About The Tao of Spock: How Vulcan Philosophy Intersects with Taoism In the Star Trek Universe by Dr. Joseph D. Di Lella:
The beloved character of Mr. Spock in the Star Trek franchise has earned respect not only for his heroism and principled way of life, but also for the philosophical path of existence of his people he from Vulcan. Spock, a half-human, half-Vulcan, tries to live his life through the teaching of Surak – a non-violent branch of both Stoicism and Humanism. Through this approach with others, the Trek character shows his logical side, and yet there is another philosophical stance that often intersects with Spock’s behavior – Taoism.
Lao Tzu, a composite character of Chinese origin, also taught his followers how to approach life. Tzu’s Tao Te Ching deals with the areas of nature, political power, social interactions, family, and peace, among the most important areas of life humans must find their way.
Spock, a character from Gene Roddenberry, displays both the collective knowledge of Surak the Vulcan and Tzu the Chinese philosopher, as he helps Captain James T. Kirk and his fellow crew mates about the USS Enterprise as they explore the galaxy.
This book attempts to show you, the devoted Star Trek fan, how one Vulcan helped changed his universe through the teachings of Surak and Tzu in his search for peaceful co-existence even with the most vile and aggressive aliens, and humans, in the Alpha Quadrant.. If not for his efforts, the Roddenberry Universe would be a much more violent, war-like place.
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Author Bio:
As a lifelong learner, teacher and writer, I have recently joined the independent writer’s circle here on Amazon/Kindle. My educational background is in the fields of sociology, bilingual education and literature. With my Ph.D. in Education, I have taught at over a dozen colleges, including Stanford University, UC San Diego, University of Oregon, USC, San Diego State and the College of the Marshall Islands. A longtime science fiction fan, I pitched stories to Star Trek: Enterprise for seasons two and three at Paramount Studios. My writing background includes screenplays, teleplays, poetry, short stories, fiction and non-fiction books. I now reside in Brazil and teach English as a Second Language as well as write, cycle and continue to muse on the mysteries of life.