A Mirror of the Times: What Constitutes True Shame in Prosperity and Adversity

Confucius said: Poverty under good rule is shameful; wealth under bad rule is also shameful.

When a country is well governed, poverty and a mean condition are things to be ashamed of. When a country is ill governed, riches and honor are things to be ashamed of.

邦有道,贫且贱焉,耻也;邦无道,富且贵焉,耻也。

Source: The Analects, Tai Bo VIII, Chapter 13

Author: Confucius

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