Naturalistic Chi(Qi)-Based Philosophy as a Foundation of Chi(Qi) Theory of Communication

Abstract

The chi (qi) concept, originated from ancient China, typifies dialectics with the yin and yang bipolar. It has been employed to develop a communication theory in general and applied to studies of various communication contexts in particular. However, there have been a number of philosophical schools of chi theory, some of which are mystical or overly moral value laden. The different schools can easily confuse those who intend to seek a philosophical grounding for the chi theory of communication. This paper explains why the \"naturalistic chi-based philosophy,\" as opposed to the \"Holy chi-based philosophy,\" is the philosophical paradigm which best interfaces with modern social science and communication theory. This assertion will be argued from three properties of chi: 1) the universality of the yin-yang dialectics in various behaviors and phenomena, 2) the fundamental dialectic structure of communication, and 3) the implicit goal toward harmony in communication contexts.