This Legalist segment from Han Feizi ‑ Chapter 32.4 argues rewards and honors must follow legal standards. It criticizes over‑honoring reclusive scholars, warning they discourage farming‑fighting and harm state strength.
Rebel Bixi invited Confucius, who intended to go despite Zilu’s protest citing his old moral rule. Confucius claimed virtuous hearts stay untainted amid corruption and refused to stay idle like a useless gourd, showing his urge to spread the Dao though he never actually went.
In 189 AD, Dong Zhuo marched into Luoyang, seized control of the imperial court, deposed Emperor Shao, and installed Emperor Xian, marking the beginning of his tyrannical rule. His usurpation sparked outrage among the regional governors and warlords across eastern China.