Ch’ien-fu Lun Chinese title of Comments of a Recluse (second century A.D.), a Confucian political and cosmological work by Wang Fu. Divided into thirty-six essays, it gives a vivid picture of the sociopolitical world of later Han China and prescribes practical measures to overcome corruption and other problems confronting the state. There are discussions on cosmology affirming the belief that the world is constituted by vital energy (ch’i). The pivotal role of human beings in shaping the world is emphasized. A person may be favorably endowed, but education remains crucial. Several essays address the perceived excesses in religious practices. Above all, the author targets for criticism the system of official appointment that privileges family background and reputation at the expense of moral worth and ability. Largely Confucian in outlook, the work reflects strong utilitarian interest reminiscent of Hsün Tzu. See also CH’I, CONFU- CIANIS. A.K.L.C.