State consequentialism[1] is a modern minority theoretical interpretation of Mohist consequentialist ethics in Sinology, often intersecting with Chinese Legalism.
[4] Since there was no literal pre-Han Legalism category, although some of the Han Feizi is critical of Mohism, as one of the major forces of the Warring States period it is nonetheless relevant as one theoretical framework for interpreting the work.
[6] During Mozi's era, war and famines were common, and population growth was seen as a moral necessity for a harmonious society.
Harris takes Shen Dao's reasoning as based more simply in the consequences of actions for the state than a 'normative morality', as found in Confucian and later Daoist texts.
Shen Dao does seem to have some moral grounding, and does claim that an orderly state will benefit the people, assuming that a ruler might have such goals.
The ruler simply 'ought' to follow Shen Dao's advice if he desires 'consequences' like a strong, orderly state and welfare, as might be assumed.