SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

Legalism

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.6

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.6 re‑examines Duke Huan’s repeated visits to the recluse Xiao Chen Ji. It redefines benevolence‑righteousness politically, arguing honoring such an arrogant hermit undermines ruler‑subject hierarchy.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.5

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.5 critiques the well‑known Shi Kuang anecdote. It argues Duke Ping violated ruler‑principles and Shi Kuang breached ministerial etiquette, as ministers should remonstrate verbally instead of using physical force.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.4

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.4 disputes Confucius’ praise for Zhao Xiangzi’s reward of Gao He. It holds rewards must tie to concrete merit; merely observing basic ruler‑minister etiquette should not win top‑ranked recompense.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.3

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.3 critiques Guan Zhong’s advice to Duke Huan. It argues merely dismissing treacherous favorites is insufficient; sound institutions and reliable reward‑punishment systems are needed to block ministerial usurpation.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.2

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.2 advances the famous spear and shield paradox. It critiques Confucian moral example governance via Yao and Shun tales, arguing institutional rewards punishments outperform sages’ personal toil.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 36.1

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    This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 36.1 recounts the Chengpu‑battle story. It rebuts the traditional praise for Duke Wen’s reward practice, arguing rewards should match actual military achievements instead of hollow long‑term moral speeches.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 35.10

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    This Legalist Han Feizi‑Chapter 35.10 uses multiple anecdotes. It warns against corrupt middle‑level officials and contradictory governance, urging rulers to adopt consistent policies and proper techniques for effective administration.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 35.9

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    This Legalist excerpt from Han Feizi‑Chapter 35.9 advocates “governing officials rather than people”. With tree‑shaking and chariot metaphors, it warns against ruler’s micromanagement and stresses mastering statecraft to avoid ministerial usurpation.

  • Han Feizi – Chapter 35.8

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    This Han Feizi‑Chapter 35.8 Legalist collection of anecdotes warns rulers against lending real authority. It cautions against revealing simulated likes‑dislikes, showing how misplaced trust enables ministers to seize political power.