The "Four Pillars of the State," a concept originating from "Guanzi·Mumin" and proposed by the statesman Guan Zhong during the Spring and Autumn period, refers to the guiding principles for governing a country. These pillars are specifically comprised of Ritual (礼), Righteousness (义), Integrity (廉), and Sense of Shame (耻).
Guan Zhong believed that these four elements — Ritual, which involves proper conduct and ceremony; Righteousness, which pertains to justice and morality; Integrity, which is about honesty and incorruptibility; and Sense of Shame, which concerns the awareness of honor and disgrace — are indispensable foundations for the stability and prosperity of a nation. Each of these principles plays a crucial role in maintaining social order and promoting the welfare of the state.
Here are the specific meanings of each concept within the "Four Pillars of the State" framework:
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Ritual (礼): Refers to social order and moral norms, ensuring that people's behaviors do not exceed appropriate bounds. It is about maintaining harmony and stability in society by adhering to established protocols and showing respect for societal structures and traditions.
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Righteousness (义): Represents the standards of proper conduct, emphasizing justice and fairness. It demands that individuals act in ways that are morally right and just, avoiding actions that benefit oneself at the expense of others or society. This principle promotes a sense of duty and ethical behavior.
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Integrity (廉): Focuses on uprightness and incorruptibility. It requires individuals to be honest, transparent, and free from corruption. Integrity involves admitting mistakes openly and resisting temptations of bribery or dishonesty, thereby promoting a culture of honesty and accountability.
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Sense of Shame (耻): Pertains to having a conscience and feeling remorse for wrongful actions. It encourages individuals to have a strong sense of dignity and avoid associating with unscrupulous people or engaging in immoral activities. Developing a sense of shame helps prevent unethical behavior and promotes personal and societal virtue.
