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Vulgar Attenuation

"When the Great Tau is missed, then men pass on to philanthropy and justice. It is after wisdom has conferred renown, that there are great shams. After discord has arisen in families, what are called filial duty and fatherly compassion begin. And it is not till a nation has got into a disordered state that there are patriots (faithful ministers)."

Author

Lao Tzu

All Translations

English

"When the Great Tau is missed, then men pass on to philanthropy and justice. It is after wisdom has conferred renown, that there are great shams. After discord has arisen in families, what are called filial duty and fatherly compassion begin. And it is not till a nation has got into a disordered state that there are patriots (faithful ministers)."

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