Believed that people act according to one principle, avoiding punishment.
Was a member of the aristocracy and believed that strict law was necessary to control society.
Was a part of the ruling Han family of China during the Warring States Period of Chinese history, when regional warlords were battling to control areas of the nation.
Was a follower of Confucian thinking for a time, and tried to travel teaching its precepts. Unfortunately, he had a significant stuttering problem and was not effective as a teacher.
Xun Zi (c. 310-237 BCE)
Primarily a Confucian scholar who believed that humans are innately selfish and evil and that the natural state of human societies is Anarchy, endless wars and chaos.
Was a strong influence on the thinking of Han Feizi.
Basic Philosophy
Fa (法)
The law code must be clearly written and publically available.
All people except the ruler are equal under the law.
Laws should reward those who follow them and punish severely those who do not.
Shu(術)
Morality is unimportant in Legalism.
The rulers should use special methods and “secrets” to make sure that they retain control of the state.
Shi (勢)
Legitimacy, charisma and power
It is the position of ruler, not the person, that holds power.
