When they think that they know the answers,
people are difficult to guide.
When they know that they don't know,
people can find their own way.
 Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching (4th century BC). copy citation

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Author Lao Tzu
Source Tao Te Ching
Topic guide thought
Date 4th century BC
Language English
Reference
Note Translated by Stephen Mitchell
Weblink https://terebess.hu/english/tao/mitchell.html

Context

“of who they have always been. He cares about nothing but the Tao. Thus he can care for all things. 65 The ancient Masters didn't try to educate the people, but kindly taught them to not-know. When they think that they know the answers, people are difficult to guide. When they know that they don't know, people can find their own way. If you want to learn how to govern, avoid being clever or rich. The simplest pattern is the clearest. Content with an ordinary life, you can show all people the way back to their own true nature.” source