Chinese Philosophy
Author:
Ben Van Overmeire Division of Humanities, Duke Kunshan University Kunshan, Jiangsu China

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https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8399-3065
Online Publication Date:
24 Jan 2025
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Abstract

This article explores the Chan/Zen Buddhist elements in Cixin Liu’s Three Body science fiction trilogy, particularly through the character of Luo Ji 羅輯. By exploring these references, the provocative moral and political philosophy articulated in the books can be better understood. Ultimately, I argue that Liu presents a modified version of Chan/Zen as the philosophy best fit for confronting a hostile universe.

Title:
Enlightenment in the Dark Forest: Chan/Zen in Cixin Liu’s Three Body Trilogy
Article Type:
Research Article
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1163/15406253-12340136
Language:
English
Pages:
137–149
Keywords:
Cixin Liu; science fiction; Chan/Zen Buddhism; outer space; samurai; Bodhidharma; Linji Yixuan; Takuan Sōhō; expedient means; attachment
In:
Journal of Chinese Philosophy
In:
Volume 51: Issue 2-3
Received:
24 Jun 2024
Accepted:
24 Sep 2024
Publisher:
Brill
E-ISSN:
1540-6253
Print ISSN:
0301-8121
Subjects:
Asian Philosophy, Philosophy, Chinese Philosophy, Philosophy, Asian Studies, China

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