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A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a…

“A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a liking for beautiful sights and sounds. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to immorality and lack of restriction, and any ritual principles and propriety will be abandoned.” quote by Xun Zi
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“A person is born with desires of the eyes and ears, and a liking for beautiful sights and sounds. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to immorality and lack of restriction, and any ritual principles and propriety will be abandoned.”

Xun Zi

About This Quote

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

Sensory desires can lead to moral decay if unchecked, causing abandonment of ritual and propriety.

In simple terms: Uncontrolled desires harm virtue.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑discipline over senses.

Themes

morality desire self‑control

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal habits
  • parenting
  • education

Key Concepts

human nature ethical conduct ritual

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance enjoyment and restraint?
  • What rituals guide your behavior?
A Different Perspective

Total suppression may cause repression.

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