Chapter 75

The people suffer from famine because of the multitude of taxes

consumed by their superiors. It is through this that they suffer

famine.

The people are difficult to govern because of the (excessive)

agency of their superiors (in governing them). It is through this

that they are difficult to govern.

The people make light of dying because of the greatness of their

labours in seeking for the means of living. It is this which makes

them think light of dying. Thus it is that to leave the subject of

living altogether out of view is better than to set a high value on

it.

Commentary

Source: Paul Carus (1913) - Chapter heading

HARMED THROUGH GREED.

Philosophical Insight

Source: Paul Carus (1913) - Canon of Reason and Virtue

1. The people hunger because their superiors consume too many taxes; therefore they hunger. The people are difficult to govern because their superiors are too meddlesome; therefore they are difficult to govern. The people make light of death on account of the intensity of their clinging to life; therefore they make light of death. 2. He who is not bent on life is worthier than he who esteems life. Next: 76. Beware of Strength | « Previous: The Canon of Reason and Virtue (Tao te Ching): The Old P...