Han Feizi argues self-interest drives all. Even wives and heirs may plot a ruler’s death. Rulers must enforce strict law and guard close allies.
Han Feizi warns rulers that trusting family – wives, sons – leads to control. Loyalty is rare; self-interest drives all.
Han Feizi identifies three usurpation risks: open, affair-based, punishment-based. Strong safeguards block them, securing royal power.
Han Feizi lists 47 signs of state ruin, from weak law to ministerial power. Rulers must use law to fix flaws and survive.
Han Feizi cites brutal regicides. Rulers without law and statecraft face worse fates than lepers at ministers’ hands.
Han Feizi warns slander can destroy even close bonds. Reformers like Shang Yang and Wu Qi perished due to treacherous ministers.
Han Feizi rejects empty traditional scholars. He defends strict laws and harsh punishments as necessary for order, even if unpopular.