the truth is in the details

A bunch of wise men were discussing a board range of topics when they came to the topic of what is the most powerful tool to have. Lao-tzu was among them.
"Data is power," said of the men.
"Information is power," said another.
"Knowledge is power," shouted one.
"Understanding is power," cried the leader.
"Wisdom is power," said the leader of the discussion to which everyone agree with him.
Upon hearing this Lao-Tzu ask, "why do you seek power?"

I don't know if this story actually makes sense because I just made it up. There's probably some truth to it. Now, by using the character of Lao-tzu, people might think that this is a Taoist tale. I believe there is a Taoism element to it, but who knows. I don't really know anything of Taoism. I just think that the character of Lao-tzu fits the tale. Could you see Jesus or Buddha actually saying something like that? The answer is that they both did say something to that effect, but the way that the religions they founded turned out, I think that the case anymore. Is this a complete statement of fate? No, i don't think (or hope) so. Does this sum up everything about life? No, but I think that it leads you in the right direction.