Zhuangzi’s Jie Xin 解心 (Untangling the Heartmind) and the Wisdom of Biomimicry: An Innovative Approach to Humanity, Nature, and Technology for the 21st Century

Robin R. Wang

doi:10.4312/as.2026.14.1.39-63

Authors

Robin R. WANG Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, United States; Ma Yifu Academy, 马一浮书院, Zhenjiang University, Hangzhou, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4312/as.2026.14.1.39-63

Keywords:

jie xin 解心 (untangling the heartmind), jie niu 解牛 (dissecting the ox), Biomimicry, miaoji 妙技 (subtle technique), shen 神 (spirit)

Abstract

Zhuangzi employs the term jie 解 (untangling, dissecting, releasing, unravelling) in both jie xin 解心 (untangling the heartmind) and jie niu 解牛 (dissecting the ox). This concept embodies Zhuangzi’s philosophy of achieving clarity and balance by aligning with the natural order rather than resisting it. This philosophical spirit resonates with the wisdom of biomimicry, which draws on nature’s time-tested systems as models for addressing human challenges. Both Zhuangzi’s 解心 and biomimicry involve observing and emulating natural forms, processes, and patterns to produce new products and practices attuned with nature’s living forces. This approach advocates integrating the natural world into human practices—not exploiting nature, but treating it as a teacher and guide rather than merely a resource. Such perspectives and practices offer a pathway toward sustainable innovation, ecological balance, and synchronized coexistence in the 21st century.

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