This chapter advances Mozi’s utilitarian critique of royal music. It argues music drains public funds, pulls labor from farming and governance, and fails to ease hunger or end wars, citing ancient edicts to demand a ban on extravagant musical performances.
This chapter records a debate between Mozi and Cheng Fan on music. Mozi argues elaborate court music worsens governance; sage kings only kept minimal music, as grand musical indulgence wastes resources and distracts rulers from state duties.