Laozi in 2025: How Would He Live Today?

Laozi (or Lao Tzu), the ancient Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism, is known for his wisdom on balance, nature, and effortless action (wu wei). His teachings, recorded in the Tao Te Ching, emphasise living in harmony with the natural flow of life. But what if he lived in the modern world - specifically in 2025? Would his ideas still hold up in a society driven by technology, consumerism, and constant busyness?

Laozi in the Digital Age

In 2025, smartphones, AI, and social media dominate daily life. People are more connected than ever, yet loneliness, stress, and anxiety are at all-time highs. Laozi, with his focus on simplicity and detachment, would likely warn against the overuse of technology. He might remind people that true wisdom comes from observing nature, not scrolling through endless news feeds.

Instead of competing for likes and attention, he would encourage people to embrace the wu wei approach - acting without force. Instead of chasing trends, he’d advise letting things unfold naturally. Perhaps he’d even live off-grid, in a quiet countryside home, away from the distractions of modern life.

Politics and Leadership

Governments today often function through force, control, and rigid policies. Laozi’s ideal leader, however, is one who governs subtly, allowing people to lead themselves. His famous quote, ‘The best leader is one whose existence is barely known’, would likely challenge today’s top-down power structures.

Would he comment on global conflicts, surveillance, or political corruption? Most likely, but not in a direct way. Instead of protests and debates, he might write a new version of the Tao Te Ching, filled with cryptic but powerful verses, subtly guiding society back towards balance and wisdom.

Consumerism and Money

The modern world is built on material desires - always wanting more, chasing the next upgrade, the next purchase. Laozi would see this as a trap. ‘He who knows he has enough is rich,’ he once said.

If he walked through the streets of London, he might shake his head at the rush for the latest gadgets, fast fashion, and corporate greed. Instead, he’d promote minimalism - living simply, needing little, and appreciating what already exists. Perhaps he’d be a quiet voice in the slow living and sustainability movements, teaching people how to detach from excess.

Health and Well-being

With rising levels of burnout, obesity, and mental health struggles, Laozi’s philosophy of balance would be more relevant than ever. His advice? Flow like water. Move naturally, eat mindfully, rest when needed, and stop forcing things.

Modern fitness culture often glorifies extremes - overtraining, strict diets, and punishing routines. Laozi would likely recommend Tai Chi, gentle walks, and listening to one’s body instead of chasing unrealistic fitness goals.

Spirituality in a Secular World

In an increasingly secular society, where traditional religions are declining, Laozi’s Taoist perspective might offer an alternative - a spirituality without dogma. Instead of rigid beliefs, he’d encourage people to observe the way nature works and align themselves with it.

Rather than trying to control life, he’d remind people to surrender to it. In a world obsessed with achievement and status, his wisdom could be a breath of fresh air - an antidote to the chaos of modern existence.

Conclusion

If Laozi lived in 2025, he might not lead a movement, start a business, or run a self-help podcast. More likely, he’d be a quiet wanderer, offering wisdom to those who happened to cross his path. He’d remind us that the world’s problems often come from overcomplication, and that true peace lies in simplicity, stillness, and allowing things to be as they are.

In a world that rushes forward at full speed, Laozi’s timeless teachings would still whisper the same truth: slow down, let go, and flow.