How Confucius’ Philosophy on Leadership Can Transform Modern Governance

Ai Gong (1) asked, “What makes the people obedient?” Confucius replied (2), “If you promote the upright and correct the crooked (3), the people will obey; if you promote the crooked and correct the upright, the people will not obey.”

(1) Ai Gong: His surname was Ji and his given name was Jiang. Ai was his posthumous title. He was the ruler of the state of Lu from 494 BC to 468 BC.

(2) “Dui” means “answer” in the Analects. It is used to show respect when answering questions from the ruler or someone in a higher position.

(3) “Ju zhi cuo zhe wang”: Ju means “to select” and zhi means “upright and fair.” Cuo means “to place” and wang means “crooked.”

[Translation]

Lu Aigong asked, “How can the people be made to obey?” Confucius replied, “If upright and selfless people are promoted and evil and unrighteous people are removed, the people will obey. If evil and unrighteous people are promoted and upright and selfless people are removed, the people will not obey the rule.”

[Analysis]

To be close to the virtuous and keep away from the wicked was a consistent proposition of Confucius. This was also the case in the selection of talents. Recommending and selecting talented people and using them in their proper positions is an important part of Confucius’s philosophy of governance by virtue. Under the patriarchal system, officials were selected based on their family connections, and even if someone was talented, they would not be selected if they were not related to the officials. Confucius’s philosophy of selecting people for positions can be said to be a major step forward at the time. The idea of “appointing people based on their talents” still has its precious value today.

a collection of Confucius’ sayings and ideas, there’s an enlightening dialogue between Confucius and Ai Gong, the ruler of the state of Lu. Ai Gong asked Confucius how to ensure the obedience of the people. Confucius responded, “If you promote the upright and correct the crooked, the people will obey; if you promote the crooked and correct the upright, the people will not obey.” This simple yet profound advice underscores the importance of integrity and moral character in leadership.

The Historical Context

Ai Gong, whose full name was Ji Jiang, ruled the state of Lu from 494 BC to 468 BC. Confucius’ response to Ai Gong highlighted the importance of promoting virtuous individuals to positions of power and removing those who were corrupt. This idea was revolutionary in an era where officials were often selected based on family connections rather than merit.

Confucius’ Philosophy of Governance

Confucius believed in the concept of governance by virtue. He emphasized the need to surround oneself with virtuous people and to distance oneself from the wicked. This philosophy extended to the selection of officials and leaders. Confucius advocated for a merit-based system where individuals were appointed based on their talents and moral character rather than their familial ties.

Modern Applications

The principle of promoting the upright and removing the crooked is highly relevant in today’s context. In modern governance, this translates to the importance of transparency, accountability, and integrity in leadership. By ensuring that leaders and officials are chosen based on their virtues and abilities, rather than their connections or wealth, governments can build trust and ensure the obedience and support of the people.

The Value of Meritocracy

Confucius’ advocacy for a merit-based system was a significant step forward for his time. Today, the idea of appointing people based on their talents continues to hold precious value. In a globalized world, where corruption and nepotism can undermine governance, the emphasis on meritocracy can lead to more effective and just leadership.