Responsiveness and the Asymmetry of Calling-Responding in Relation to Forgetting Oneself in the Zhuangzi

Abstract This article reveals that the concept of “ ying 應 (responding or responsiveness)” in the Zhuangzi is understood in terms of one’s adjustment or reconciliation with others, and one’s acceptance and accommodation of those carrying different views and values. A sense of “following along with,” “yielding to,” or deference is deeply embedded in this responsiveness. The Zhuangzian mode of responding to calling reverses the host/ guest role, and prioritizes the other’s circumstances and needs, without any pursuit of self-gain. This resonates with the Levinasian-Derridean mode of responding and its other-centered approach. Levinas is perhaps the only contemporary Western philosopher who positively considers the possibility “to forget oneself.” However, forgetfulness is neither thematized in Levinas’s ethical philosophy, nor treated as a capacity to be cultivated. This study is dedicated to a collective celebration of Professor Chung-ying Cheng’s life and his remarkable contribution to the study of Chinese philosophy.