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Mencius – Chapter 2.16 When ritual becomes a political tool: Zang Cang vs. Mencius
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Duke Ping of Lu was about to set out when his favorite courtier, Zang Cang, asked: “Usually, Your Lordship informs the officials of your destination before leaving. Now your carriage is ready, yet no one knows where you’re going. May I ask?”
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Mencius – Chapter 2.15 To Flee or to Fight?
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Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “Teng is a small state. We’ve exhausted every effort to serve the large states, yet we still cannot escape their aggression. What should we do?”
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Mencius – Chapter 2.14 Moral legacy over military fear
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Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “The people of Qi are building a fortress at Xue, and I am deeply afraid. What should I do?”
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Mencius – Chapter 2.13 Defense strategy for small states
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Duke Wen of Teng asked Mencius: “Teng is a small state, squeezed between the great powers of Qi and Chu. Should we submit to Qi, or align ourselves with Chu?”
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Mencius – Chapter 2.11 Moral legitimacy over military might
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After Qi conquered Yan, the feudal lords began plotting to rescue Yan. Alarmed, King Xuan of Qi asked Mencius, “Many states are now scheming to attack me – what should I do?”