from Chapter VII, How To Govern, Chuang Tzŭ Chien Wu meeting the eccentric Chieh Yü, the latter enquired, saying, "What did Jih Chung Shih teach you?" "He taught me," replied Chien Wu, "about the laws and regulations which princes evolve, and which he said none would venture not to hear and obey." "That is a false teaching indeed," replied Chieh Yü. "To attempt to govern mankind thus,—as well try to wade through the sea, to hew a passage through a river, or make a mosquito fly away with a mountain! The government of the truly wise man has no concern with externals. He first perfects himself, and then by virtue thereof he is enabled to accomplish what he wants.” Question Use the passage to answer the question. Which Daoist belief about leadership is discussed in this passage? (1 point) Responses the idea that rulers must enforce harsh laws to maintain order and harmony the idea that rulers must enforce harsh laws to maintain order and harmony the idea that leaders should take little action and let people live a simple life the idea that leaders should take little action and let people live a simple life the idea that government is harmful to society and should be stopped the idea that government is harmful to society and should be stopped the idea that leaders are responsible for promoting traditional roles and values the idea that leaders are responsible for promoting traditional roles and values Skip to navigation
The Daoist belief about leadership discussed in this passage is the idea that leaders should take little action and let people live a simple life. This is evident in Chieh Yü's statement that wise leaders do not concern themselves with external laws and regulations, but instead focus on perfecting themselves through virtue in order to accomplish their goals. This reflects the Daoist concept of wu-wei, or non-action, where leaders are encouraged to act in a natural and effortless manner, allowing things to unfold naturally.
