Final answer:
Daoist tradition sees human civilization as often disrupting our alignment with the natural order, or dao. It encourages adherence to natural forces and simplicity over human constructs, valuing non-action (wu wei). The result is a view that civilization is less significant in the face of the natural universe.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Daoist tradition views human civilization with a degree of skepticism, recognizing that human institutions often pull us away from living in harmony with the natural world and the dao. Instead of seeing civilization as the pinnacle of human achievement, Daoism critiques the societal structure, particularly when it separates humans from their alignment with the dao. This perspective is clearest in their critique of Confucian virtues, which emerged only after society had lost its way, and the recommendation to follow a naturalistic and nontheological worldview.
According to Daoism, most human suffering and conflict arise from desires and greed, suggesting that we cannot regulate human action with traditional moral systems and norms. To achieve harmony and flourish, living according to what is natural is key. Actions that promote such harmony are therefore considered moral in Daoist ethics.
Daoism encourages simplicity, the elimination of desires and greed, and the embrace of naturalness, guiding us to transcend beyond traditional human constructs. Wu wei, or non-action, is recommended as a way of life where one aligns with the flow of nature and does not forcibly impose upon the world. This ultimately positions human civilization as something that should be transcended in order to maintain balance with the natural world.
The correct answer to the student's question is: (D) It is inconsequential in the grand scheme of the universe.