35 Quotes by Xun Zi

If what the heart approves conforms to proper patterns, then even if one's desires are many, what harm would they be to good order?

Whether the gentleman is capable or not, he is loved all the same; conversely the petty man is loathed all the same.

In antiquity the sage kings recognized that men's nature is bad and that their tendencies were not being corrected and their lawlessness controlled.

I once tried standing up on my toes to see far out in the distance, but I found that I could see much farther by climbing to a high place.

In order to properly understand the big picture, everyone should fear becoming mentally clouded and obsessed with one small section of truth.

If the impulse to daring and bravery is too fierce and violent, stay it with guidance and instruction.

The person attempting to travel two roads at once will get nowhere.

A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a liking for beautiful sights and sounds. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to immorality and lack of restriction, and any ritual principles and propriety will be abandoned.

The petty man is eager to make boasts, yet desires that others should believe in him. He enthusiastically engages in deception, yet wants others to have affection for him. He conducts himself like an animal, yet wants others to think well of him.