貞觀政要

Introduced to Emperor Taizong and his reflections on the principles of ruling effectively. He instructs his advisors about the need to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain and discusses the characteristics that define wise and foolish rulers. A prominent advisor, Wei Zheng, responds with wisdom from historical precedent, advising on the value of listening to varied opinions and the risks of being overly reliant on flattery. Through this exchange, the opening portion sets the stage for themes of moral integrity, the necessity of self-reflection in leadership, and the importance of maintaining trust between a ruler and their subjects.