Skip to content

not to prize articles which are difficult to procure is…

“not to prize articles which are difficult to procure is the way to keep them from becoming thieves;” quote by Lao Tzu
Download Open image
““not to prize articles which are difficult to procure is the way to keep them from becoming thieves;””

Lao Tzu

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Valuing scarce knowledge can make it feel forbidden, encouraging theft; appreciating accessibility prevents that.

In simple terms: Treat rare ideas as shared, not hoarded.

Key Takeaway

Share knowledge openly.

Themes

accessibility ethics knowledge sharing

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • library policy
  • intellectual property
  • team collaboration

Key Concepts

Taoism psychology of desire

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does openness affect desire?
  • What are the risks of hoarding information?
A Different Perspective

If something is too exclusive, people may covet it.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Lao Tzu

Explore all 434 Lao Tzu quotes

More Procure quotes

Browse all 4 Procure quotes