SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 27.2

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    Juan

    This passage is excerpted from Han Feizi · Employing People, the most pivotal chapter where Han Fei expounds the idea that institutions are superior to individual intellect. Through stark contrasts, he shatters the romantic illusion of “sage‑king governance” and articulates a fundamental political‑philosophical thesis: a sound institution is not a crutch for geniuses, but…

  • 万无一失 (wàn wú yī shī)

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    Ana

    Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 万无一失Pinyin: wàn wú yī shīLiteral Meaning: Out of ten‑thousand attempts, not a single failure occurs. Figurative definition To have absolute certainty; no possibility of mistakes or mishaps. It describes a plan or action so well‑prepared that failure is virtually impossible.English equivalents: no chance of going wrong, foolproof, absolutely safe, a…

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 27.1

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    Juan

    This passage comes from Han Feizi · Employing People, a core chapter in which Han Fei discusses how rulers can select and administer talents in a rational manner. He lays out the ultimate insight of Legalist philosophy on personnel management, and paints a picture of an ideal bureaucratic system with well‑defined powers and responsibilities,…

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 26.3

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    Juan

    This Han Feizi chapter stresses reliable legal institutions rather than rare virtuous individuals. Using metaphors like the tiger‑cage, it argues sound laws enable mediocre rulers to restrain villains and secure lasting political stability.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 26.2

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    Juan

    This Han Feizi excerpt advocates deterrence‑centered legislation. Using Robber Zhi and warriors as examples, it argues heavy penalties can restrain all people, making even violent and wicked individuals comply and bringing social fairness.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 26.1

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    Juan

    This Han Feizi chapter describes sage‑king legislation with motivating rewards and overcoming violence. A sound system creates ruler‑subject harmony, inspiring loyal, courageous subjects so the ruler may govern securely without worry.