Mencius states scholars may take low-paid minor posts to escape poverty, as Confucius did managing stores and pastures. Two moral rules apply: low-ranking officials must not meddle in state affairs, while high officials shame themselves if they fail to uphold their ideals.
Mencius refutes the rumor that Baili Xi sold himself for sheepskins to herd cattle and seek office. He praises Baili Xi’s wisdom in abandoning a doomed lord and serving Duke Mu honorably, arguing virtuous men would never degrade themselves for power.
Mencius refutes fallacies about Shun’s reign, laying out a classic text-reading rule: grasp authors’ intent beyond literal words. He argues filial piety outweighs royal rank; as Son of Heaven, Shun still showed full reverence to his father Gusou.
Han Fei declares his duty: speaking without understanding is unwise, silence while knowing truth is disloyal. He risks death to speak honestly for the state.