# Zhuangzi: Rewards, punishment lowest form of education

2026-08-09T20:53:04+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi argued that rewards and punishment are the lowest form of education, challenging modern systems that rely on grades, rankings and detention. The Daoist thinker, who refused a prime minister's post to stay free, believed true learning requires inner change, not external control. The Times of India reports his ideas echo modern psychology experiments, such as Edward Deci's 1971 study at the University of Rochester, which found that paying people for enjoyable tasks reduced their later interest. Zhuangzi's warning remains relevant in workplaces and schools, where bonuses and performance plans can replace creativity with compliance.

## Coverage

- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/china/quote-of-the-day-by-zhuangzi-rewards-and-punishment-is-the-lowest-form-of-education-and-why-carrots-and-sticks-can-kill-the-desire-to-learn/articleshow/133071745.cms>

Tags: Daoism, education, motivation, psychology, Zhuangzi
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