公平 (Gōng Píng), translated as "fairness" or "equity," is a core Mohist principle that emphasizes justice and equal treatment for all members of society. For Mozi (墨子), fairness meant creating a system where resources, opportunities, and responsibilities were distributed equitably, regardless of social status or personal relationships. Gōng Píng stands in contrast to Confucian notions of hierarchy and familial partiality, advocating instead for impartial governance and universal justice.
Mohists viewed fairness not as an abstract ideal but as a practical necessity for societal harmony and stability. By addressing inequalities and ensuring that everyone contributes to and benefits from societal efforts, Gōng Píng seeks to eliminate conflict and foster collective well-being.
During the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), social hierarchies and aristocratic privileges created significant inequalities. Mozi critiqued these structures, arguing that favoritism and partiality undermined justice and led to resentment and unrest. His call for fairness was both an ethical stance and a pragmatic response to the challenges of governance in a fragmented and conflict-ridden era.
While Mohism did not gain the same level of influence as Confucianism, its focus on fairness resonated with later thinkers and remains a vital part of China’s intellectual tradition.
In modern China, Gōng Píng aligns with the CCP’s emphasis on reducing inequality and promoting social justice. The principle of fairness underpins policies aimed at addressing regional disparities, alleviating poverty, and ensuring access to education and healthcare. However, the implementation of fairness is often tempered by pragmatic considerations, balancing equity with economic growth and political stability.
Key CCP Applications:
Poverty Alleviation:
Nationwide campaigns to eradicate extreme poverty reflect the Mohist commitment to fairness by addressing structural inequalities.
Regional Development Initiatives:
Efforts to develop economically disadvantaged regions, such as the western provinces, align with the principle of Gōng Píng.
Key Challenges:
Balancing Growth and Equity:
While fairness is a priority, rapid economic development has led to disparities that require ongoing adjustments to policies.
1. Mozi’s Advocacy for Impartial Governance:
Mozi argued that rulers should treat all citizens equally, regardless of their rank or personal relationships, ensuring that justice is impartial and universally applied.
2. CCP’s Poverty Reduction Efforts:
China’s success in lifting millions out of poverty reflects the application of Gōng Píng, prioritizing the well-being of the disadvantaged.
3. Equal Access to Education:
Policies aimed at expanding access to education, especially in rural areas, embody the Mohist principle of fairness by reducing regional and socioeconomic disparities.
4. Anti-Corruption Campaigns:
Efforts to eliminate corruption align with Gōng Píng, ensuring that officials are held accountable and that resources are used for the public good.
5. Healthcare Reforms:
China’s push for universal healthcare reflects the principle of fairness, ensuring that medical services are accessible to all citizens.
Fairness as Equality vs. Equity:
Americans may interpret Gōng Píng as synonymous with equality, overlooking its focus on equity—addressing systemic disparities to achieve a fair outcome.
Impartial Governance:
The Mohist critique of favoritism might seem at odds with modern Chinese policies that prioritize national or party goals, creating potential misunderstandings about the practical applications of fairness.
Pragmatic Fairness:
The emphasis on collective well-being over individual rights may contrast with Western notions of fairness, which often prioritize personal autonomy.
Gōng Píng reflects a long-standing Chinese concern for social harmony and justice. In modern China, the principle supports efforts to address inequality and promote inclusive development, ensuring that all citizens contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress. By emphasizing fairness as a practical and moral imperative, Gōng Píng continues to guide policies that seek to balance growth with social equity.