Topic Question: To what extent is Lao-tzu in favor of military action? What seems to be his views about the military? (See Verse 31 (the link))

MY REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS ESSAY:

– include 3 quotes from the reading ( which is the link or png i sent, and if u cant open that I will copy and paste the reading its really short), and include an introduction with a thesis that answers the question correctly.

AND we had to do an outline and all i have is this:

Thesis:

The furthest extent to Lao Tzu’s favor in the military is if you were met with a dire situation you must approach it with great amount of sympathy

BP#1: 

Lao Tzu believes that military action instills  fear in humans and must only be enforced if necessary.

“Weapons are the tools of fear; a decent man will avoid them except in the direst necessity and, if compelled, will use them only with the utmost restraint.

Peace is his highest value.”

• Violence should not be used as the only option, but as a last resort

BP#2 

How can he feel peace and celebrate victory if it was at the hands of violence?

“He doesn’t wish them personal harm.

Nor does he rejoice in victory.

How could he rejoice in victory and delight in the slaughter of men? »

• Lao Tzu is a man filled with empathy towards humans. Although faced against the enemy, he cannot be satisfied with their victories if it results in great loss.