This Han Feizi passage examines “Mutual Suspicion Among Rivals”. Citing multiple Spring‑and‑Autumn power‑struggle cases, it argues blurred hierarchies breed deadly political turmoil, so wise rulers must enforce clear rank distinctions.
This excerpt is from Explanation Five in Han Feizi · Inner Congeries of Sayings I. Rulers should create informational fog and psychological suspense. By acting mysteriously or diverting attention, they keep ministers guessing, who then dare not slack or deceive out of awe and fear.
This excerpt is from Canon Five: Deceptive Commands in Han Feizi. Han Fei contends rulers should employ covert stratagems to create information asymmetry and psychological suspense. Keeping ministers guessing about his true intentions compels them to expose themselves and suspect one another, deterring reckless conduct.