to be fickle; to be inconstant; to change one's mind frequently upon seeing something new; to chop and change
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn Period, Guan Zhong, the prime minister of the State of Qi, made significant contributions to the prosperity of his state.
Duke Huan of Qi asked Guan Zhong how he enabled the people to live in peace and contentment.
Guan Zhong replied that he divided the populace into four distinct professions: scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants.
He arranged for them to live separately, which facilitated their ability to learn and specialize in their respective fields.
This arrangement prevented them from 'seeing something different and changing their original minds' (见异物而迁), thereby ensuring their stable livelihoods and contentment.