Ancient Chinese Dictionary of Integrity and Diligent Governance Advice

Author: Ma Jia / Li Jingjia (editors)
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-03-01
Features: Ancient Chinese philosophical thought is predominantly Confucian. The core of Confucianism is the strict self-discipline required of people, engaging in social life with a realistic spirit, "selflessness," and embodying individual value in "serving others." In summary, it is the prominent "self-cultivation, family harmony, governance, and peace" in Confucian classics—self-cultivation, harmonizing the family for the nation, and achieving peace in the world. It emphasizes that one should act with "balance"—impartiality and fairness, be "sincere"—honest and open-hearted, and uphold "righteousness"—selflessness and high moral standards. This life philosophy and value system still holds irreplaceable positive significance today. The selection in this book is primarily based on the above content, divided into several categories, covering personal aspiration, self-cultivation, social interactions, and ultimately achieving unity of knowledge and action with integrity and diligence in governance. Of course, ancient Chinese philosophical thought inevitably contains certain negative and biased elements. Although we have tried to exclude these parts in the selection, their profound traces remain. Therefore, when reading and using these maxims, we must grasp the overall picture, fully pay attention to their practicality and relevance, and only then can we truly explore the essence of Chinese civilization. Combining this with the study of Marxism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory, and the "Three Represents" Thought will surely enhance personal cultivation, harmonize relationships between individuals, families, collectives, and the state, establish the ideal of wholeheartedly serving the people, achieve "establishing the party for the public and working diligently for the people," and contribute one's strength to building a harmonious society.