"Human nature is evil, and goodness is caused by intentional activity"
- Xun Kuang
About this Quote
Xun Zi thought that humans are born with wicked tendencies which it is just through mindful effort and deliberate activity that goodness can be promoted. In other words, he saw goodness as something that should be actively cultivated and practiced instead of something inherent or quickly attained. This point of view shows his belief in the power of education, routine, and ethical discipline in forming human character and promoting ethical habits.
"Art is not merely an imitation of the reality of nature, but in truth a metaphysical supplement to the reality of nature, placed alongside thereof for its conquest"
"Habit is a second nature that destroys the first. But what is nature? Why is habit not natural? I am very much afraid that nature itself is only a first habit, just as habit is a second nature"