The noble person uses things; the lesser man is used by things.

Quarreling over food and drink, having neither scruples nor shame, not knowing right from wrong, not trying to avoid death or injury, not fearful of greater strength or of greater numbers, greedily aware only of food and drink - such is the bravery of the dog and boar.

A person is born with feelings of envy and hate. If he gives way to them, they will lead him to violence and crime, and any sense of loyalty and good faith will be abandoned.

Whether the gentleman is capable or not, he is loved all the same; conversely the petty man is loathed all the same.

They are done merely for ornament. ... the common people regard them as supernatural.

If knowledge and foresight are too penetrating and deep, unify them with ease and sincerity.

Men of all social stations live together: they are equal in their desires, yet vary in their methods; they are equal in their passions, yet different in their intelligence; that is their nature-given vitality.