投石问路，以洞察人们是怎样看待某些事情，尤其是那些不知道是否能够被接受、是否会成功的事情。这样，就能确保行事有好的结果，并且可以获得一个选择的机会，是继续认真做下去还是全身而退。智者通过试探他人的想法，从而知道自己的处境。这是在提出询问、请求和管理他人之时最具远见的重大法则。
throw straws in the air, to find how things will be received, especially those whose reception or success is doubtful. one can thus be assured of its turning out well, and an opportunity is afforded for going on in earnest or withdrawing entirely. by trying men's intentions in this way, the wise man knows on what ground he stands. this is the great rule of foresight in asking, in desiring, and in ruling.
