This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 44 classifies five minister‑types and five treacherous court tricks. It stresses rulers must master official‑assessment techniques, curb power‑usurping rivalry, rather than merely relying on personal virtue or frugality.
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.
This Legalist excerpt from Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 33.12 presents four historical stories. It explores risks of frank remonstrance, conflicts between strict law and family affection, and governance based on merit rather than private gratitude.
Confucius names Weizi, Jizi and Bigan the three benevolent men of the Shang. Though they took vastly different paths—fleeing, feigning madness, dying in remonstrance—all acted out of loyal care for their state, showing benevolence allows flexible expedient choices.
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.
by Han Fei Duke Ping of Jin was drinking with his officials. When he was thoroughly drunk and merry, he sighed and said: “Nothing is more joyful than being a ruler – no one dares to disobey a single word of mine!”