Sun Tzu puts forward seven criteria to compare rival sides, including virtuous rulers, capable generals and disciplined troops, to judge victory or defeat. He also notes leaving or staying based on whether a general adopts his strategies.
Han Feizi lists 47 signs of state ruin, from weak law to ministerial power. Rulers must use law to fix flaws and survive.
Han Fei cites history: over-powerful ministers and lords cause state collapse. Rulers must enforce strict laws, limit their wealth, troops and arms to keep power.