There is no greater illusion than fear,
no greater wrong than preparing to defend yourself,
no greater misfortune than having an enemy.
 Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching (4th century BC). copy citation

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

Context

“and lets the Tao speak for itself. 46 When a country is in harmony with the Tao, the factories make trucks and tractors. When a country goes counter to the Tao, warheads are stockpiled outside the cities. There is no greater illusion than fear, no greater wrong than preparing to defend yourself, no greater misfortune than having an enemy. Whoever can see through all fear will always be safe. 47 Without opening your door, you can open your heart to the world. Without looking out your window, you can see the essence of the Tao.” source