Mastering Governance: The Importance of Naming and Action in Chinese Philosophy
Zilu said, “The Duke of Wei (1) is waiting for you to take charge of the government. What will you do first?” The Master said, “I will certainly set things right by correcting names (3).” Zilu said, “Is that so? You are so pedantic (4)! How can you set things right?” The Master said, “You are so ignorant! A gentleman is ignorant of what he does not know, and he covers up (5) it. If the name is not correct, then the words will not be appropriate, and if the words are not appropriate, then the matter will not be accomplished. If the matter is not accomplished, then the rites and music will not flourish, and if the rites and music do not flourish, then the punishments will not be appropriate (6), and if the punishments are not appropriate, then the people will not know what to do. Therefore, a gentleman’s name must be appropriate, and his words must be implementable. A gentleman’s words are nothing but the truth.
[Notes] (1) Duke Wei: Duke Wei was Duke Wei Zhe, the grandson of Duke Wei Ling. His father, Kuai Qi, was expelled from the country by King Linggong of Wei. After King Linggong died, Kuai Qi succeeded to the throne. Kuai Qi wanted to return to the country to compete for the throne, but Kuai Qi refused. Here, Confucius expressed his views on this matter. (2) Xi: what. (3) Zhengming: to set things in order. (4) Yu: pedantic. (5) Que: same as “que”, meaning “doubtful”. (6) Zhong: same as “zhong”, meaning “appropriate”. (7) Gou: same as “gou”, meaning “careless”.
[Translation] Zilu (to Confucius) said, “The king of Wei wants you to govern the country. What are you going to do first?” Confucius said, “First, I must set things in order.” Zilu said, “Is that possible? You are thinking too anachronistically. How can this be done?” Confucius said, ”Zilong, you are really uncouth. A gentleman is always doubtful about things he does not know. If the names are not correct, then the words will not be appropriate and reasonable, and if the words are not appropriate and reasonable, then things will not be done. If things are not done, then the rites and music will not flourish. If the rites and music do not flourish, then the punishments will not be carried out properly. If the punishments are not carried out properly, then the people will not know what to do. Therefore, a gentleman must establish a proper name, must be able to speak clearly, and must be able to put his words into practice. A gentleman never treats his words and deeds lightly.
[Commentary] The central issue in the three chapters above is how to govern. The first two chapters talk about the ruler setting an example. The ruler must first tell the people what is required of them, so that they can understand the policies of the state, which Confucius calls guiding the people. But the most important issue discussed in these three chapters is “correcting names.” “Correcting names” is an integral part of Confucius’s “ritual” philosophy. The specific content of “correcting names” is “the ruler is the ruler, the minister is the minister, the father is the father, and the son is the son.” Only when “the names are correct” can “words be smooth,” and the rest of the matter will be resolved.
In the teachings of Confucius, the ancient Chinese philosopher, the principles of governance were not merely administrative tasks but ethical imperatives rooted in profound philosophical insights. One of the fundamental concepts he emphasized was the importance of “正名” (zhèngmíng), which translates to “rectification of names.” This concept held that for society to function harmoniously, each person and role must be designated with clarity and integrity. Without proper naming, communication falters, actions lose their efficacy, and societal order begins to erode.
The Essence of “Rectification of Names”
Confucius illustrated the concept of “正名” through the analogy of musical harmony. Just as a musical ensemble requires each instrument to be tuned correctly to produce harmonious melodies, so too must society align roles and relationships with their proper names. For example, a ruler must act with integrity and wisdom befitting their role, guiding their subjects with clarity and fairness. This ethical alignment ensures that governance is not merely about power but about virtuous conduct that inspires trust and cooperation.
Leadership as Moral Exemplar
In Confucian thought, leadership extends beyond political authority to encompass moral authority. Leaders are expected to embody the virtues they wish to cultivate in society. This principle is encapsulated in Confucius’ statement, “君子于其言，无所苟而已矣” (jūnzǐ yú qí yán, wú suǒ gǒu éryǐ), meaning “The gentleman is meticulous in his speech; he is earnest and sincere.”
Practical Applications in Governance
Confucius emphasized that when names are rectified and actions align with ethical principles, governance becomes effective and just. Leaders who prioritize “正名” foster an environment where laws are upheld not through coercion but through the moral authority of shared values. This approach ensures that policies resonate with the people and inspire voluntary compliance, rather than resistance.
The Legacy of Confucian Governance
Throughout Chinese history, Confucian principles of governance shaped political institutions and social norms. Dynasties sought legitimacy by claiming adherence to these principles, underscoring their enduring influence on Chinese culture. Even today, discussions on governance in China often reference Confucian ideals of ethical leadership and social harmony.
Confucius’ teachings on governance transcend time and cultural boundaries, offering valuable insights into leadership and ethics that resonate globally. By prioritizing the rectification of names and aligning actions with ethical principles, leaders can build societies that are not only efficient but also morally grounded and resilient. This philosophical approach challenges leaders to cultivate virtues such as integrity, compassion, and wisdom, fostering environments where governance serves the common good with clarity and purpose.