The Master said, “When the state is well governed, speak uprightly and act uprightly; when the state is poorly governed, act uprightly but speak modestly and cautiously.”
Note
This passage from the Analects of Confucius reflects the Confucian balance between steadfast moral commitment and practical wisdom in varying political climates.
When the state follows the Way (Dao), society values righteousness and welcomes honest speech. The noble person should thus align word and deed – speaking truthfully (upright speech) and acting with integrity (upright conduct).
When the state has lost the Way (Dao), blunt criticism may invite persecution or death. Yet the noble person must never compromise his moral conduct. He continues to act with unwavering integrity, but tempers his speech – becoming humble, restrained, and prudent (modest speech) – to preserve his life, protect the Way, and avoid futile martyrdom.
Confucius is not advocating self-serving evasion or moral surrender, but strategic prudence: inner principle remains firm, while outward expression adapts to circumstances. This “square within, round without” approach safeguards both moral integrity and practical effectiveness – a concrete application of the Confucian Doctrine of the Mean (zhong yong) in political ethics.
Further Reading
The Master said of Nan Rong, “When the state is well governed, he will not be discarded; when it is not, he will escape punishment and execution.” Analects 5.2 (Gongye Chang)
Shows how a wise person navigates both good and bad times – consistent with “act uprightly, speak modestly” in troubled times.
The Master said to Yan Hui, “When employed, we act; when set aside, we withdraw. Only you and I can do this!” Analects 7.11 (Shu Er)
Reflects adaptive engagement – active when possible, reserved when necessary – without compromising inner virtue.
The Master said, “When the state is well governed, draw a salary; when it is not, to still draw a salary is shameful.” Analects 14.1 (Xian Wen)
Both link ethical conduct to the state’s moral condition – emphasizing that one’s public role must align with righteousness.
子曰：「邦有道，危言危行；邦無道，危行言孫。」
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