In governance, one of the most beneficial skills is the ability to evaluate people. Zhuangzi, borrowing the words of Confucius, once stated the art of understanding people: To understand a person’s heart is more challenging than reaching heaven. Even heaven has patterns of the four seasons, day and night, while humans? They are complex and ever-changing, with emotions deeply concealed.

​Today, we’ll hear a story of the famous general Wu Qi. During the reign of Duke Wu of the Wei State in the 4th century B.C., Wu served as magistrate of Xihe. He wanted to conquer a military fortress in the neighboring State of Qin. However, his troops were insufficient, and it was difficult to recruit additional forces on short notice. What should he do?

Today, we will talk about Mozi’s non-aggression. First, let’s get to know about Mozi. His given name was Di, and he was from the State of Song. He was a very famous philosopher during the early Warring States period (475-221 B.C.).

Han Feizi believed that to govern a country, strict laws and harsh punishments must be implemented. The laws should not favor the powerful, the regulations should not be bendable, and rewards and punishments should be clear and trustworthy.

Chinese culture has a unique understanding of rituals and music. Confucius once said: “Ritual, oh ritual, is it only about presenting jade and silk? Music, oh music, is it only about ringing bells and beating drums?” Is ritual just the act of offering precious gifts, and is music merely about the lively sounds of instruments? Or is there a deeper meaning to them?

​The wisdom of life is found in Chinese classics. Today, we discuss Taoist philosophy. How does Taoism view wealth, honor and prestige in life? Zhuangzi once said, “Those who attain the way forget the self.”

Today, let’s hear a story titled “The Joy of the Fish.” It comes from the “Autumn Water” chapter in the “Zhuangzi: Miscellaneous Chapters.”

Today, let’s hear a story about pretending competence. Chinese culture greatly values the seeking of truth from facts, knowing what one knows and admitting what one doesn’t know. This cultural concept is crucial for governance.