尚贤 (Shàng Xián), translated as "elevation of the worthy," is a central tenet of Mohism advocating for the selection and promotion of leaders and officials based on merit, talent, and virtue rather than birthright or social status. Mozi (墨子) argued that meritocracy ensures the most capable individuals govern, benefiting society as a whole. In contrast to Confucianism, which often emphasized hereditary roles and family hierarchy, Shàng Xián promotes inclusivity and fairness, enabling those with ability and integrity to lead.
For Mohists, an effective ruler surrounds themselves with capable advisors and administrators, as their competence directly impacts the prosperity and stability of the state. Mozi believed that favoritism and nepotism are detrimental, leading to inefficiency and corruption.
Shàng Xián emerged during the Warring States period (475–221 BCE), when states faced constant conflict and needed strong governance to survive. Mozi observed that many states suffered due to incompetent leaders chosen based on lineage rather than ability. His call for meritocracy was a pragmatic solution to these challenges.
Though Shàng Xián was often at odds with Confucian values of hereditary roles, Legalist thinkers, such as Shang Yang (商鞅), later adopted similar meritocratic principles in their reforms, particularly during the Qin Dynasty.
Meritocracy remains a deeply rooted concept in Chinese governance, influencing both traditional and modern practices. The CCP has embraced Shàng Xián in its organizational structure, emphasizing performance-based promotions and talent development.
Key CCP Applications:
Cadre Evaluation System:
Officials are evaluated based on measurable achievements, such as economic development and poverty alleviation, reflecting the Mohist emphasis on merit.
Education and Talent Cultivation:
The CCP prioritizes education and training to cultivate a pool of skilled individuals for leadership positions.
Key Challenges:
Balancing Meritocracy and Loyalty:
While Shàng Xián prioritizes competence, the CCP also emphasizes ideological alignment and loyalty to the party, creating potential tensions between merit and political considerations.
1. Ancient Mohist Leadership Advice:
Mozi advised rulers to appoint ministers and officials based on their abilities rather than personal connections, arguing that this would lead to better governance and public trust.
2. CCP’s Talent Development Programs:
The CCP’s focus on identifying and promoting talented individuals through rigorous assessments and training reflects Shàng Xián in modern governance.
3. Education as a Gateway:
The national college entrance exam system (高考, Gāokǎo) embodies the principle of Shàng Xián by providing merit-based opportunities for advancement, regardless of social or economic background.
4. Anti-Corruption Campaigns:
Efforts to remove corrupt or incompetent officials from positions of power align with the Mohist call for promoting only the capable and virtuous.
Focus on Collectivism:
Americans may expect meritocracy to prioritize individual achievement. In the Chinese context, Shàng Xián serves collective goals, emphasizing how individual talent benefits society as a whole.
Meritocracy vs. Democracy:
The emphasis on merit-based leadership may seem at odds with democratic systems that prioritize popular choice over technocratic expertise.
Ideological Alignment:
The CCP’s requirement for political loyalty may appear to conflict with pure meritocracy, but in the Chinese perspective, loyalty ensures alignment with national priorities.
Shàng Xián aligns with long-standing Chinese values of competence and practicality in governance. Its emphasis on fairness and efficiency resonates with the CCP’s goals of economic development and societal progress. By promoting talented individuals, Shàng Xián ensures that governance remains effective, responsive, and aligned with national interests.