Xunzi Quotes & Sayings

Misery is evil; quarreling, a misfortune. There is only one possibility of avoiding both: a clear division of society. [Otherwise] the strong tyrannize the weak, the intelligent frighten the stupid, the inferior resist the superior, and the young mock the old. — Xunzi

One must remember equality, yet also be aware of difference, for if the people are allowed to act as it pleases them without coming up against displeasure, if one gives rein to its desires without setting [any] limit, it becomes confused and can no longer take delight in anything. — Xunzi

You look upon the seasons with expectation and await them: wy not seize the seasonal opportunities and exploit them? — Xunzi

The noble person uses things; the lesser man is used by things. — Xunzi

The nature of man is evil; what is good in him is artificial. — Xunzi

Not having heard something is not as good as having heard it; having heard it is not as good as having seen it; having seen it is not as good as knowing it; knowing it is not as good as putting it into practice. — Xunzi

Man's nature is evil; goodness is the result of conscious activity. — Xunzi

Men of all social stations live together: they are equal in their desires, yet vary in their methods; they are equal in their passions, yet different in their intelligence; that is their nature-given vitality. — Xunzi

The drum is surely the lord of music, is it not? — Xunzi

Sacrifice is a state of mind in which our thoughts turn with longing [toward Heaven, the Ancestors], It is the supreme expression of loyalty, love, and respect. — Xunzi

If there is no dull and determined effort, there will be no brilliant achievement. — Xunzi

They are done merely for ornament ... the common people regard them as supernatural. — Xunzi