Lao Tzu
Ancient Chinese sage
Lao Tzu is the legendary Chinese philosopher credited with founding Taoism and writing the *Tao Te Ching*, a foundational text of Eastern philosophy.
The name means "Old Master." Whether he was a historical figure or a composite of several thinkers remains debated.
His teachings emphasize living in harmony with the Tao—the natural way of the universe—through simplicity, humility, and non-action.
- TaoNameless cosmic principle
- the wayMethod or path
- Tao Te ChingAncient wisdom text on virtue
- pathRoute for traveling
- waterClear essential liquid
Chinese philosophy · naturalness · going with the flow · simplicity · sage · non-attachment · Three Treasures · old master · Daoism · Warring States period · scroll · mindfulness · eco-philosophy · emptiness · robe · meditation · spontaneity · master
Lao TzuMachiavelli
Political realism's founding theorist
empire builders · Alexander the Great · conquerors · technocrats