Zhu's most familiar thought is to learn from things, safeguard justice and eliminate people's desires. In modern times, especially in some impetuous occupations, these ideas are somewhat unrealistic. In the Ming and Qing dynasties, philosophers who opposed this violation of human nature also appeared, but Zhu's original intention was really not what it was later. Let's first look at the background of Zhu Thought, the Song Dynasty, and the Song Dynasty after the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms. In this dynasty, everyone should have the same impression.
Foreign wars are not dominant, and rulers value literature over martial arts, but the economy is prosperous, and emperors and officials are immersed in the illusion of prosperity, being selfish and paying attention to enjoyment. The problem of redundant staff in the Song Dynasty was also very serious. In this context, if Li Zhi's clothes and meals are justified, then officials are estimated to be even more extravagant. The emperor and the people really need to find a place to cry. This country is really hopeless.
We can have a complete look at Zhu's thoughts. Zhu advocated sincerity, imitated everything and opposed Buddhism and Taoism. At that time, he opposed foreign negotiations and hoped to settle political affairs at home without favoring courtiers. He founded the "new theory of neutralization" and a complete theoretical system to verify that personal moral cultivation is the first and the rest is the second. Although there may be some problems in his personal style, it does not affect his achievements.