The state of Lu was the cradleland of Confucianism, and it boasted a great number of Confucian scholars. Duke Aigong of Lu took great pride in this.
However, Zhang Zi (Zhuangzi) believed that those who bore the title of Confucian scholar were not necessarily true Confucianists. In his view, there were not too many, but rather too few genuine Confucian scholars in Lu.
He advised the Duke, "I have heard that Confucian scholars who wear round-topped headgear understand meteorology and the natural order; those who wear square shoes know geography; and those who bear jade pendants are skilled at decision-making. Yet, people with true ability and accomplishment do not necessarily wear scholarly robes, and those who wear such robes do not necessarily possess ability. If Your Majesty doubts my words, simply issue an order: 'Anyone who wears scholarly attire without genuine ability shall be executed.' Then observe whether anyone continues to wear the scholar's costume." Duke Aigong adopted his suggestion.
Five days after the order was issued, not a single person wearing scholarly robes could be found on the streets of Lu.