Xunzi

Confucian philosopher

Ancient influential 130 sayings

Sayings by Xunzi

What is learned should be put into practice.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 1, 'Exhortation to Learning')
Humorous Unverifiable

The nature of man is to desire gain.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 23, 'The Nature of Man is Evil')
Humorous Unverifiable

If the people have no faith in their rulers, the state cannot stand.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 9, 'The Regulations of a True King')
Humorous Unverifiable

The wise man is not confused by things.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 3, 'On Not Being Too Anxious')
Humorous Unverifiable

The gentleman is not afraid to admit his mistakes.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 2, 'On Self-Cultivation')
Humorous Unverifiable

A man without a teacher is like a blind man without a guide.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 1, 'Exhortation to Learning')
Humorous Unverifiable

The sage is the model for all mankind.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 23, 'The Nature of Man is Evil')
Humorous Unverifiable

The Way is not far from man; when a man practices the Way, he is near to it.

c. 3rd century BCE — Xunzi, 'Xunzi' (Chapter 1, 'Exhortation to Learning')
Humorous Unverifiable

The nature of man is such that he is born with a fondness for profit.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', emphasizing his belief in the inherent selfishness of human nature.
Controversial Unverifiable

Ritual principles are not something that have originated from the nature of man.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', arguing that morality must be taught rather than being innate.
Controversial Unverifiable

The gentleman uses the law to control his nature.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', advocating strict self-discipline.
Controversial Unverifiable

The way of the ancient kings is to prize ritual and despise violence.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', advocating structured social order over brute force.
Controversial Unverifiable

If men give rein to their feelings, obey their nature, they will assuredly come to strife and rapine.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', warning against unrestrained human impulses.
Controversial Unverifiable

The ruler is the boat; the common people are the water. The water can support the boat, but it can also overturn it.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', warning rulers about the power of the masses.
Controversial Unverifiable

The sage kings of antiquity did not inherit their positions; they seized them.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', justifying political upheaval.
Controversial Unverifiable

The nature of man is like a warped piece of wood—it must be steamed and bent before it can be made straight.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', arguing for strict education.
Controversial Unverifiable

He who knows himself is wise; he who knows others is enlightened.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', advocating self-awareness.
Controversial Unverifiable

The gentleman does not enter a state that is endangered, nor does he dwell in one that is chaotic.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', advocating political caution.
Controversial Unverifiable

The petty man is fond of making reckless statements and acting rashly.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', criticizing impulsiveness.
Controversial Unverifiable

The petty man is sure to gloss over his faults.

circa 300 BCE — From 'Xunzi', criticizing dishonesty.
Controversial Unverifiable