Xunzi's 'Jie Bi' (Unveiling Concealment): On the Wholeness of the Dao, Cognitive Limitation, and the Fortune of Being Unobstructed
This paper offers an in-depth interpretation of the 'Jie Bi' chapter in Xunzi, investigating the epistemological origins of the 'calamity of obstruction' described by the Pre-Qin philosophers. By analyzing the concept that 'the Dao is constant in its entirety yet utterly transformative,' the essay reveals the dilemma of human cognition being fixated on 'a single corner' and elucidates the transcendental value of Confucius's 'benevolence and wisdom unhindered,' aiming to understand how to escape cognitive bias.
Section 1: The Political Theory of Master Shenzi’s "Technique" and "Power"
"Master Shenzi was obstructed by Power, unaware of Wisdom." (申子蔽于埶而不知知。)
Master Shenzi, or Shen Buhai, was a prime minister in the State of Han during the Warring States period and an important Legalist representative. Master Shenzi’s core assertion was "Technique" (Shu, 术)—the arts and methods by which the ruler controls his ministers. In Master Shenzi’s thought, "Power" (Shi, 埶, often written 势) was the foundation upon which the ruler implemented his "Technique."
The character "Shi" (Shi, 埶) has multiple meanings in the pre-Qin context:
First, Position/Status. Referring to the exalted position occupied by the ruler. It is because the ruler occupies the highest seat of power that he can exercise authority and issue commands.
Second, Authority/Influence. Referring to the power and influence derived from that position. Authority is the functional manifestation of status—having a position naturally confers a degree of influence.
Third, Situation/Momentum. Referring to favorable objective conditions and circumstances. The "Shi" in "guiding according to the situation" (Yin Shi Li Dao, 因势利导) carries this meaning.
Master Shenzi mainly focused on the first two meanings—status and authority. He argued that the reason a ruler can govern is fundamentally not because the ruler is personally wise, but because he occupies the highest position of power. As long as he skillfully utilizes the authority granted by this position, even a ruler of average talent can manage his ministers and govern the state.
This perspective has a degree of political realism. Under a centralized autocratic system, a ruler's power indeed largely derives from his institutional position (status) rather than his personal ability. A mediocre ruler in a high position might wield far more influence than a worthy man who lacks such a position. Thus, from the perspective of power dynamics, "Power" is indeed an indispensable factor.