Final answer:
Bruce Lee's statement implies that being prepared for conflict while cherishing peace is ideal. This aligns with the philosophical doctrines in martial arts and historical texts which advocate for readiness and respect, suggesting that martial arts is less about violence and more about maintaining harmony through strength and discipline. Option B) Peace and fighting can coexist is the correct answer
Step-by-step explanation:
Bruce Lee's response "It's better to be a warrior in a garden than to be a gardener in a war." suggests that peace and fighting can coexist. The wisdom underlying this saying is deeply rooted in the philosophical traditions that influence martial arts and broadly addresses the idea of preparedness and the ideal of being ready to face conflict, despite cherishing peace. Martial arts foster the virtue of being equipped to handle situations of conflict while emphasizing a peaceful disposition. This philosophy is resonant with historical texts such as the Art of War by Sunzi, which teaches that superior strategy aims to win without fighting whenever possible.
Throughout history, from the Confucian, Daoist, and Mohist opposition to offensive war, to Sunzi's strategic principles emphasizing psychological readiness and unassailable positions, there exists a strong undercurrent of seeking harmony and peace. Similarly, in the martial arts, there is a strong tradition of respect for one's opponent. Opponents may display courtesy and concern for each other, reflecting a culture where the essence of being a warrior is not inherent aggression, but the strength to maintain peace.
Consequently, Bruce Lee's statement metaphorically indicates that one should aspire to be a person who is ready and capable to deal with conflict (a warrior), yet places themselves in a peaceful environment (a garden), ready to defend but hoping not to have to. Thus, it aligns with philosophical views that emphasize control over base impulses through self-cultivation and self-improvement, espoused by Confucian thinkers like Xunzi during the Warring States period.