This Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 46 condemns reversed social values in governance. It warns private morality and factions erode royal power, advising rulers to prioritize impartial state law rather than unregulated personal reputations for political stability.
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!”
by Han Fei There was a man in the state of Song who sold wine. He measured his wine very fairly, treated customers politely, made excellent wine, and hung his shop sign high. Yet his wine remained unsold and turned sour.