Laozi
Awards & Honours
0
Awards Won
3
Honours
4
Rankings
3
Covers
3
Records
Laozi's influence is unparalleled in Chinese philosophy. The Tao Te Ching has shaped Chinese thought for over two millennia, and its impact extends globally as one of the most translated works in history. He is the only philosopher whose ideas have been claimed by both imperial dynasties and countercultural movements, from Tang emperors to modern environmentalists. In 2016, The Philosopher's Magazine reader poll ranked him the greatest philosopher of all time. Michael H. Hart's The 100 placed him 14th among history's most influential figures. His work consistently tops lists of the world's most important books.
Honours & Distinctions
Imperial Ancestor of the Tang Dynasty
Emperor Gaozu claimed descent from Laozi, making him the nominal progenitor of the Tang imperial house.
Supreme Mysterious and Primordial Emperor
Title bestowed by Emperor Xuanzong, elevating Laozi to a deified status.
Identified as Laojun, One of the Three Pure Ones
In Taoist pantheon, Laozi is venerated as Lord Lao, a highest deity.
Rankings & Lists
Greatest Philosopher of All Time
Most Influential Figures in History
Best Nonfiction Books of All Time
Top 100 Spiritual Books
Magazine Covers
TIME
1997-04-07
The Tao of Business
TIME
1999-08-23
Lao Tzu: The Old Master's Guide to the New Millennium
The New Yorker
2010-10-25
The Way of Lao Tzu
Records & Feats
Most Translated Book After the Bible
The Tao Te Ching has been translated into more languages than any other book except the Bible.
Oldest Known Philosophical Text in Continuous Use
The Tao Te Ching, composed c. 500 BCE, has been continuously studied and commented upon for over 2,500 years.
Only Philosopher Quoted by Both Mao Zedong and Steve Jobs
Laozi's teachings have been cited by leaders of vastly different ideologies and eras.