Han Feizi

Author: Han Fei
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-01-01
Features: National Classics Library. This book comprehensively elaborates on the profound ideas and clear doctrines of the thinker Han Fei, while vividly showcasing the unique literary talent and sharp style of the writer Han Fei. The ideological theory of this book is rich and distinctive. Han Fei adhered to a progressive historical view, based on his understanding of the development process of human society from the "Ancient Times," "Middle Ages," "Late Antiquity" to the "Present," as well as the different characteristics of each historical period. He advocated "not expecting to restore the past, nor adhering to constant norms," and argued that "affairs should be adapted to the times, and measures should be suitable for the circumstances," pointing out that "if one wants to govern the people of the present age with the policies of the former kings, it is like grasping a tree stump," demonstrating a strong desire for social reform. In terms of political thought, Han Fei both criticized and absorbed the schools of pre-Qin Confucianism, Taoism, and Mohism, particularly selectively adopting and developing the early Legalist thought. He integrated the legal theory of Shang Yang, the technique theory of Shen Buhai, and the power theory of Shen Dao, proposing a complete and logically rigorous system of combining law, technique, and power in the autocratic rule of the monarch.