Tao Te Ching, Chapter 17
Lao Tzu
Trust is a reciprocal bond, not merely a personal attribute. Lao Tzu implies a social fabric where mutual trust is essential for harmony. In ancient China, governance was seen as an extension of personal morality. A ruler who couldn't trust his people would find himself isolated, eroding the very foundation needed for stability and peace. Trust, then, serves as a cornerstone for both personal relationships and the governance of society.