This Legalist excerpt from Han Feizi ‑ Chapter32.2 urges rulers to adopt practical utility as their judging standard. It condemns empty sophistry and hollow doctrines, stressing real results over mere verbal victories.
This is Explanation Six from Han Feizi: Inner Congested Sayings, Part II. Han Fei reveals a political law: a foe’s deadliest attack is not military invasion, but espionage and stratagems to manipulate a ruler’s official appointments. Enemies seek to muddle the ruler’s judgment and steer his decisions astray.
Centered on “valuing righteousness”, this chapter argues righteousness surpasses life and the world. It records Mozi’s travels, rebuts superstition, stresses words must guide action, and advocates frugality and merit-based governance.
Mencius puts forward his core people-first idea: people rank highest, state shrines second, rulers least. Leaders who lose public support may be replaced; even state deities can be discarded if they fail to protect people from disasters.
This Han Feizi passage stresses public-private separation. Rulers must enforce strict laws and rewards/punishments, curbing private favors to maintain order.