In the collective psyche of the populace, there exists no unwavering allegiance to an immutable leader. Instead, it is an enduring yearning for kind-hearted leadership that prevails. The allegiance of the people is not an unyielding fortress – it morphs, gravitating towards those leaders who prioritize their well-being. To effectively win the people’s support, a leader must place the tangible interests of the populace at the forefront of their concerns. Every policy formulated, and each measure adopted, must be unequivocally designed to represent, safeguard,and ultimately realize the interests of the people. For any leader, the legitimacy and efficacy of power are not self-evident virtues – they must be gradually established through an unwavering commitment to benefit the populace. More than a mere guideline, this principle is another iteration of the fundamental assertion that “the people’s will is foundation of the state.” It personifies the essence of the Chinese spirit–the“people-first” philosophy.

Tian has no partial affections; it helps only the virtuous. The people’s hearts know no constant leader; they yearn only for kind-hearted leadership. (The Book of History)