In an era of peace, one needs to be “square”, which means being strict and upright. In an era of turmoil, one needs to be “rounded”, which means being flexible and tactful.
When the state is rapidly declining, one needs to be both “square” and “round”. In dealing with good people, one should be tolerant; in dealing with bad people, one should be strict. In dealing with people in general, one needs to be both tolerant and strict.
处治世宜方，处乱世宜圆，处叔季之世当方圆并用；待善人宜宽，待恶人宜严，待庸众之人当宽严互存。
Notes
Era-adaptive strategies
- Orderly times: “Square” conduct (upholding rules, integrity) aligns with clear societal norms; excessive “roundness” invites opportunism.
- Chaotic times: “Round” adaptability (tactical retreat, indirect action) preserves safety; rigid “squareness” risks destruction.
- Declining eras: Hybrid approach — “square” internally (moral integrity), “round” externally (pragmatic navigation).
Person-responsive conduct
- Virtuous: Leniency honors their self-discipline, fostering goodwill.
- Wicked: Strictness checks harm; tolerance enables evil.
- Ordinary: Flexible firmness — forgiving flaws while guiding toward goodness.
Dynamic Equilibrium: Principle meets pragmatism
The core wisdom transcends binary thinking: Adaptation isn’t surrender, but strategic integrity. Balance “change” (methods) and “constancy” (principles) to survive complexity without losing oneself.
Ultimate Insight:
This passage from Tending the roots of wisdom tells us that complexity demands fluidity — neither break against reality nor dissolve into it.
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