Quotes about Ethics

When you make a promise consistent with what is right, you can keep your word. When you show respect consistent with good taste, you keep shame and disgrace at a distance. When he in whom you confide is one who does not fail his friends, you may trust him fully.

What you dont want done to yourself, do not do to others.

The Master was entirely free of four faults: arbitrariness, inflexibility, rigidity, and selfishness.

If the people be led by laws, and uniformity sought to be given them by punishments, they will try to avoid the punishment, but have no sense of shame. 2. 'If they be led by virtue, and uniformity sought to be given them by the rules of propriety, they will have the sense of shame, and moreover will become good.

What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.

To rule a country of a thousand chariots, there must be reverent attention to business, and sincerity; economy in expenditure, and love for men; and the employment of the people at the proper seasons.

The Master said, "If a man of position [junzi] does not have integrity, he will not inspire awe.

The Master said, "When you meet persons of exceptional character think to stand shoulder to shoulder with them; meeting persons of little character, look inward and examine yourself.

Very few go astray who comport themselves with restraint.

Staying with good people is like entering a room with orchids. You won't notice the fragrance, but you'll be soaked in the scent. Staying with evil people is just like going inside a stinky fish store. You won't smell it after a while because you will blend with the stench. Keep red things and you'll turn red. Keep lacquer, and you'll turn black ...So a wise man should be careful of where he stays...

Practicing archery is like practicing to be a Gentleman. When you miss the bulls-eye, you look for the error in yourself.

A wise man is never cheated, a virtuous man is never worried and a courageous man is never afraid.