The Power of Example: Correct Conduct Commands Obedience Without Orders

Confucius said: “If one’s person is correct, one governs without giving orders; if not correct, orders will not be followed.”

When a prince’s personal conduct is correct, his government is effective without the issuing of orders. If his personal conduct is not correct, he may issue orders, but they will not be followed.

其身正,不令而行;其身不正,虽令不从。

Source: The Analects, Zi Lu XIII, Chapter 6

Author: Confucius

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