In governing a state, the sage does not rely on people doing good of themselves, but rather makes it so they cannot do wrong.

When the world was at peace, the people were few and the goods were plenty. Now, with many people and few goods, conflict is inevitable.

The law must be clear and the punishments certain. When punishments are certain, the people will not dare to break the law.

The ruler must hold the handles of reward and punishment. These are the two handles by which the ruler controls his ministers.