Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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Mencius said: “Ordinary people aren’t worth blaming, and everyday policies aren’t worth nitpicking. Only a ‘great person’ can rectify the ruler’s inner moral errors.”
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The empire, long divided, must unite; long united, must divide. Thus it has ever been.
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8.10The Master said, “One who is by nature daring and is suffering from poverty will not long be law-abiding. Indeed, any men, save those that are truly Good, if their sufferings are very great, will be likely to rebel.”
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Chapter 57 critiques overly interventionist governance and advocates wu wei (non-action) as the ideal political philosophy. Laozi argues that excessive laws, regulations, and control paradoxically create societal chaos, while simplicity, humility, and restraint from rulers foster natural harmony and prosperity.