Quotes & anectdotes from
the wise,
the foolish,
the courageous &
the drunk

Zhuangzi Philosopher

  • Gender: Male
  • Citizenship: China
  • Born: 369 BCE
  • Died: 286 BCE

Zhuang Zhou, often known as Zhuangzi was an influential Chinese philosopher who lived around the 4th century BC during the Warring States period, a period corresponding to the summit of Chinese philosophy, the Hundred Schools of Thought. He is credited with writing—in part or in whole—a work known by his name, the Zhuangzi, which expresses a philosophy of skepticism, arguing that life is limited and knowledge to be gained is unlimited.

Men honor what lies within the sphere of their knowledge, but do not realize how dependent they are on what lies beyond it.

Cherish that which is within you, and shut off that which is without for much knowledge is a curse.

Great wisdom is generous petty wisdom is contentious.

I do not know whether I was then a man dreaming I was a butterfly, or whether I am now a butterfly dreaming I am a man.

Rewards and punishment is the lowest form of education.

Happiness is the absence of the striving for happiness.