This excerpt is from Han Feizi · Employing People, a key chapter on the devastating damage emotional governance inflicts on ruler‑minister ties. Han Fei dissects how personal grievances fester into hidden resentment. He advances a core political‑philosophical view: rulers must not overburden subordinates nor base rewards and penalties on whims. Once values collapse, even…
This Han Feizi chapter stresses reliable legal institutions rather than rare virtuous individuals. Using metaphors like the tiger‑cage, it argues sound laws enable mediocre rulers to restrain villains and secure lasting political stability.
This Han Feizi excerpt advocates deterrence‑centered legislation. Using Robber Zhi and warriors as examples, it argues heavy penalties can restrain all people, making even violent and wicked individuals comply and bringing social fairness.