Empiricism - finding valuable facts and discoveries through observation and experiment in the absence of any theory.
(Doug Marsh)
Science
The science of warfare and combat is ancient.
Sun Tzu wrote the classic treatise called The Art of War.
Miyamoto Musashi wrote The Book of Five
Rings concerning the demeanour and bearing of
samurai.
Understanding the science behind the
art is essential.
Without the science, the art is usually doomed to ineffectualness.
Science is about the
substance.
What is science?
Science is the attempt to understand the nature of reality.
In martial terms it
refers to the
techniques and strategies used in real combat, as well as the physical
requirements that make the system operate effectively.
In
tai chi
we must ask: how can
natural law be used in combat?
Empiricism
Talk is cheap in the modern world, so we
encourage direct
experience instead.
Nobody in the class is expected to take the
teacher's word for it. Find out for
yourself through practical
exercises.
Belief is not a requirement, nor is faith. You are not a
disciple.
We adopt a scientific approach. The evidence is to be
found in the doing and the proof in the
effect.
This is called 'empiricism':
Theoretical science concerns itself with simple systems, whereas empirical research is suited to complex systems under diverse conditions.
(Doug Marsh)
Discover the facts for yourself.
Feel it for yourself.
This is the heart of zen.
Mastery of
your own body
In tai chi, form and substance
must be combined for movement with power to work.
Form explores the use of moving structure.
Neigong produces inner strength - the unseen power of tai
chi - the
substance required for self defence.
The science of tai chi is understood through exploration and practice.
You cannot take another's word for it - you must find out for yourself.
Mastery of your opponent's body
Applying tai chi is another matter
entirely.
The successful application of form and substance relative to an opponent
requires the discovery of an entirely new set of principles.
Leverage, timing, positioning,
appropriateness and naturalness are just a few of the concerns.
Applying tai chi without tensing-up or in any way opposing the incoming
force is one of the greatest challenges facing a student.
Force cannot meet force in tai chi.
Understanding how to deal with incoming force will transform how you see tai
chi.
It is a necessary area of study should you ever seek to truly be mastered by
the art.
Page created 2 March 2000