The thought of "rule of law" in China's traditional culture is the highest form of legalists' achievements, and it is also a prominent symbol that legalists are called "outstanding scholars". Even after the pre-Qin period, Confucianism occupied the dominant position, and the spirit of rule of law pursued by legalists still had a long-term impact on later generations. The historical traces of the rule of law that the sages have been thinking hard and striving for are worthy of our pursuit and investigation, so as to make the foundation of today's rule of law construction more dignified and profound.

Put forward the idea and theory of rule of law

The idea of rule of law, which is opposite to Confucian "rule by courtesy" and "rule by virtue", was gradually formed in the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period. Han Feizi said: "The rule of law is the only way to rule the people." Shang Yang said in Chen Shujun, Shang Jun: "The rule of the world is also governed by the rule of law." "Those who can lead their country. It can be seen that Legalists are full of confidence in "ruling the country according to law", and they can unify government decrees, centralize authority, and manage the country by measures.

(A) Pre-Qin Legalists thought of the rule of law. Legalism is a school that represents the emerging landlord class and advocates "ruling the country according to law" during the Warring States Period. Their representatives are Li Kui, Wuqi, Shang Yang, Shen Dao, Shen Buhai and Han Fei. Guan Zhong, Zi Chan and Deng at the end of the Spring and Autumn Period were pioneers of legalism, while Han Fei at the end of the Warring States Period was a master of legalism. Legalist rule of law means "rule of law".