"Governing a great nation is like cooking a small fish - too much handling will spoil it."

Politics

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Insight & Reflection

Words carry weight, and Lao Tzu's insight into politics is no exception. It serves as a gentle reminder that amidst the chaos of modern life, timeless wisdom still holds the power to guide our decisions and clarify our values.

About Lao Tzu

Laozi is the name traditionally given to an ancient Chinese philosopher, also identified as Li Er or Lao Dan, who is regarded as the author or originating teacher associated with the Tao Te Ching, one of the foundational texts of Taoism. Traditional accounts place him in the 6th century BC state of Chu during China's Spring and Autumn period, describe him as a keeper of archival records at the Zhou court, and remember him as an elder contemporary of Confucius. Modern scholars remain divided over his identity, dates, and precise relationship to the received text: some regard the traditional Laozi as largely or wholly legendary, while others consider a historical Lao Dan plausible and accept the tradition that he was a senior contemporary of Confucius.

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Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the ShortQuote Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by Lao Tzu

"Wisdom principle 89 tells us that the journey of life is lesson 16."

— Lao Tzu
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"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading."

— Lao Tzu
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"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you."

— Lao Tzu
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"Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it."

— Lao Tzu
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More about Politics

"The old saying that war is a racket has taken on an even more shameful meaning."

— David Hackworth
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"We would all like to vote for the best man but he is never a candidate."

— Kin Hubbard
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"Priorities like winning the War on Terror and providing tax relief that will keep our economy growing strong."

— Dennis Hastert
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"The Nobel Peace Prize opened up a door in my heart."

— Aung San Suu Kyi
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