Xun Zi

Quotes Books Biography Comments

Thus, anybody who follows this nature and gives way its states will be led into quarrels and conflicts, and go against the conventions and rules of society, and will end up a criminal.
Quote by Xun Zi

Click on the picture of Xun Zi quote you want to see a larger version.

Xun Zi Quotes

In order to properly understand the big picture, everyone should fear becoming mentally clouded and obsessed with one small section of truth.
The person attempting to travel two roads at once will get nowhere.
Therefore, a person should first be changed by a teacher's instructions, and guided by principles of ritual. Only then can he observe the rules of courtesy and humility, obey the conventions and rules of society, and achieve order.
When people lack teachers, their tendencies are not corrected when they do not have ritual and moral principles, then their lawlessness is not controlled.
Quarreling over food and drink, having neither scruples nor shame, not knowing right from wrong, not trying to avoid death or injury, not fearful of greater strength or of greater numbers, greedily aware only of food and drink - such is the bravery of the dog and boar.
Thus, anybody who follows this nature and gives way its states will be led into quarrels and conflicts, and go against the conventions and rules of society, and will end up a criminal.
Therefore, a person should first be changed by a teacher's instructions, and guided by principles of ritual. Only then can he observe the rules of courtesy and humility, obey the conventions and rules of society, and achieve order.
The coming of honor or disgrace must be a reflection of one's inner power.
Human nature refers to what is in people but which they cannot study or work at achieving.
Human nature is what Heaven supplies.
Since the nature of people is bad, to become corrected they must be taught by teachers and to be orderly they must acquire ritual and moral principles.

Best Quotes