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Quote by Laozi

“Governing a large state is like boiling a small fish.”

Quote by Laozi

Work

Composed by Laozi, this ancient Chinese classic is a collection of teachings that emphasize living in accordance with the Tao, or 'the Way', which is the essential principle underlying the universe. It offers insights into the nature of life, ethics, and the pursuit of a harmonious existence. more

Author

Laozi

Laozi, also known as Lao Dan, was a renowned ancient Chinese philosopher and the founder of the Taoist school of thought. His birth and death dates are approximately 604 BC to 531 BC. Laozi advocated for顺应自然 (yielding to nature) and the principle of non-action (wu wei), which had a profound impact on Chinese philosophy, culture, and politics. more

“We have conferred a mystic popularity upon officials whose only virtue is their timidity; while our scorn of rebels and reformers is so great that we have ceased to persecute them. The capitals and governments of the world are in the hands of caution; and change comes over them only in the night, unseen.”

World Hands Government Night Virtue Officials Rebel Popularity Unseen Caution Scorn Mystic Reformers Timidity

Book:The Mansions of Philosophy: A Survey of Human Life and Destiny

Source: The Mansions of Philosophy: A Survey of Human Life and Destiny

“It would be desirable if every Government, when it comes to power, should have its old speeches burnt.”

Ifs Should Government Would Be Speech Should Have Desirable

Author:Philip Snowden, 1st Viscount Snowden

“The science of constructing a commonwealth or renovating it, or reforming it, is...not to be taught a priori...That which in the first instance is prejudicial may be excellent in its remoter operation, and its excellence may rise even from the ill effects it produces in the beginning. The reverse also happens; and very plausible schemes, with very pleasing commencements, have often shameful and lamentable conclusions.”