Aristocratic Leader

Essay 2: Interrpreting Lao-Tzu’s Work

We have been reading through Lao-Tzu’s Thoughts from the Tao Te-Ching and we have been trying together to figure out what it all means. And we have been trying to find modern value in the advice given to an Aristocratic Leader even though we live in an era of elected political representatives.

Keep looking to find quotes you like. See which one’s make the most sense. Read a few of them out loud to see if any of them click with you, kind of like the way that one quote relating to a Futurama episode clicked with me.

You Tasks:

Find two meaningful statements with different intentions from Lao-Tzu’s Thoughts from the Tao Te-Ching:

Conclude with an assessment of these two statements

MLA Format

2 Outside Sources

2-3 Pages

(2.5 recommended)

Requirements: 2-3pgs

Answer preview

There is a connection between the two statements written by Lao Tzu. The relationship is that a wise ruler will free the people from desiring more by keeping them satisfied and content in their homeland. A leader who confines the country’s people and limits their interest in other states will avoid any form of envy or chaos from outside (Piacente 51). Another connection is that over-esteeming great men make the people powerless; thus, they will follow the rules and remain confined in their homeland.

Conclusion

The philosophies presented by Lao Tzu have unrealistic aspects. The first statement is beneficial to society because it will prevent envy and fights. However, some people naturally desire to achieve more in life. In the second statement, if the ruler governs wisely, the people will

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Aristocratic Leader
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