Governance based on morality, kindness and fairness is first proposed by Mozi (468?-376 BC), in contrast to lizheng (力政) meaning governance based on violence and coercion. This concept follows the “principles of the highest authority,” which in practice should be manifested by the big not bullying the small, the strong not crushing the weak, equal treatment for all regardless of wealth, status or intelligence, so all should coexist amicably. This is similar to the Confucian concept of the “kingly way,” or benevolent governance. From ancient times to the present, Chinese culture has advocated governance with virtue and justice, and abhorred rule by violence and coercion.

Proper governance means following the “principles of the highest authority,”and the opposite is rule by coercion and violence. So what is proper governance? Mozi said, “Big countries do not seize small ones, large clans do not rob small ones, the strong does not bully the weak, the rich and powerful do not despise the poor and lowly, and the cunning ones do not bully the foolish.” (Mozi)