To feed men and not to love them is to treat them as if they were barnyard cattle. To love them and not respect them is to treat them as if they were household pets.
MenciusRead
I dislike death, however, there are some things I dislike more than death. Therefore, there are times when I will not avoid danger.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of facing danger for the sake of greater values.
Mencius expresses a profound understanding of courage and the human condition, suggesting that while death is to be feared, there are circumstances that warrant risking one's life for principles or greater causes. His words highlight the idea that some ideals are so significant that they justify facing peril and overcoming fear.
Themes
CourageDeathDangerValuesPrinciples
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire a speech about bravery in the face of adversity.
More from Mencius
All quotes βIf the King loves music, it is well with the land.
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Let not a man do what his sense of right bids him not to do, nor desire what it forbids him to desire. This is sufficient. The skillful artist will not alter his measures for the sake of a stupid workman.
MenciusRead
Every duty is a charge, but the charge of oneself is the root of all others.
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Truth uttered before its time is dangerous.
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Where it is permissible both to die and not to die, it is an abuse of valour to die.
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That's why I survived because I still believe I've got something to say.
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Bear patiently, my heart, for you have suffered heavier things.
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Armed conflict between nations is a nightmare to me; but if I were convinced that any nation had made up its mind to dominate the world by fear of its force, I should feel that it must be resisted.
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