While it is true that Ki and Chi represent the same thing, there are
different spiritual and associative concepts between the two.  Both are 

the

western equivelent of the 'spirit,' however, there are differences, and
those differences DO come out with the spelling.

For example:  The Traditional Japanese view of Ki is that it is the
essential energy of a persons being.  This is the same as the Chinese 

view

(which is Chi), however, the Japanese view believes that Ki is only 

clouded

by emotions, whereas the chinese view (which IS becoming more common in
Japan, but not among the elite or the priesthood, as explained to my by 

a

former Shinto priest who is my half-brother's natural father) is that 

Chi

can be focused by emotions.

Attacks in Ranma like the Shi shi Hokodan (depression) and the Mouko
Takabisha (confidence) are based on the popular Chinese view, oddly 

enough,

and should be called Chi attacks.  Other attacks (someone suggested 

Herbs,

but I'm not familiar with that story-line) in the series are based on
emotionless focus of energy, and should be called Ki attacks.

There are other differences, but when a debate like 'Ki vs. Chi' comes
along, THIS is what's really being debated...
(like debates between Southern Baptists and Devout Catholics, I 

suppose)

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Sir Desaix, member # 116 of the Knights of the True Fiancee
                            desaix@sysnet.net
   http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/7872
                          fanfics available at 
http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Acropolis/7872/fanfics.htm

Alright, plain and simple:  The Chinese and the Japanese are foolish 
about the whole thing because that can't see that BOTH views are, in  
fact, correct!  I appreciate people trying to point things out, but I've 
studied this in-depth.  I know, to put it plainly.
Thanks anyway.

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