Explaining Laozi

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.11

    This Han Feizi passage states success comes from following objective principles, not power or wealth. Ignoring reason leads to ruin; people have long strayed from this path.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.10

    This Han Feizi excerpt completes the fortune‑misfortune dialectic. Blessing breeds wealth and arrogance, leading to reckless conduct, failure, and hidden misfortune.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.9

    This Han Feizi passage explains the Daoist dialectic: misfortune sparks vigilance, upright conduct, and rational thought, ultimately leading to blessing and success.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.8

    This Han Feizi excerpt defines the “great man” as wise. It teaches choosing genuine sincerity and rational principle over superficial ritual and impulsive action.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.7

    This Han Feizi passage criticizes groundless foresight as empty cleverness. Using Zhan He’s cow anecdote, it argues true wisdom comes from direct observation, not speculation.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.6

    This Han Feizi excerpt argues true virtue lies in inner sincerity, not superficial ritual. Elaborate etiquette breeds conflict, while genuine substance needs no adornment.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.5

    This Han Feizi passage frames ritual as inner feeling’s outer form. It outlines the Dao-virtue-benevolence-righteousness-ritual order, stressing true ritual is spiritual self-cultivation.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.4

    This Han Feizi excerpt defines righteousness as rule-based, purposeful conduct. It upholds social hierarchy and proper roles, distinct from spontaneous benevolence.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 20.3

    This Han Feizi excerpt defines true benevolence. It is spontaneous inner care for others, free from calculation or reward-seeking, distinct from performative kindness.