China's Socialist Core Values Explained | Generated by AI
Question: Could you provide an introduction to the Socialist Core Values?
Answer: The Socialist Core Values (社会主义核心价值观) are a set of official moral and ethical principles codified by the Communist Party of China at the 18th National Congress in 2012. They are designed to serve as the “spiritual backbone” of the nation, guiding social behavior, governance, and individual conduct in modern China.
These values are strategically divided into three distinct levels: the national goal, the social expectation, and the individual code of conduct.
1. National Level: The Goal (国家层面)
These four values define the ultimate objectives for the country’s development.
- Prosperity (富强): Building a strong, wealthy nation.
- Democracy (民主): Maintaining people’s sovereignty within the socialist framework.
- Civility (文明): Promoting cultural and ethical progress.
- Harmony (和谐): Ensuring social stability and a balanced environment.
2. Social Level: The Orientation (社会层面)
These values describe the ideal state of Chinese society and the principles that should govern public life.
- Freedom (自由): Freedom within the bounds of law and collective interest.
- Equality (平等): Ensuring equal rights and opportunities before the law.
- Justice (公正): Upholding fairness and social equity.
- Rule of Law (法治): Governance based on legal principles and the constitution.
3. Individual Level: The Ethics (个人层面)
These are the moral standards expected of every citizen.
- Patriotism (爱国): Love for the country and the people.
- Dedication (敬业): Professionalism and a strong work ethic.
- Integrity (诚信): Honesty and trustworthiness in personal and business dealings.
- Friendship (友善): Kindness, mutual help, and good relations with others.
Summary Table
| Category | Values |
|---|---|
| National | Prosperity, Democracy, Civility, Harmony |
| Social | Freedom, Equality, Justice, Rule of Law |
| Individual | Patriotism, Dedication, Integrity, Friendship |
Note: You will often see these 24 characters displayed in public spaces across China—on billboards, in schools, and on digital signs—to encourage their integration into daily life.
Would you like me to go deeper into the historical context of why these specific values were chosen in 2012?