The quote emphasizes that an effective ruler does not rely on chance occurrences or good fortune but instead adheres to established principles and systems to govern wisely. This means that a leader must have clear methods, rules, and authority in place for governance rather than relying on unpredictable events.
Han Fei’s statement delves into the idea of consistent and reliable governance versus reliance on randomness or unexpected outcomes. He argues that true leadership involves the implementation of systematic approaches such as laws, strategies, and power dynamics to ensure stability and order. By doing so, leaders can create a predictable environment where citizens know what to expect from their government’s actions, fostering trust and compliance. This approach contrasts sharply with the idea of governing through ad-hoc measures or simply hoping for positive outcomes without proactive planning.
Han Fei was an influential Legalist philosopher during China's Warring States period (475-221 BCE). He lived in a time when numerous small states were constantly at war and needed strong governance to survive. His writings, which include this quote, reflect the need for rulers to maintain control through strict laws and centralized authority rather than personal virtue or benevolence. Han Fei's ideas were instrumental in shaping Legalist thought and later influenced Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s unification of China under a centralized autocratic rule.
