Mind-reading

Author: Ma Shuquan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-01-01
Features: The superior sage controls the heart, the inferior sage controls the power! Those who stand above us understand this supreme method of winning without fighting from the treasure trove of Chinese strategic studies. Li Yifu breaks down the seemingly complex and intricate "Art of Gaixin" into simple yet highly operational techniques across ten aspects: Gaixin (measuring the heart), Yuxin (dominating the heart), Qinxin (capturing the heart), Zongxin (releasing the heart), Duoxin ( the heart), and Zhuxin (destroying the heart). Li Yifu, originally from Yingzhou Raoyang (now Raoyang County, Hebei), later moved to Jianshan Yongtai (now Shehong County, Sichuan). Despite only hailing from a small bureaucratic family, he mastered the "wisdom of the tiny space" (Gaixin) and skillfully navigated human and worldly affairs, serving as prime minister twice during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Tang (Li Zhi). People described him as "silver-hearted and outwardly" (genuine in appearance but treacherous in heart), calling him "the human cat" or "Li the Cat." Due to his disdain for the core principles of the popular "Zhixue" (Stopping Learning) by the Confucian scholar Zongzi, he ultimately experienced rise and fall, dying in exile.
Throughout the long history of China, the "Art of Gaixin" has been revered as a powerful tool for psychological warfare and survival in social struggles, filled with mystery. How to psychologically dismantle others and conquer opponents—this is the most effective stratagem of wisdom. This principle may seem simple, but its practical execution is far from easy, which also explains the mediocrity of most people. It must be acknowledged that historical figures who achieved great things can all be called "masters of Gaixin and attacking the heart." Setting aside their personal experiences and social foundations, their shared trait is their mastery of psychological warfare. While one cannot choose their innate abilities, post-natal efforts can change one's destiny—all of which relies on intelligence. The "Art of Gaixin" is the pinnacle of wisdom. For those who aspire to success and upward mobility, understanding and mastering it is of paramount importance.