Author: Adrian (釋大道)

On top of this, some aspects of TCM have developed through added-on superstitions that became popular in the past – but are not related to the philosophical foundation of TCM (probably the “Change Classic”). These Chinese superstitions are culturally comforting – but are not premised upon genuine TCM philosophy – and cannot be materially (objectively) proven to work either traditionally or cotemporally. In the West there are two strands of TCM – one practiced and passed-on by ethnic Chinese people (who may or may not – be linked directly to Mainland China) – the other practiced and passed-on by (usually “White”) non-Chinese people. The latter category evolved out of the Western invasion of China – and the “enforced” teaching of TCM to Westerners. In the UK there are TCM centres (specialising in “acupuncture”) that have no links with any authorising ethnic Chinese institution. These are considered “racist” in historical origin and function – as such entities represent the “White” appropriation of Chinese TCM culture – a process which “excludes” the ethnic Chinese from their own culture. This remains the case even if certain ethnic Chinese individuals are taught this stream of Westernised TCM (which actually happens).