Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature
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Gongsun Chou asks Mencius to simplify the lofty Way for ordinary people. Mencius refuses to lower moral standards, comparing teachers to skilled craftsmen. He uses heuristic teaching, holding the Middle Way for capable learners to follow.
Han Feizi argues that private cliques ruin states. Rulers must govern by law, not favor or reputation, to stop collusion and secure power.