Whether their opinions are correct or not, people who speak their minds should not be penalized and their messages should not be lost on their listeners. The term implies freedom of speech and a tolerant attitude towards criticism. To ensure proper governance and operation of a country, an organization, or a company, those in power and in management should have a good understanding of the situation on the ground as well as people’s needs and wishes, so as to mobilize all the segments of the society to play their roles. The way to achieve such result is to create healthy and harmonious relationships among people and let them speak their minds without fear so those in power can benefit from their various opinions and valuable insights. Even when the criticism from the general public or one’s subordinates is not fully justified, those in leading positions should take warning rather than condemning the critics.

Rulers use feng (ballads) to cultivate the people and the people use them to ridicule the rulers. So long as a critic advises the monarch mildly and through beautiful poetry, he will not be found guilty and the monarch he criticizes will become more careful in making decisions. These poems are called feng. (Introductions to Mao’s Version of The Book of Songs)

Those who speak their minds are not punished while those who listen should take warning. Both speakers and listeners only want to get things done in a satisfactory way. (Bai Juyi: Letter to Yuan Zhen)