ABSTRACT
Since government is a particular thing, it has a defining principle, which turns out to be no less than the governing philosophy of the ancient sage kings-a state harmonized by stability, prosperity, and benevolent rule. The ruler, as well as his advisors, ministers, and officials, must realize his own nature by investigating its principle, but there is the additional task of understanding and implementing the principle of good government, the key to harmonizing the relations of Heaven and Earth. The symbolic act of bringing kingly virtue into harmony with Heaven and Earth was the annual rite of sacrifice at the Altar of Heaven in Peking.
