According to the philosophy of the Laozi, people would be better off if they did what?

According to the philosophy of Laozi, as expressed in Taoism and the foundational text "Tao Te Ching," people would be better off if they embraced the concept of Wu Wei or "non-action" and followed the path of Tao (the Way). Here are some key principles:

1. Harmony with the Tao: Laozi emphasized living in harmony with the Tao, which represents the natural order of the universe. It involves aligning oneself with the natural flow of life rather than resisting it.
2. Wu Wei (Non-Action): Wu Wei is the principle of effortless action or non-action. It doesn't mean complete inactivity but rather refers to acting in a way that is spontaneous, effortless, and in accordance with the natural flow of events.
3. Simplicity and Humility: Laozi advocated for simplicity and humility, encouraging people to let go of desires and ego-driven ambitions. By embracing simplicity, individuals could find contentment and avoid unnecessary struggles.
4. Embracing Paradox: Laozi often presented paradoxical statements to convey deeper truths. He emphasized the interconnectedness of opposites and the idea that apparent contradictions can coexist.

The philosophy of Laozi encourages individuals to let go of excessive striving, ego, and desires, and instead, to cultivate a state of inner calm, simplicity, and alignment with the natural order. The ultimate goal is to find balance and harmony in life.