When the government is muddle-headed, the people are simple and honest. When the government is clear-cut, the people are discontented.
Founder of Taoism
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 58
6th century BCE (approximate)
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"The sage rules by emptying their minds and filling their bellies, by weakening their wills and strengthening their bones."
Shocking"The sage is sharp but does not cut, pointed but does not pierce, forthright but does not offend, bright but does not dazzle."
Philosophical"The people are hungry: it is because those in authority eat up too much in taxes."
Controversial"A multitude of words is tiresome, unlike remaining centered."
Humorous"The sage is always without ambition."
Strange & Unusual