Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
Han Fei states rulers must hold all power. Losing authority lets ministers usurp control, bringing ruin to the state.
Han Fei stresses law as the impartial governance standard. It curbs ministerial encroachment, treats nobles and commoners equally, and secures supreme monarchical power.
Han Feizi argues rulers cannot supervise all personally. Replace personal checks with laws, strict rewards and punishments to control officials and secure power.
Han Feizi defines the ideal minister: fully loyal, obedient, law-abiding, no private ambition. Reject self-seeking scholars to secure absolute monarchical power.
Han Feizi argues that private cliques ruin states. Rulers must govern by law, not favor or reputation, to stop collusion and secure power.