Human nature refers to what is in people but which they cannot study or work at achieving.
Category Archive: Xun Kuang
I once tried thinking for an entire day, but I found it less valuable than one moment of study.
Quarreling over food and drink, having neither scruples nor shame, not knowing right from wrong, not trying to avoid death or injury, not fearful of greater strength or of greater numbers, greedily aware only of food and drink – such is the bravery of the dog and boar.
If knowledge and foresight are too penetrating and deep, unify them with ease and sincerity.
Sacrifices are concerned with the feelings of devotion and longing.
If the quickness of the mind and the fluency of the tongue are too punctilious and sharp, moderate them in your activity and rest.
A person is born with feelings of envy and hate. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to violence and crime, and any sense of loyalty and good faith will be abandoned.
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?
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.
Human nature is evil, and goodness is caused by intentional activity.