韩非子

Han Feizi

Chinese Philosophy · person

A Chinese philosopher (c. 280–233 BCE) who synthesized the ideas of earlier Legalist thinkers into a comprehensive political philosophy. A student of the Confucian scholar Xunzi, Han Feizi rejected his teacher's belief in the inherent goodness of human nature and argued instead that effective governance requires a clear system of laws, strict rewards and punishments, and an absolute concentration of power in the ruler. His writings, collected in the Han Feizi, are among the most important texts of Chinese political philosophy, known for their sharp analysis of power, leadership, and institutional design.

Within the vast Chinese philosophical tradition, from the Hundred Schools of Thought to the classical texts that shaped East Asian civilization, Han Feizi represents a key concept that continues to inform philosophical thought and practice today.

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4 related philosophical concepts
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What Are the Key Facts About Han Feizi?

  • Tradition: Chinese Philosophy
  • Chinese: 韩非子
  • Category: Person
  • Definition: A Chinese philosopher (c.

What Cards Are Related to Han Feizi?

Nature and Habit

Born close. Grown apart.

What Concepts Are Related to Han Feizi?

Legalism 法家
Entity Entity
Han Feizi is the most systematic Legalist philosopher
 Xunzi 荀子
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Han Feizi was a student of Xunzi before developing his Legalist philosophy
 Legalism 法家
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Han Feizi is the defining philosopher of Legalism
 Doctrine of the Mean 中庸
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Han Feizi's realism contrasts with the Confucian doctrine of the mean

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Further Reading and Sources

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Further Reading