Page 6 - The Encyclopedia of Taoism v1_A-L

FOREWORD ix

with the notable exception of the work of Joseph Needham and his associ-
ates the British academic contribution to the study of Taoism has been more
or less nugatory, I am particularly glad that the British publishing industry at
least has played its part in rectifying the wrongs of the centuries. But now is
no time for us in these small islands to rest upon our laurels. As China once
more takes up the leading role amongst nations commensurate with the size
of its population and the richness of its cultural heritage, the very insularity
that once allowed our forefathers in a fit of imperial absent-mindedness to
treat China with an insolence that was not even perceived as such at the time
still needs to be broken down and replaced with a more fraternal respect
and, crucially, understanding. I sincerely hope that the small contribution to
international cultural awareness we have helped-with so many others-to
make in uncovering one of the more neglected aspects of China's heritage
through this encyclopedia will be by no means the last.