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Much knowledge will corrupt the heart,/When partly understood,/And so the people grow too smart,/But neither wise nor good.
Laozi
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Partial knowledge can lead to arrogance and moral decay.

This quote by Laozi highlights the danger of acquiring knowledge without understanding its deeper implications. It suggests that when individuals gain knowledge superficially, it can lead to intellectual pride and a lack of ethical grounding, resulting in people who may be clever but not truly wise or virtuous.

Themes

KnowledgeWisdomUnderstandingCorruptionEthics

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can serve as a reminder in educational settings about the importance of critical thinking.

More from Laozi

If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
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Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
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Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
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