author
Yang Shang
d. -338
A hard-driving statesman and political thinker from ancient China, this controversial reformer helped transform Qin into the power that would later unify the country. His name is closely tied to Legalist ideas about strict laws, rewards, and state strength.
2 Audiobooks
About the author
Born around 390 BCE in the state of Wey, he later served the ruler of Qin and became one of the most consequential political reformers of the Warring States period. He is widely known as Shang Yang, though sources also refer to him as Wei Yang or Gongsun Yang.
He pushed through major changes in Qin's government and society, including stricter laws, administrative reorganization, and policies that rewarded military achievement and agricultural production. These reforms greatly strengthened Qin and helped lay the groundwork for its eventual conquest of rival states and the unification of China.
Shang Yang remains a deeply debated figure. Admired by some as a brilliant architect of state power and criticized by others for his harsh methods, he is also associated with the text now known as The Book of Lord Shang.