Duke Ai asked You Ruo, “In this year of famine, state revenues are insufficient—what should I do?”You Ruo replied, “Why not implement the che system?”The Duke said, “Even with a 20% tax, I still don’t have enough—how can I possibly reduce it to 10%?”You Ruo answered, “If the people are prosperous, how could the…
Mencius said: “Trying to subdue others merely by displaying one’s own goodness has never truly won their submission. Only by using goodness to nurture and uplift others can one gain the willing allegiance of all under heaven. There has never been a ruler who became a true king without the heartfelt obedience of the…
Mencius said: “Ran Qiu served as steward to the powerful Ji family in Lu.Not only did he fail to help them improve their virtue, but he actually doubled their grain taxes.”