collective punishment

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 13.3

    In ancient times, Wu Qi explained to King Dao of Chu the customs of Chu: “High ministers hold excessive power, and too many nobles hold fiefdoms. This pressures the ruler above and oppresses the people below, a path to poverty and military weakness. We should revoke noble titles and stipends after three generations of…

  • The Compassionate Reformer: Emperor Wen of Han [Western Han]

    Introduction: This article profiles Emperor Wen of Han, a humble and compassionate reformer. He abolished collective punishment and cruel corporal penalties, inspired by a young girl’s plea. He cut taxes, practiced frugality, and cared for the vulnerable, laying the foundation for the golden “Rule of Wen and Jing.”