Section 57
Chapter 57 explained simply
Tao Te Ching by Laozi
Original excerpt
Excerpt preview
1. A state may be ruled by (measures of) correction; weapons of war may be used with crafty dexterity; (but) the kingdom is made one's own (only) by freedom from action and purpose. 2. How do I know that it is so? By these facts:--In the kingdom the multiplication of prohibitive enactments increases…
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Public-domain original
57. 1. A state may be ruled by (measures of) correction; weapons of
war may be used with crafty dexterity; (but) the kingdom is made one's
own (only) by freedom from action and purpose.
2. How do I know that it is so? By these facts:--In the kingdom the
multiplication of prohibitive enactments increases the poverty of the
people; the more implements to add to their profit that the people
have, the greater disorder is there in the state and clan; the more
acts of crafty dexterity that men possess, the more do strange
contrivances appear; the more display there is of legislation, the
more thieves and robbers there are.
3. Therefore a sage has said, 'I will do nothing (of purpose), and the
people will be transformed of themselves; I will be fond of keeping
still, and the people will of themselves become correct. I will take
no trouble about it, and the people will of themselves become rich; I
will manifest no ambition, and the people will of themselves attain to
the primitive simplicity.'
Public-domain original text shown for study context.
Simple English explanation
Restrained governing lets people flourish. Use fewer controls where trust and clarity can work. Too many prohibitions can create more evasions.
1-minute summary
Chapter 57 explains that restrained governing lets people flourish. In practice, use fewer controls where trust and clarity can work. It also warns that too many prohibitions can create more evasions. The useful lesson is to make the wise move early, while the situation is still small enough to guide.
Key takeaways
- Restrained governing lets people flourish.
- Use fewer controls where trust and clarity can work.
- Too many prohibitions can create more evasions.
- Use the idea in one concrete decision today.
Modern example
A company replaces a heavy approval process with clear principles and audits.
For kids
Choose the simple, kind, and steady way when things feel confusing.