From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


Nature Index (*c-ta|uicuo#)
----is a scientific evaluation database and analysis platform hosted by the prestigious **Nature Publishing Group** (NPG),
the publisher of the renowned journal *Nature*.

Its authority is recognized worldwide for several reasons:
1. **Core Journal Coverage**: It exclusively tracks publications in **145 high-impact journals** under the *Nature* umbrella (including *Nature*, *Science*, and their sub-journals).
These journals are widely regarded as the "gold standard" in scientific research.
2. **Partnerships**: Its data models and metrics (such as Output Index, Collaboration Index) are often benchmarked against other leading global databases like **Elsevier's Scopus** and **Clarivate's Web of Science**.
3. **International Recognition**: The rankings and reports generated by Nature Index are frequently cited in *Nature* itself and serve as a crucial reference for universities, governmental bodies,
and research institutions worldwide.

---



**Top 50 Institutions in Applied Sciences (Nature Index 2024)**

1. Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)
2. Zhejiang University (China)
3. Tsinghua University (China)
4. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China)
5. Xi'an Jiaotong University (China)
6. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)
7. Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China)
8. Sichuan University (China)
9. Harbin Institute of Technology (China)
10. Tianjin University (China)
11. Nanjing University (China)
12. Sun Yat-sen University (China)
13. Tongji University (China)
14. Jilin University (China)
15. South China University of Technology (China)
16. Fudan University (China)
17. Beijing Institute of Technology (China)
18. Soochow University (China)
19. Wuhan University (China)
20. Nankai University (China)
21. Shandong University (China)
22. Central South University (China)
23. North China Electric Power University (China)
24. Xiamen University (China)
25. Dalian University of Technology (China)
26. City University of Hong Kong (China-Hong Kong)
27. Hunan University (China)
28. Shanghai University (China)
29. East China Normal University (China)
30. Beijing Normal University (China)
31. National University of Singapore (Singapore)
32. Max Planck Society (Germany)
33. The University of Tokyo (Japan)
34. Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (South Korea)
35. Australian National University (Australia)
36. Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (France)
37. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (Switzerland)
38. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA)
39. Stanford University (USA)
40. University of California, Berkeley (USA)
41. University of California, San Francisco (USA)
42. Harvard University (USA)
43. Johns Hopkins University (USA)
44. University of California, Los Angeles (USA)
45. Princeton University (USA)
46. Columbia University (USA)
47. Cornell University (USA)
48. University of Washington (USA)
49. University of California, San Diego (USA)
50. Duke University (USA)
--- Synchronet 3.21b-Linux NewsLink 1.2

From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


Mahjong fan <user11874@newsgrouper.org.invalid> posted:

Nature Index (*c-ta|uicuo#)
----is a scientific evaluation database and analysis platform hosted by the prestigious **Nature Publishing Group** (NPG),
the publisher of the renowned journal *Nature*.

Its authority is recognized worldwide for several reasons:
1. **Core Journal Coverage**: It exclusively tracks publications in **145 high-impact journals** under the *Nature* umbrella (including *Nature*, *Science*, and their sub-journals).
These journals are widely regarded as the "gold standard" in scientific research.
2. **Partnerships**: Its data models and metrics (such as Output Index, Collaboration Index) are often benchmarked against other leading global databases like **Elsevier's Scopus** and **Clarivate's Web of Science**.
3. **International Recognition**: The rankings and reports generated by Nature Index are frequently cited in *Nature* itself and serve as a crucial reference for universities, governmental bodies,
and research institutions worldwide.

---

**Top 50 Institutions in Applied Sciences (Nature Index 2024)**

1. Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)
2. Zhejiang University (China)
3. Tsinghua University (China)
4. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China)
5. Xi'an Jiaotong University (China)
6. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (China)
7. Huazhong University of Science and Technology (China)
8. Sichuan University (China)
9. Harbin Institute of Technology (China)
10. Tianjin University (China)
11. Nanjing University (China)
12. Sun Yat-sen University (China)
13. Tongji University (China)
14. Jilin University (China)
15. South China University of Technology (China)
16. Fudan University (China)
17. Beijing Institute of Technology (China)
18. Soochow University (China)
19. Wuhan University (China)
20. Nankai University (China)
21. Shandong University (China)
22. Central South University (China)
23. North China Electric Power University (China)
24. Xiamen University (China)
25. Dalian University of Technology (China)
26. City University of Hong Kong (China-Hong Kong)
27. Hunan University (China)
28. Shanghai University (China)
29. East China Normal University (China)
30. Beijing Normal University (China)
31. National University of Singapore (Singapore)
32. Max Planck Society (Germany)
33. The University of Tokyo (Japan)
34. Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (South Korea)
35. Australian National University (Australia)
36. Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (France)
37. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (Switzerland)
38. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (USA)
39. Stanford University (USA)
40. University of California, Berkeley (USA)
41. University of California, San Francisco (USA)
42. Harvard University (USA)
43. Johns Hopkins University (USA)
44. University of California, Los Angeles (USA)
45. Princeton University (USA)
46. Columbia University (USA)
47. Cornell University (USA)
48. University of Washington (USA)
49. University of California, San Diego (USA)
50. Duke University (USA)

====================================================

Nature Index 2025 Research LeadersN+eComprehensive Research Strength RankingsN+e

**Global TOP 10 Institutions in the 2025 Nature Index Research Leaders (Based on 2024 data):**

1. **Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)** - Ranked 1st (No change)
2. **Harvard University (USA)** - Ranked 2nd (No change)
3. **University of Science and Technology of China (USTC)** - Ranked 3rd (Rank increased)
4. **Zhejiang University (ZJU)** - Ranked 4th (Jumped from 10th)
5. **Peking University (PKU)** - Ranked 5th
6. **University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS)** - Ranked 6th
7. **Tsinghua University** - Ranked 7th
8. **Nanjing University (NJU)** - Ranked 8th
9. **Max Planck Society (Germany)** - Ranked 9th (Rank decreased)
10. **Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)** - Ranked 10th (New entrant to top 10)
--- Synchronet 3.21b-Linux NewsLink 1.2

From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


Mahjong fan posted:

Nature Index (*c-ta|uicuo#)
----is a scientific evaluation database
and analysis platform hosted by the prestigious **Nature Publishing Group** (NPG), the publisher of the renowned journal *Nature*.

Nature reminds me of tzu-jan,
now spelled ziran or zi-ran
using the Pinyin Romanization.

What the journal or index has to do with Daoism,
formerly spelled Taoism, Tao Chia or Dao Jia,
that is to say, Daoist Philosophy, is a
kind of unknown naturally.

Why are you posting it here?

How does it relate to Daojia?

- thanks! aye. Cheers!
--- Synchronet 3.21b-Linux NewsLink 1.2

From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


aye <user8028@newsgrouper.org.invalid> posted:

Mahjong fan posted:

Nature Index (*c-ta|uicuo#)
----is a scientific evaluation database
and analysis platform hosted by the prestigious **Nature Publishing Group** (NPG), the publisher of the renowned journal *Nature*.

Nature reminds me of tzu-jan,
now spelled ziran or zi-ran
using the Pinyin Romanization.

What the journal or index has to do with Daoism,
formerly spelled Taoism, Tao Chia or Dao Jia,
that is to say, Daoist Philosophy, is a
kind of unknown naturally.

Why are you posting it here?

How does it relate to Daojia?

Taoist philosophy, with its profound wisdom spanning millennia, offers us a distinctive interpretive framework and practical guidance for understanding the dynamics of international scientific research rankings.

The Core Insight: Change
One of the most profound insights of Taoist philosophy is "change" rCo the understanding that all things in the universe exist in eternal flux. Laozi's statement that "a violent wind does not last a whole morning, a sudden rain does not last a whole day" vividly captures this profound understanding of impermanence. The fluctuations in international scientific research rankings perfectly illustrate this philosophical wisdom: there is no eternal first place, nor eternal backwardness. Today, China's scientific research has achieved a historic leap. Behind these various changes lie the rise and fall of comprehensive national strength, scientific research investment, and talent cultivation policies rCo this is precisely what Taoism describes as the transformation of all things.

Taoism holds that change follows its own inherent laws. "The Tao produced one; one produced two; two produced three; three produced all things" rCo change is not chaotic or disordered but follows theu|ooeO of the Tao. In the realm of scientific research, this change equally follows deeper laws: the accumulation of basic research determines the output of applied research; the cycle of talent cultivation affects the ebb and flow of scientific research strength; changes in the policy environment shape the landscape of the innovation ecosystem. Understanding these laws and following the trend rather than going against it is the only way to remain invincible amid change.

The Principle of Yin-Yang Transformation
In Taoist philosophy, the waxing and waning of yin and yang is a dynamic process: when yang flourishes, yin declines; when yin reaches its extreme, yang is born. "Disaster is what fortune depends upon; fortune is what disaster lies within." The transformation of the international scientific research landscape is precisely a modern annotation of this principle: the former research hegemon may gradually decline due to insufficient innovation momentum, while late-developing countries may achieve overtaking through vigorous efforts.

The trajectory of China's rising scientific research strength clearly reflects the law of yin-yang transformation.

The Principle of Following Nature
The concept of "the Tao follows nature" provides a fundamental guiding principle for understanding scientific research development. Scientific research activities possess their own inherent laws: basic research requires long-term accumulation; applied research requires problem-driven approaches; talent cultivation needs to proceed step by step; the academic ecosystem requires freedom and openness. Any approach that violates these laws rCo such as short-sighted policies driven by haste, formalistic assessment systems, or academic hegemonies that suppress dissenting opinions rCo may cause damage to the scientific enterprise. From this perspective, examining the changes in international scientific research rankings reveals who performs well and who performs poorly.

The Wisdom of Non-Action
The Taoist wisdom of "striving without contention" reminds us that what is truly important is not the ranking itself but the genuine enhancement of scientific research strength; not external recognition but the enhancement of inherent innovative capability. When a country's scientific researchers can freely explore, devote themselves to research, and pursue truth, true strength will naturally emerge rCo it cannot be deliberately sought.

We should also draw on the wisdom of Taoist "equalization of things" rCo all things are equal, each has its own value, and we should not judge heroes solely by rankings. Basic research and applied research are equally important; unpopular disciplines and popular disciplines each have their own value; traditional fields and interdisciplinary frontiers all deserve attention. The establishment of this multi-perspective view is precisely the concrete application of Taoist wisdom in contemporary scientific research policy.

Five Insights for the Future
First, the "way of change" teaches us that the ebb and flow of scientific research strength is a historical norm. Today's leader may become tomorrow's follower, and today's follower may become tomorrow's leader. The key lies in grasping the laws of change and following the trend. Second, the "way of transformation" teaches us that the waxing and waning of yin and yang and the interchange of fortune and misfortune mean that we should neither become arrogant when rankings rise nor lose heart when rankings decline. The key lies in maintaining awareness of potential problems and being adept at grasping the moments of transformation. Third, the "way of nature" teaches us that scientific development has its inherent laws rCo haste only produces counterproductive results, and following the laws leads to steady progress. Policymakers should create an environment that respects the laws of scientific research, enabling researchers to explore peacefully and dedicate themselves to long-term work. Fourth, the "way of non-action" teaches us that the government's role is to build platforms and create conditions, rather than over-intervening and taking charge of everything. Only by letting academia handle academic affairs and administration handle administration can we stimulate innovative vitality. Fifth, the "way of balance" teaches us that scientific development requires multi-faceted advancement and harmonious coexistence. Basic research and applied research, scale and quality, introduction and output, competition and cooperation all require seeking balance in motion.
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From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


Mahjong fan posted:

Taoist philosophy, ...

Thanks!

A wonder emerges in terms of a basic Daojia.

Research for its own sake, may be zi-ran.

Progress might be a different story.

To intentionally seek to make better,
and better, to be the best, etc.

- aye. Cheers!
--- Synchronet 3.21b-Linux NewsLink 1.2

From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


aye posted:

Mahjong fan posted:

Taoist philosophy, ...

A wonder emerges in terms of a basic Daojia.

Research for its own sake, may be zi-ran.

Progress might be a different story.

To intentionally seek to make better,
and better, to be the best, etc.

Science departs from Daojia when it becomes:

Obsessed with domination over nature
Motivated purely by control, exploitation, or manipulation
Detached from humility toward natural processes

From a Daoist perspective, forcing nature aggressively
creates imbalance and unintended consequences.

The issue is not experimentation itselfrCobut the mindset behind it.

A helpful analogy from Daojia

Daoist texts often compare wisdom to:

A butcher who cuts effortlessly
because he follows the natural grain of the meat

A swimmer who moves with the current instead of fighting it

Experimentation that follows the natural tendencies of phenomena
is like moving with the current. Experimentation that forces
unnatural outcomes is like thrashing against it.

Summary in Daojia terms

Observing and learning from nature raA aligned with Daojia
Forcing nature into rigid human designs raA less aligned

Science as receptive discovery raA wu-wei compatible
Science as domination raA wu-wei incompatible

Science itself is not outside Daojia.
It can be practiced either in harmony with the Dao or in tension with it.

Daojia ultimately values attunementrCo
understanding the patterns of reality so deeply
that action becomes natural, precise, and unforced.

Daojia distinguishes between:

Effort that follows natural patterns raA aligned
Effort driven by restless striving, domination,
or dissatisfaction raA misaligned

Building a simple shelter fits easily within Daojia.
Mining vast portions of the Earth to produce billions
of devices reflects a different mindsetrCo
one of expansion without clear natural stopping points.

The key issue is not technology, but the psychology behind it

Zhuangzi often criticized the human tendency to overcomplicate life unnecessarily. He observed that the more humans chase control, progress,
and achievement, the further they drift from ease and harmony.

Going to the Moon represents extraordinary ingenuityrCo
but also extraordinary striving. From a Daoist lens,
this raises questions like:

Is this arising naturally from balanced living?
Or from restlessness, curiosity detached from sufficiency,
and desire to transcend limits?

Daojia tends to favor depth over expansion,
simplicity over accumulation.

Daojia favors sufficiency,
not maximization

A core Daoist principle is knowing when enough is enough.

The Dao De Jing says, in essence:

Those who know contentment are rich.
Those who know when to stop avoid danger

However, Daojia is subtle rCo it does not impose rigid moral rules

Daojia does not say:

rCLTechnology is evilrCY
rCLHumans must not inventrCY

Instead, it observes consequences.

When actions increase:

Stress
Complexity
Dependency
Environmental disruption
Psychological dissatisfaction

These are signs of moving away from the Dao.

Modern technological civilization tends to operate on continuous escalationrCo more speed, more production, more control. Daojia sees this as potentially destabilizing, not because creation itself is wrong, but because endless escalation ignores natural balance.

When actions increase:

Balance
Simplicity
Stability
Effortless functioning

These are signs of alignment.

A concise Daoist way to frame it

Growing food to live raA aligned
Creating tools that simplify life raA often aligned
Creating systems that create endless new needs raA less aligned

Pursuing expansion for its own sake raA often misaligned

Daojia is less impressed by what humans can do,
and more concerned with whether doing it preserves harmony.

In Daoist thought, the highest sophistication looks simple,
stable, and effortlessrConot dramatic, complex, or extreme.

- ChatGPT
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From Newsgroup: alt.philosophy.taoism


Mahjong fan posted:

Nature Index (*c-ta|uicuo#)
**Top 50 Institutions in Applied Sciences (Nature Index 2024)**

Applied science, especially at the scale reflected in the Nature Index rankings,
does reflect a strong orientation toward you-wei (uLete|)rCointentional, assertive
actionrCorather than wu-wei.

And yes, Chapter 80 of the Dao De Jing speaks directly to this tension.

Wu-wei vs you-wei: both exist, but only one is stable

Daojia does not deny that humans act intentionally.
You-wei simply means deliberate intervention.
Applied sciencesrComining rare earth elements,
engineering semiconductors, launching satellitesrCo
are clear examples of you-wei. They reshape the world
according to human plans.

Wu-wei, by contrast, means acting in a way
that does not fight the underlying nature of things.
It is responsive, minimal, and non-excessive.

Applied science often operates from a mindset of:
extraction, optimization, control, scaling beyond natural limits.

This tends toward you-wei in its stronger formrCo
assertion rather than alignment.

Zi-ran means rCLself-so,rCY not rCLhuman-designedrCY
Zi-ran refers to processes unfolding from their own internal nature.

A forest growing is zi-ran.
A microchip fabrication plant is not zi-ran.

That does not make technology rCLwrongrCY in Daoist termsrCo
but it does place it outside spontaneous natural unfolding.
It is imposed order, not emergent order.

Daojia treats imposed order as inherently less stable.

Chapter 80 is often interpreted exactly as described

Chapter 80 describes a small community that:
has tools but does not rely on them heavily,
has weapons, but does not use them,
lives simply and does not travel far.

This reflects a core Daoist insight: capability does not require utilization.

Laozi is pointing to restraint. The danger lies not in invention itself,
but in compulsive use driven by ambition, fear, or dissatisfaction.

The text suggests that technological capability
tends to generate its own momentum. Once available,
it invites use, which invites dependence, which invites escalation.

ChinarCOs applied science leadership illustrates you-wei at civilizational scale.

The rise of China in applied sciences reflects extraordinary
intentional organization of matter, energy, and knowledge.

From a Daoist lens, this represents highly effective you-wei.

Daojia would not deny its effectiveness.
You-wei can achieve remarkable things. The concern is different: sustainability, balance, and long-term harmony.

Dao De Jing Chapter 30 states that forceful action often rebounds.

The pattern is:

strong assertion raA rapid gains
rapid gains raA instability
instability raA correction or collapse

Wu-wei, by contrast, grows slowly but endures.

Daojia does not measure advancement the same way modern civilization does

Modern metrics measure: output, production,
technological sophistication, control over physical systems.

Daojia measures something else entirely:
stability, balance, sufficiency, effortlessness.

From a Daoist perspective, the most rCLadvancedrCY society
may appear technologically simple but psychologically and ecologically stable.

The Dao De Jing repeatedly emphasizes that excess complexity
signals movement away from the Dao.
The paradox: the more control increases, the less harmony tends to exist

Applied science increases human power dramatically.
But Daojia observes that increased power often brings:

more intervention required to maintain systems,
more dependencies, more fragility beneath the surface.

Wu-wei produces systems that sustain themselves.
You-wei produces systems that must be constantly maintained.

One moves with the Dao.
The other must continuously resist entropy through effort.

Final Daoist framing

Applied science is a highly refined form of you-wei.
It demonstrates intelligence, skill, and disciplinerCo
but it is not zi-ran, and it is not wu-wei in the strict sense.

Daojia would see it as powerful, useful, but inherently unstable
if pursued without restraint.

The Dao De Jing does not condemn capability.
It warns against losing the ability to stop.

- ChatGPT
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