Core Socialist Values (社会主义核心价值观) are a set of guiding principles introduced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to promote moral and ethical development in Chinese society. These values serve as a cultural and ideological foundation for socialism with Chinese characteristics, aiming to unite the population around shared goals and norms.
The values are grouped into three levels:
National Values (国家层面, Guójiā Céngmiàn):
Prosperity (富强, Fùqiáng): National strength and economic development.
Democracy (民主, Mínzhǔ): People’s participation under socialism.
Civility (文明, Wénmíng): A culturally and socially advanced nation.
Harmony (和谐, Héxié): Social stability and unity.
Social Values (社会层面, Shèhuì Céngmiàn):
Freedom (自由, Zìyóu): Liberation from oppression and poverty.
Equality (平等, Píngděng): Fair treatment and opportunities for all.
Justice (公正, Gōngzhèng): A just and impartial society.
Rule of Law (法治, Fǎzhì): Governance according to laws.
Individual Values (个人层面, Gèrén Céngmiàn):
Patriotism (爱国, Àiguó): Love for the nation.
Dedication (敬业, Jìngyè): Commitment to work and responsibilities.
Integrity (诚信, Chéngxìn): Honesty and trustworthiness.
Friendship (友善, Yǒushàn): Kindness and goodwill toward others.
The Core Socialist Values were formally articulated in 2012 under Xi Jinping’s leadership as part of efforts to reinforce ideological unity and cultural confidence. They respond to the challenges posed by rapid modernization, such as erosion of traditional values, growing inequalities, and moral dilemmas.
This framework reflects continuity with earlier efforts, such as Mao Zedong’s focus on collective values and Deng Xiaoping’s emphasis on economic development, while adapting them to contemporary realities.
1. Promoting National Unity:
Fostering a shared sense of identity and purpose among citizens.
2. Enhancing Moral Standards:
Encouraging ethical behavior and mutual respect in personal and professional spheres.
3. Strengthening Governance:
Reinforcing public trust in the Party and legal system through adherence to justice and rule of law.
4. Balancing Tradition and Modernity:
Integrating traditional Chinese values with socialist principles to guide cultural and social development.
For many Chinese citizens, Core Socialist Values resonate as ideals that align with their aspirations for a harmonious, prosperous, and stable society. These values provide a framework for navigating the complexities of modernization while preserving cultural identity.
Key Achievements and Applications:
Public Campaigns:
Billboards, slogans, and media campaigns promote the values nationwide, fostering awareness and engagement.
Education Initiatives:
Schools and universities integrate these values into curricula, emphasizing civic responsibility and moral development.
Community Programs:
Local initiatives, such as volunteer programs and neighborhood committees, encourage collective action and mutual support.
1. Patriotism (爱国):
Celebrations of national achievements, such as the space program or poverty alleviation, inspire pride and unity.
2. Rule of Law (法治):
Crackdowns on corruption and efforts to make the judiciary more transparent reflect the commitment to legal governance.
3. Dedication (敬业):
Programs recognizing model workers and public servants highlight the value of hard work and responsibility.
4. Integrity (诚信):
The Social Credit System promotes honesty and accountability in personal and professional conduct.
5. Harmony (和谐):
Efforts to resolve ethnic and regional disparities align with the value of social harmony.
Democracy and Rule of Law:
Americans might interpret these terms through a Western lens, missing their distinct meanings in the Chinese context, where they emphasize collective governance and legal order under socialism.
Individual vs. Collective Values:
The emphasis on collective well-being might contrast with the individualistic focus of Western ethics, leading to misunderstandings about personal freedom in China.
Moral Campaigns:
Public promotion of values might be viewed as propaganda, overlooking its cultural and educational dimensions.
Core Socialist Values reflect the CCP’s vision for a morally grounded, harmonious society that balances traditional values with modern challenges. For Chinese citizens, these values provide a sense of stability and purpose, reinforcing the importance of collective well-being, personal integrity, and national pride. By articulating a clear moral and ideological framework, they inspire confidence in China’s path toward modernization and global leadership.