韩非子
Han Feizi
Chinese Philosophy · personA 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.
故治民无常，唯法为治。
— Han Feizi, 心度 (Xin Du) chapter — on the principle that law, not moral example, governs the people
What Are the Key Facts About Han Feizi?
- Tradition: Chinese Philosophy
- Chinese: 韩非子
- Category: Person
- Definition: A Chinese philosopher (c.
What Concepts Are Related to Han Feizi?
Legalism 法家Frequently Asked Questions About Han Feizi
Who was Han Feizi?
Han Feizi (c. 280–233 BCE) was the foremost Legalist philosopher, a prince of Han whose writings synthesized fa, shu, and shi; he influenced the Qin unification.
What did Han Feizi teach?
That the ruler should govern by impersonal law and technique, not personal virtue; people are moved by reward and punishment, so institutions—not persuasion—secure order.
What are his famous analogies?
He uses the 'two handles' (reward and punishment) as the ruler's tools, and compares the people to subjects who obey weights and measures, not speeches.
What happened to him?
He was sent to Qin, won the king's favor, but was slandered by Li Si (his former classmate) and forced to commit suicide in 233 BCE.