An Analysis of the Contemporary Value of Pre-Qin Legalism from the Perspective of Comprehensively Implement the Rule of Law
Legalism originated in the Spring and Autumn period,and developed into a philosophical school with theoretical significance and practical value by the end of the Warring States period. Emphasizing pragmatism and efficiency,its core tenets in-clude"governing the country by law"and"rewarding the good and punishing the wicked". Although criticized for neglecting morali-ty and being overly harsh,its undeniable historical value lies in stabilizing social governance and consolidating long-term stability. The Legalists advocated concepts such as"adapting to the times and following the will of the people","letting the law take preced-ence over personal interests","enforcement without distinction",and"learning from officials". These ideas have corresponding reference significance for scientific legislation,strict law enforcement,fair judiciary,and universal compliance. To comprehensively implement the rule of law and build a modern socialist country with Chinese characteristics,we should draw on experiences from tra-ditional legal culture,ensuring legislation adapts to the times,is concise,and stable;enforcement is strictly based on the law,and violations are prosecuted;and judiciary is guided by the law as the criterion,ensuring equality for all. Emphasizing compliance with the law,promoting legal education,and constructing a legal social order from the smallest unit.
Pre-Qin legalismtraditional legal culturecomprehensively implement the rule of law