In the history of the Qin Dynasty, the attitude of Ying Zheng (also known as the First Emperor) towards the two representatives of Legalism, Li Si and Han Fei, has always been a topic of academic discussion. Although Han Fei was the mastermind of Legalist thought, it was Li Si who became the more trusted and relied-upon advisor of Ying Zheng on the political stage of the Qin Dynasty. This article will analyze Ying Zheng's different attitudes towards Li Si and Han Fei, and explore the political considerations behind this choice.

I. The Talents and Limitations of Han Fei

As an important figure of Legalism, Han Fei possessed profound thought and rigorous theory. However, his life was not long enough for him to witness the unification of the Qin Dynasty. Han Fei's premature death meant that he was unable to apply his theories to the political practice of the Qin Dynasty personally.

II. Li Si's Political Practice and Contributions

Compared to Han Fei, Li Si had a longer and more active political career in the Qin Dynasty. He not only participated in the unification wars of the Qin Dynasty, but also played an important role in the political construction after the unification. Li Si's policy suggestions and reform measures, such as the implementation of the county-prefecture system and the standardization of weights and measures, were strongly supported and implemented by Ying Zheng.

III. Ying Zheng's Preference for Li Si

The reason why Ying Zheng preferred Li Si was, on the one hand, because Li Si had proven his ability in practice, and on the other hand, because Li Si's thoughts and strategies were more aligned with Ying Zheng's ruling needs. Li Si's pragmatism and political flexibility enabled him to better adapt to Ying Zheng's ruling style and solve practical problems for him.

IV. The Status of Li Si and Han Fei in Ying Zheng's Heart

Although Han Fei's Legalist thought had a profound impact on the Qin Dynasty, in Ying Zheng's heart, Li Si held a more special position. Li Si was not only his policy executor but also his trusted aide. In Ying Zheng's view, Li Si's contributions lay not only in his wisdom and strategy but also in his consolidation of the ruling foundation of the Qin Dynasty.

Conclusion:

Overall, Ying Zheng's preference for Li Si was not arbitrary but based on Li Si's excellent performance in actual politics and his significant contributions to the rule of the Qin Dynasty. Although Han Fei's theory had a profound influence, Li Si's role was more direct and apparent in practical politics. Through this historical phenomenon, we can gain a deeper understanding of Ying Zheng's political decision-making and personnel selection criteria, as well as the status and role of Legalist thought in the political practice of the Qin Dynasty.

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