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23. Ethics / C. Virtue Theory / 2. Elements of Virtue Theory / g. Desires

[the raw desire for self-indulgence]

1 idea
There is no crime greater than having too many desires [Laozi (Lao Tzu)]
     Full Idea: There is no crime greater than having too many desires.
     From: Laozi (Lao Tzu) (Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) [c.530 BCE], II.XLVI.104)
     A reaction: It seems harsh to call this a 'crime', given that no one is likely to choose to have 'too many' desires. The crime is in deciding to stimulate desire to excess, or deciding to show no sensible restraint.