爱民者强
Power Comes from Caring for the People
【Interpretation】
A state which takes good care of its people is one with true power. A ruler will be trusted and supported by the people, and the state under such a ruler will be a solid stronghold only when the policies and measures made and implemented meet the people’s requirements and represent the people’s fundamental interests. This is a new theme derived from the concept of “caring for the people,” which is the fundamental driving force of a state’s becoming strong and prosperous. It is also an extension and development of the concepts of “the people are the foundation of a state,” and “a benevolent person cares for the people.”
【Citation 1】
A state that takes good care of its people is strong and prosperous; a state that does not care about its people is waning and weak. (Xunzi)