In the mind of the ancient philosopher Lao Tzu, the uncarved inner state represents an ideal condition within human beings. He encourages us to maintain our original state, to return to our true self, and to remain a natural state. Lao Tzu describes such an uncarved state in one of his passages (Book 1, XII, translated by D.C.LAU): "The five colours make man's eyes blind; The five notes make his ears deaf; The five tastes injure his palate; Riding and hunting Make his min
