When people do not dread authorities, then a greater dread descends.
Interpretation
The quote warns that the absence of fear towards authority can lead to a more significant fear arising from other sources.
This quote by Laozi emphasizes the idea that when individuals stop fearing those in power, it opens the door to a more profound sense of dread that can emerge from chaos or lack of order. It's a reflection on the human condition and the balance between authority and the potential for disorder when that authority is no longer respected or feared.
In practice
In a discussion about political power and its implications, one might quote Laozi to illustrate the consequences of losing respect for authority.
If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
The real war poets are always war poets, peace or any time.
Nobody knows what you want except you. And nobody will be as sorry as you if you don't get it. Wanting some other way to live is proof enough of deserving it. Having it is hard work, but not having it is sheer hell.
To give one's life is a right only when one gives it unselfishly.
The volatile truth of our words should continually betray the inadequacy of the residual statement.
Be human in this most inhuman of ages; guard the image of man for it is the image of God.
Men of patriarchal cultures have been committing heinous acts in the name of their God ever since they created a god for themselves. It seems that the earlier, goddess-oriented, nature-centered religions were far less cruel.
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