He who boasts of what he will do, succeeds in nothing. - Tao Te Ching No understanding of Chinese civilization is possible without a grasp of Taoism, the philosophy that has shaped not just Chinese spirituality but also art, science and politics. And it was in the Tao Te Ching, written around 300BC, that the fundamental beliefs of Taoism were first gathered by the sage Laozi. This short book went on to influence Chinese philosophy, religion and politics for thousands of years afterwards. Beautifully produced in traditional Chinese binding, Tao Wisdom offers more than 80 succinct quotes from key Taoist figures, with advice on how to live a simple, peaceful and harmonious life, and how to rid oneself of desires and free society of institutions that promote greed.