Chen Yan: Mao Zedong's Thought on Exemplary Education: Theoretical Framework, Practical Approaches, and Contemporary Value
The ideology of model education is an important constituent part of Mao Zedong Thought. In recent years, the academic community has focused on Mao Zedong's ideology of model education and produced relevant research results. Some scholars have explicated the inherent stipulations of Mao Zedong’s model education from the three dimensions of people's subjectivity, ideological nature, and social practice. Others have studied the distinct characteristics of Mao Zedong’s model education ideology through the unity of nationality and timeliness, individual value and social value, advanced nature and mass nature, and scientific and artistic qualities. Still others have researched Mao Zedong’s model education ideology during the Yan'an period [1] from the perspectives of selection standards, core content, and methods. Building upon existing research, further study of Mao Zedong’s model education ideology from the perspectives of theoretical structure, practical approach, and contemporary value holds significant theoretical meaning and practical value.
I. The Theoretical Structure of Mao Zedong’s Ideology of Model Education
Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education possesses deep theoretical origins and a solid practical foundation. Marx and Engels’ theory of the "proletarian vanguard" and their "exemplary demonstration" (典型示范) methodology established its theoretical basis; Lenin’s ideas on the "power of example" provided ideological inspiration; the concepts of role models contained within fine traditional Chinese culture provided cultural nourishment; and the historical experiences of the New Democratic Revolution, the Socialist Revolution, and the early period of socialist construction provided the practical basis.
(1) The Theoretical Origins of Mao Zedong’s Ideology of Model Education
Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education has deep theoretical origins. The explanations of the nature and role of models by Marx, Engels, and Lenin, along with the model concepts contained in fine traditional Chinese culture, laid a solid theoretical foundation for Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education. The experience in model propaganda accumulated by the Communist Party of China during the New Democratic Revolution and the early period of socialist construction serves as the practical basis for Mao’s construction of model education ideology.
1. The Influence of Marxist Ideology on Exemplary Education
In Marxist theory, the gradual formation of the methodology from the "proletarian vanguard" theory expounded in the Manifesto of the Communist Party to "exemplary demonstration" laid the methodological foundation for the construction of Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education.
The Manifesto of the Communist Party clearly states that the proletarian vanguard—the Communist Party—possesses a unique nature and mission. Marx and Engels profoundly pointed out: the Communists "have no interests separate and apart from those of the proletariat as a whole." Precisely because they are highly consistent with the fundamental interests of the proletariat, the Communist Party, as the "proletarian vanguard," will never pursue its own narrow self-interest, but rather takes the cause of liberation for the proletariat and indeed all of humanity as its goal for struggle. The proletarian vanguard exhibits excellent qualities at both the theoretical and practical levels. "Practically, the Communists are the most advanced and resolute section of the working-class parties of every country, that section which pushes forward all others." Revolutionary practice has fully proven that Communists always stand at the forefront of struggle, pushing the proletarian movement forward with fearless courage and firm determination. Whether in arduous strike struggles or in the magnificent revolutionary uprisings, Communists have always led the proletariat in unremitting struggle for their own rights and interests. "Theoretically, they have over the great mass of the proletariat the advantage of clearly understanding the line of march, the conditions, and the ultimate general results of the proletarian movement."
As social practice continued to deepen, the methodology of "exemplary demonstration" emerged. In the Manifesto of the Communist Party, although Marx and Engels did not directly use the term "exemplary demonstration," the proletarian revolutionary theory permeating it manifests the embryonic form of this idea everywhere. Through profound analysis of the contradictions in capitalist society and based on the blueprints of advanced struggle cases in the proletarian movement of that time, they showed the direction and path of revolution to the world's proletariat. These cases were the early "exemplars"; they demonstrated how the proletariat could unite, break the shackles of old relations of production, and establish its own political power. From the level of theoretical construction, Marx and Engels’ methodology of "exemplary demonstration" is based on an accurate grasp of the laws of social development. They knew well that to promote social change, one cannot rely solely on abstract theoretical propaganda; there must be concrete and tangible practical examples. These "exemplars" originate from social practice and are active responses to social reality. At the same time, these "exemplars" possess transcendence and are able to lead society in new directions.
Marx and Engels’ methodology of "exemplary demonstration" influenced Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education in many ways. First, in terms of the standards for selecting models, Mao Zedong inherited the requirement from the "exemplary demonstration" methodology that models must reflect the essence of society. The models he advocated were not ordinary individuals, but exemplary representatives who embodied the proletarian revolutionary spirit and the purpose of serving the people during specific historical periods, such as Yang Jingyu [2], Zhang Side [3], and Norman Bethune [4]. Second, regarding the functional performance of model education, the "exemplary demonstration" methodology provided Mao Zedong with a line of thinking. Marx and Engels believed that exemplars have a powerful demonstrative and educational role, capable of triggering reflection and action regarding social issues. Mao Zedong fully recognized this, emphasizing that by extensively publicizing the deeds of models, the spirit of the model could be transformed into the actual actions of the broad masses. Third, from a methodological perspective, Marx and Engels’ "exemplary demonstration" emphasized the cognitive process of moving from the concrete to the general and then from the general back to the concrete. Mao Zedong followed this same law in model education, selecting representative exemplary cases from numerous revolutionary practices, refining universally applicable spiritual qualities, and then disseminating these spirits through propaganda and promotion to achieve the organic integration of theory and practice.
In the historical process of proletarian revolution and socialist construction, the "power of example" emphasized by Lenin contains profound theoretical connotations and practical significance. Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education was clearly inspired by Lenin’s thoughts on the "power of example."
Based on the Marxist materialist conception of history (群众史观), Lenin analyzed the limitations of individual models under the capitalist mode of production: "Under the capitalist mode of production, the significance of individual example, say the example of some labor cooperative, was inevitably exceedingly restricted." Accordingly, Lenin pointed out that only under the condition of completing the transition from private ownership to public ownership can the power of example be truly released to promote social development. "But once power has passed into the hands of the proletariat, once the expropriators have been expropriated, the situation changes radically and—as the most celebrated socialists have repeatedly pointed out—the force of example for the first time is able to influence the people on a wide scale." Lenin believed that the prerequisite for fully exerting the power of example is the non-privatization of property: "Now that the land is no longer private property, and the factories are almost no longer private property and will undoubtedly soon cease to be such (it will be no difficult matter for the Soviet government in its present position to carry out the necessary decrees), the example of the labor commune acquires tremendous importance, because it can solve organizational tasks better than any other means."
During the Russian Revolutionary period, models became a key factor in consolidating the strength of the masses and stimulating revolutionary fighting spirit. Lenin believed that advanced individuals or groups could use their own actions to show the broad masses ideal goals and feasible paths. For example, Bolshevik Party members threw themselves into the struggle with firm revolutionary convictions and a fearless spirit of sacrifice; their behavior was a vivid exemplary demonstration. In streets, factories, and rural areas, these models spread revolutionary ideas through practical actions, allowing ordinary people to see the hope of changing society, thereby attracting countless people to join the revolutionary ranks. During the stage of socialist construction, the "power of example" was equally important. Lenin emphasized that socialist construction requires a large number of proactive and innovative builders. Those workers, peasants, and intellectuals who showed high labor enthusiasm and creativity on the front lines of production were models for the whole of society to learn from.
2. The Inheritance of Model Concepts in Fine Traditional Chinese Culture
The long-standing fine traditional Chinese culture contains extremely rich and profound concepts of model education. Ancient sages established moral exemplars through their own noble words and deeds, and numerous historical stories shaped countless model figures who carried traditional values, highlighting the profound connotation of the basic model education concept of "cultivating oneself, regulating the family, governing the state, and bringing peace to the world" (修身齐家治国平天下) [5]. These concepts provided deep cultural nourishment for Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education.
Ancient sages such as Confucius and Mencius became moral models admired by later generations through their own words and deeds. Confucius dedicated his life to spreading Confucian thought, advocating moral standards such as "benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness," and practiced them personally. To realize an ideal social order, Confucius traveled through various states, "leaving no time to even warm his seat" [6] in his diligent pursuit. His view of "seeing a person of virtue and thinking how to equal them; seeing a person without virtue and looking within to examine oneself" [7] became a classic teaching that inspires people to pursue excellence and reflect on themselves. In daily life, Confucius displayed noble moral character through behaviors such as humility, a love of learning, and care for others. During their long association with Confucius, his disciples were deeply influenced by his teaching by word and example, following him as a model to continuously improve their own moral cultivation. Mencius inherited and developed Confucius’s thoughts, similarly emphasizing the cultivation and practice of his own morality. He proposed the standard for a "Great Man" (大丈夫) as someone whom "wealth and rank cannot corrupt, poverty and humble station cannot swerve, and power and force cannot bend," and interpreted this concept with his own life. This spirit of Mencius inspired later generations to hold the moral bottom line and be a person of backbone and responsibility when faced with various temptations and difficulties.
In the long river of Chinese history, many well-known stories have shaped a large number of model figures reflecting traditional values. The story of "Zengzi Killing the Pig" [8] embodies the importance of "trustworthiness" (信). To coax their child, Zengzi’s wife casually promised the child they would kill the pig for meat after she returned from the market. After Zengzi learned of this, he disregarded his wife’s objections and resolutely killed the pig. He used practical actions to tell the child that one must be honest and trustworthy, and what is promised must be done. This story also shows that parents, as the "first teachers" in life, are extremely important in shaping a child's good character through their example in word and deed. The story of Mulan joining the army in her father's place highlights the qualities of "filial piety" and "courage," inspiring countless Chinese sons and daughters to fulfill their filial duties to their families and their loyalty to the country. The values carried by model figures such as Zhuge Liang’s [9] "working oneself to the bone until the end," Yue Fei’s [10] "serving the country with total loyalty," and Lin Zexu’s [11] "I shall dedicate my life to the interests of the state, regardless of my personal fortune or misfortune," have become important components of the spirit of the Chinese nation.
3. Summary of Practical Experience
During the Land Revolutionary War period [12], the creation and practice of "Soviet Model Townships" (苏区模范乡) provided valuable and far-reaching pilot experience for the construction of revolutionary base areas under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. At that time, the Soviet areas faced many severe challenges: externally, there were military "encirclement and suppression" campaigns and economic blockades by the Kuomintang reactionaries; internally, there was a need to solve a series of urgent problems such as land distribution, building political power, and mass mobilization. In this context, the "Soviet Model Townships," as pilot areas, carried the important mission of being the first to try out and explore effective paths of governance. The pilot "Soviet Model Townships" achieved remarkable results in land policy; in terms of building political power, the "Soviet Model Townships" created a precedent for democratic elections; and they also accumulated rich experience in mass mobilization and organizational work. The pilot experience of the "Soviet Model Townships" set a model for the construction of other Soviet areas.
Throughout the New Democratic Revolution period, the Yan'an Rectification Movement [13] was a profound self-innovation carried out by the Communist Party of China in the ideological sphere. Moreover, it was a comprehensive Marxist ideological education movement aimed at enhancing the Party's cohesion and combat effectiveness through the reorganization and sublimation of the whole Party's thinking. The symbolic shaping of the "Zhang Side Spirit" during this special historical period possesses profound historical significance and rich ideological connotations. Looking at the process of symbolic shaping, the first step was the deep excavation and extensive dissemination of Zhang Side’s deeds. Through the propaganda of Party organizations and the creation of literary and artistic works, concrete examples of Zhang Side’s wholehearted service to the people were presented in detail, establishing a model image of one who serves only the masses. Second, the Zhang Side Spirit was theoretically refined and sublimated. Zhang Side’s spirit of serving the people was sublimated into a revolutionary spiritual symbol with universal guiding significance and became a value standard that the broad masses consciously practiced. Not only this, but the models shaped during this period, such as the border region peasant model Wu Manyou and the border region industrial exemplar Zhao Zhankuei, also greatly stimulated the people's enthusiasm for promoting the development of the border region. The practical experience of this period provided a practical basis for the enrichment and development of Mao Zedong’s ideology of model education; Mao Zedong refined the Zhang Side Spirit as "serving the people" and issued the call to "Learn from Zhang Side."
During the period of socialist revolution and construction, exemplary education focused primarily on education in ideals, convictions, and patriotism. In the combat operations of the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea [14], the soldiers of the Chinese People's Volunteers carried forward a high degree of patriotism and revolutionary heroism. To defend their homes and the country, they fought bloody battles without fear of powerful enemies, giving rise to a large number of heroic and model figures such as Huang Jiguang and Qiu Shaoyun. The deeds of these heroes were widely disseminated through newspapers, radio, and film, deeply moving the people of the entire country and stimulating patriotic enthusiasm to bravely dedicate oneself to one’s ideals, convictions, and the future destiny of the nation. The practice of exemplary education during this period enriched and developed Mao Zedong’s thought on exemplary education.
As socialist construction unfolded in depth, exemplary education, as an important method of ideological and political education, played an irreplaceable role in coalescing social forces, stimulating the masses' enthusiasm for construction, and promoting the development of the socialist cause. The practice of exemplary education in this period contained rich historical experience and value for the times. Exemplary figures spanned multiple fields, including labor models on the industrial front who were courageous in innovation and selfless in dedication, such as Wang Jinxi. With the heroic spirit of "rather living twenty years less to desperately seize the great oil field," he led petroleum workers in arduous entrepreneurship, writing a magnificent chapter in the industrial development of the early stages of socialist construction. Mao Zedong issued the call "In industry, learn from Daqing" [15] and established the Daqing spirit as a banner for industrial development. Through the selection and establishment of exemplary figures such as Lei Feng and Jiao Yulu to carry out exemplary education, these individuals became benchmarks for the masses to emulate through their noble character, outstanding achievements, and firm convictions. This practice of exemplary education further sublimated Mao Zedong’s thought on exemplary education.
(2) The Connotative Characteristics of Mao Zedong’s Thought on Exemplary Education
Mao Zedong’s thought on exemplary education contains a wealth of meaning, demonstrating profound theoretical characteristics and immense practical value across multiple dimensions, including exemplary standards, exemplary value, and methods for selection and establishment.
1. Exemplary standards: Political requirements come first Regarding members of the Communist Party of China (CPC) acting as the vanguard of the proletariat, Mao Zedong put forward the following requirements: "In government work, Communists should be models of absolute integrity, free from favoritism, doing more work and taking less pay. In mass movements, Communists should be friends of the masses and not their bosses, tireless teachers and not bureaucratic politicians. At no time and in no circumstances should a Communist place his personal interests first; he should, instead, subordinate them to the interests of the nation and of the masses." This requirement profoundly reflects the characteristics of the proletarian vanguard. During the critical period of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the CPC bore the historical mission of leading the entire nation's resistance. As members of the vanguard, Communists had to play a model and leading role in all aspects, becoming the mainstay of the national resistance. In 1937, in the political report "The Tasks of the Chinese Communist Party in the Period of Resistance to Japan," Mao Zedong proposed to train and bring up tens of thousands of cadres who "understand Marxism-Leninism, possess political foresight and competence in work, are full of the spirit of self-sacrifice, capable of solving problems on their own, steadfast in the midst of difficulties, and loyal and devoted in serving the nation, the class, and the Party." After the founding of New China, Mao Zedong proposed that cadres should be "both red and expert" [16], pointing out that "politics and professional work represent a unity of opposites; politics is the primary, the most important thing," and "it will not do to focus solely on politics while knowing nothing of technology or professional work." This requirement established a composite exemplary standard for socialist construction: "red" represents a firm political stance, while "expert" highlights the importance of professional ability—the two must be organically unified.
2. Exemplary value: Manifesting the sublime through the ordinary In 1944, in the speech "Serve the People" delivered at the memorial meeting for Zhang Sindex, Mao Zedong profoundly interpreted the value judgment standard that "all men must die, but death can vary in its significance: it may be heavier than Mount Tai or lighter than a feather." Zhang Sindex was a soldier who made silent contributions in an ordinary post; he served the people whole-heartedly without regard for personal gain and eventually died an unfortunate death while performing a charcoal-burning task for the interests of the people. Taking Zhang Sindex as an example, Mao Zedong emphasized that the value of a life does not lie in whether the position held is illustrious, but in whether one contributes effort to the interests of the people. The deeds of Zhang Sindex tell people that even in the most ordinary work, as long as one upholds the tenet of serving the people, the sublime value of life can be realized. Examples like Zhang Sindex have inspired countless people to be conscientious and selflessly dedicated in their respective positions, closely linking their personal destinies with the interests of the people.
Mao Zedong fashioned the Canadian doctor Norman Bethune into a benchmark of being "utterly devoted to others without any thought of self," calling on "every Communist to learn from him" and "learn from his spirit of absolute selflessness." Mao Zedong’s high praise for Bethune not only established a moral example for CPC members and the masses but also demonstrated to the world the great power of Communist moral ideals, inspiring people to transcend the narrow self and struggle for the happiness of all humanity.
3. Selection and establishment methods: The practical principle of dialectical unity Mao Zedong’s thought on exemplary education emphasizes the combination of universality and particularity. On the one hand, it requires "discovering typical cases from among the masses," which reflects the universality of the source of examples, adhering to the practice of discovering advanced figures and establishing examples from within the masses. On the other hand, it emphasizes "using typical cases to guide the general situation," such as the "In agriculture, learn from Dazhai" movement. By establishing Dazhai as a typical case, the successful experience of Dazhai was promoted to rural areas across the country, guiding various localities to study Dazhai’s spirit of arduous struggle and scientific agricultural production methods in light of their own actual conditions, thus promoting the development of national agricultural production. This method of combining universality and particularity enables exemplary education to remain closely linked to reality, possessing stronger pertinence and effectiveness.
Mao Zedong’s thought on exemplary education achieved the unity of historicity and the characteristics of the times. In different historical periods, different types of examples were established according to the needs and tasks of the era. During the War of Resistance, national contradictions became the primary contradiction; to stimulate the patriotic enthusiasm of the entire nation, it was necessary to prominently publicize national heroes such as Yang Jingyu. Yang Jingyu fought tenaciously against the Japanese army under extremely harsh conditions until his heroic death. His heroic deeds manifested the indomitable spirit of resistance of the Chinese nation, inspiring countless sons and daughters of China to throw themselves into the torrent of resistance and national salvation. After the founding of New China, as the country entered the period of socialist construction, the focus of work shifted toward economic construction and technological development. Accordingly, the types of examples shifted toward technical models, such as Meng Tai of the Anshan Iron and Steel Group (鞍钢). With a high sense of responsibility as a master of the country and a spirit of selfless work, Meng Tai assiduously studied technology and created a series of technological innovation achievements, making outstanding contributions to the recovery and development of Anshan Steel and becoming a model for workers to emulate. This dynamic adjustment of exemplary types indicates that the specific content of exemplary education must advance with the times according to the changes in the development of the era.
II. The Practical Path of Mao Zedong’s Thought on Exemplary Education
During the New Democratic Revolution and the early period of socialist revolution and construction, Mao Zedong attached great importance to the role of examples. Through the practice of establishing examples and the construction of an exemplary dissemination system, the practical path of his thought on exemplary education was comprehensively demonstrated.
(1) Establishing Typical Examples Mao Zedong placed extreme importance on establishing typical examples. During the periods of revolution and construction, he inspired the masses to forge ahead by establishing typical examples in different fields. Examples include Zhang Sindex's wholehearted service to the people and Norman Bethune's total devotion to others without thought of self. These examples possessed distinct characteristics; their deeds were representative and leading, manifesting a sublime spirit. When establishing typical examples, their highlights were deeply excavated and widely disseminated through various communication channels—such as newspapers and speeches—making the image of the example strike a chord in people's hearts and guiding people to "emulate those of superior character" [17], using the power of examples to promote the development of various undertakings.
1. Emphasizing the discovery and publicity of heroic and model figures In the magnificent course of the Chinese revolution and construction, Mao Zedong attached great importance to the discovery and publicity of heroic and model figures. Zhang Sindex made silent contributions in an ordinary post until he gave his precious life for the cause of revolution. Mao Zedong personally attended Zhang Sindex's memorial meeting and delivered the famous speech "Serve the People," highly praising the great spirit of Zhang Sindex for sacrificing himself for the interests of the people. Norman Bethune traveled thousands of miles to China to devote himself to the great cause of healing the wounded and rescuing the dying, eventually dedicating his life to the liberation of the Chinese people. Mao Zedong wrote the article "In Memory of Norman Bethune," giving extremely high praise to Bethune’s internationalist spirit of absolute selflessness and his noble character of being "utterly devoted to others without any thought of self," praising him as "a man who is noble-minded and pure, a man of moral integrity and above vulgar interests, a man who is of value to the people."
In terms of publicizing the deeds and spirit of heroic and model figures, Mao Zedong utilized a variety of effective channels. Speeches became an important way for him to disseminate the power of examples. Through passionate and infectious speeches, Mao Zedong vividly presented the advanced deeds and sublime spirit of heroic and model figures to the masses. This not only allowed the audience to directly understand the stories of these heroes and models but also elicited strong emotional resonance. Newspapers and periodicals were also powerful tools for Mao Zedong’s publicity work. As important media for information dissemination, newspapers and periodicals possessed extensive influence. Utilizing this advantage, detailed reports on the deeds of heroic and model figures were published, and the spiritual connotation therein was deeply analyzed, allowing the images of these figures to become more deeply rooted in people’s hearts and enabling more people to understand and learn from their spirit. For example, through publicity in publications such as the Liberation Daily (解放日报), the deeds of model figures like Zhang Sindex, Norman Bethune, and Lei Feng spread across the length and breadth of the country, inspiring countless people to devote themselves to the cause of revolution and construction.
2. Emphasizing the cultivation and promotion of advanced collective models Mao Zedong attached great importance to the cultivation and promotion of advanced collective models. Through a series of measures such as in-depth research, excavation, and extensive publicity, he established many advanced collective models with far-reaching influence. Dazhai and Daqing were the most prominent examples. Dazhai was located in a mountainous area with harsh natural conditions, yet by virtue of the Dazhai people’s spirit of arduous struggle and self-reliance, they created the miracle of high grain yields on barren land. Mao Zedong and his leadership research team went deep into Dazhai to understand the specific deeds of the Dazhai people in "fighting against heaven and earth." They discovered their indomitable and united spiritual qualities in the face of numerous difficulties—a spirit that was precisely the powerful drive urgently needed for socialist construction at that time. Daqing, as a representative of New China’s petroleum industry, saw petroleum workers take "Iron Man" Wang Jinxi as a model in a harsh entrepreneurial environment, carrying forward the Daqing spirit of "patriotism, entrepreneurship, truth-seeking, and dedication," making brilliant contributions to the country’s petroleum self-sufficiency. Mao Zedong emphasized the excavation of the Daqing experience, conducting in-depth research into the entire process of the Daqing Oil Campaign, and fully affirming the enormous achievements made by Daqing in oil production, believing it had established an immortal monument at the spiritual level for the people of the whole country. Mao Zedong required news media and literary and artistic works to vigorously publicize Dazhai and Daqing. Through vivid and factual reports, media such as newspapers and radio spread the heroic feat of the Dazhai people in defying hardships and transforming mountains and rivers, as well as the spirit of the Daqing people in arduous entrepreneurship and winning honor for the country. This publicity not only displayed the brilliant image of advanced collectives but also manifested the collectivist spiritual qualities contained therein, becoming a model for the people of the whole country to learn from at the time. This exemplary role of demonstration and guidance produced an enormous impact. The masses drew strength from the deeds of Dazhai and Daqing, taking advanced collectives as benchmarks in their respective work positions and actively throwing themselves into the cause of socialist construction. Dazhai’s experience in agricultural production provided a reference for rural areas across the country; many rural areas learned from the Dazhai spirit, improving agricultural production conditions and enhancing agricultural production efficiency through collective efforts. Daqing’s industrial construction model also inspired numerous industrial enterprises, promoting the rapid development of China's industry.
(2) Constructing a Dissemination System Mao Zedong attached great importance to constructing a dissemination system for examples, requiring extensive and in-depth publicity through newspapers, magazines, and radio. Furthermore, he required that examples be integrated into family, school, and social education—especially into classroom education and campus activities—to manifest the power of examples, produce ideological resonance, and form emotional identification.
1. Utilizing multiple media outlets to disseminate the deeds of examples In the historical process of revolution and construction, Mao Zedong attached extreme importance to the power of examples and skillfully utilized multiple media outlets to disseminate their deeds, thereby coalescing social forces and promoting the development of the cause.
Newspapers played a pivotal role in disseminating the deeds of role models. By virtue of their capacity for in-depth reporting, newspapers became a vital frontline for showcasing the stories and spiritual essence of these models. At that time, various Party newspapers and journals undertook the mission of excavating the deep-level significance behind the deeds of role models. Through in-depth reporting, they provided detailed narratives of the models’ upbringing, specific actions, and the spiritual values embodied in their behavior. Taking the deeds of Lei Feng [18] as an example, newspapers used serialized reports to comprehensively present his journey from an ordinary youth to a communist fighter, deeply analyzing the spiritual essence of his wholehearted service to the people. Such in-depth reporting not only informed readers of the models' concrete actions but also guided them to reflect on the intrinsic value of the "role model spirit," thereby stimulating the masses’ enthusiasm for learning from these figures.
Radio also played a unique role in the dissemination of role model deeds. Radio possessed the advantage of scheduled information broadcasting and could transcend geographical limitations to spread these deeds across a broader scope. Through scheduled radio programs, the advanced deeds of role models were transmitted to every corner of the country—factories, rural villages, and schools—expanding the influence of these models.
Although television was not yet widespread at the time, it was also utilized for the dissemination of role model deeds. By producing special programs, it provided viewers with a more intuitive experience and enhanced the infectious power of the transmission. Through film footage, on-site interviews, and various other forms, the images and deeds of role models were presented directly to the audience. With their unique narrative styles and visual presentations, these special programs allowed viewers to more truly feel the charisma of the models. For instance, in the production of special programs on heroic and model figures, displaying their work environments and recounting their stories of struggle made viewers feel as if they were personally on the scene, thereby inspiring inner reverence and the drive to learn from the models.
2. Carrying out mass activities to hold high the role model spirit
Mass activities are powerful vehicles for promoting the widespread dissemination of the role model spirit, exerting a profound influence on the shaping of social customs, ideological guidance, and the spiritual cohesion of the populace. During this period, a multi-layered and all-encompassing system for disseminating the role model spirit was constructed through the holding of various commendation conferences, the organization of literary and artistic performances, and the carrying out of practical activities such as volunteer services.
Holding commendation conferences was a key measure for driving the dissemination of the role model spirit. During the Yan’an period, Mao Zedong emphasized at a commendation conference that "the model labor methods of some agricultural labor heroes in the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region [19] (labor mutual aid, more plowing, more hoeing, and more manuring) should be promoted everywhere." As solemn and public rituals, commendation conferences established a platform for direct communication between role models and the masses. At these conferences, role models from different industries and fields gathered together; by virtue of their outstanding achievements, noble character, and spirit of selfless dedication, they became the focus of public attention. When these models stood on the awards stage to receive honors and commendations, their images and deeds were presented to the masses in an intuitive and impactful manner. For example, at commendation conferences in the industrial sector, labor models shared their experiences in overcoming technical difficulties and improving production efficiency, showing the broad masses of workers the direction for their efforts. At agricultural commendation conferences, representatives of outstanding peasants recounted stories of scientific farming and leading fellow villagers toward prosperity, inspiring more peasants to actively participate in agricultural construction. This face-to-face exchange broke down the sense of distance between the models and the masses, allowing the people to deeply feel that role models were not unreachable "mythological figures" but real people living among them whose goals could be attained through effort.
Organizing literary and artistic activities based on the deeds of role models was a unique and infectious way to spread the role model spirit. Literary and artistic works possess a powerful ability to evoke emotional resonance. Through exquisite performances, actors vividly recreated the struggles and spiritual outlook of the models, making the audience feel as if they were on the scene, sharing the joys and sorrows of the models. For instance, literary and artistic works created with Lei Feng’s deeds as their theme allowed the broad masses to profoundly understand the connotation of the Lei Feng spirit by showcasing his small acts of kindness in daily work and life, awakening the pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty in the depths of people’s hearts.
Carrying out practical activities such as volunteer services was a crucial link in translating the role model spirit into concrete action. Practical activities provided the masses with opportunities to personally practice the role model spirit, allowing it to move from the theoretical level into real life. By organizing various volunteer service activities—such as voluntary labor, poverty alleviation, and the popularization of knowledge—the masses were guided to experience the value of the role model spirit in practice. For example, in educational volunteer activities carried out in some remote areas, volunteers learned from role models, dedicated themselves selflessly, and imparted knowledge to local children. This practice of leading by example transformed the role model spirit from an abstract concept into perceptible action, better promoting the recognition and practice of the role model spirit among the people.
III. The Contemporary Value of Mao Zedong’s Thought on Role Model Education
"A great era calls for a great spirit; a noble cause requires the guidance of role models." As a precious spiritual wealth, Mao Zedong's thought on role model education still possesses significant value in contemporary society, providing important insights and references for role model education in the New Era in terms of ideological guidance, moral construction, talent cultivation, and social governance.
(1) The value of ideological guidance
Using Mao Zedong's thought on role model education as guidance to strengthen ideals and convictions. In contemporary society, various ideological trends clash with one another, and some individuals have experienced a wavering of their ideals and convictions. The emphasis on strengthening political faith in Mao Zedong's thought on role model education provides us with a powerful ideological weapon. By promoting the firm faith and deeds of revolutionary predecessors such as Fang Zhimin [20], who sacrificed themselves for their ideals, we can guide contemporary youth to establish correct worldviews, outlooks on life, and values, and to firm up their faith in Marxism and their conviction in socialism with Chinese characteristics. Even under extremely arduous conditions, Fang Zhimin remained steadfast in his communist faith, writing immortal pieces such as "Beloved China" (Kě'ài de Zhōngguó). This spirit can inspire contemporary youth to remain persistent in their pursuit of ideals and convictions when faced with difficulties and temptations.
Using Mao Zedong's thought on role model education as guidance to carry forward the spirit of patriotism. Patriotism is a fine tradition of the Chinese nation, and the many role models fully affirmed by Mao Zedong all embodied deep patriotic sentiments. During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Five Heroes of Mount Langya [21] resolutely jumped off a cliff to cover the retreat of the masses and the army; their heroic feat demonstrated a strong spirit of patriotism. Today, we should carry forward the patriotic spirit of national heroes and patriotic paragons, using them as models to stimulate the patriotic enthusiasm of the broad masses and enhance the cohesion and appeal of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
(2) The value of moral construction
Adhering to Mao Zedong’s thought on role model education to actively nurture and practice Core Socialist Values. Core Socialist Values serve as the value guidance for contemporary Chinese society. The moral requirements in Mao Zedong's thought on role model education are highly consistent with these values. With his spirit of wholehearted service to the people, Lei Feng became a paragon for practicing value standards such as "friendliness" and "professional dedication" within the Core Socialist Values. By promoting the deeds of role models like Lei Feng, people can be guided to internalize Core Socialist Values in their hearts and externalize them in their actions, starting from small things around them and practicing values such as integrity, friendliness, and professional dedication in daily life.
Adhering to Mao Zedong’s thought on role model education to comprehensively enhance social moral standards. In response to the phenomenon of moral anomie in society, the advocacy of noble moral qualities in Mao Zedong's thought on role model education helps to elevate the overall moral level of society. During his tenure in Lankao County, Jiao Yulu [22] ignored his physical illness and led the masses to manage natural disasters like sandstorms, demonstrating noble qualities of integrity, honesty, and selfless dedication. Promoting models like Jiao Yulu can set moral benchmarks for the broad ranks of Party members, officials, and the masses, guiding people to consciously abide by social ethics, professional ethics, and family virtues, thereby creating a clean and healthy social environment.
(3) The value of talent cultivation
Inheriting and adhering to Mao Zedong's thought on role model education to cultivate well-rounded talents. The educational goal of "all-round development in moral, intellectual, physical, aesthetic, and labor dimensions" [23] proposed by Mao is fully reflected in his thought on role model education. For instance, Yuan Longping, the "father of hybrid rice," not only achieved world-renowned success in agricultural research (reflecting the fruits of intellectual and labor education) but also possessed a firm conviction in serving the people (reflecting moral education) and maintained an optimistic and positive mindset in arduous research environments (reflecting good psychological quality). Using Yuan Longping as a model can inspire contemporary young students to set goals for all-round development and focus on improving their comprehensive quality—not only striving to learn scientific and cultural knowledge but also strengthening their ideological and moral cultivation, striving to become well-rounded talents who meet the development needs of the New Era.
Promoting and adhering to Mao Zedong's thought on role model education to stimulate the innovative spirit and practical ability of talents. Mao Zedong's thought on role model education emphasizes the importance of practice. In the field of contemporary scientific and technological innovation, Tu Youyou's [24] team underwent countless experiments and overcame numerous difficulties in their research on artemisinin, eventually achieving success and making a huge contribution to global health. Their spirit of practical exploration is precisely an inheritance and development of the emphasis on practice in Mao Zedong's thought on role model education. Promoting the deeds of role models like Tu Youyou can inspire scientific researchers and young students to have the courage to innovate and practice.
(4) The value of social governance
Developing the role model spirit to promote social harmony and stability. In contemporary society, contradictions and problems still exist. In Mao Zedong's thought on role model education, establishing models of harmonious coexistence and mutual assistance can promote social harmony and stability. In community building, some outstanding community workers like Lin Dan have actively mediated neighborhood disputes and organized various mutual aid activities among residents, creating a harmonious community atmosphere. Promoting models like Lin Dan can guide community workers and residents to learn from advanced experiences and methods, enhance community cohesion, and promote the harmonious development of the community, thereby advancing the harmony and stability of society as a whole.
Using role model demonstration to promote the modernization of primary-level governance. The importance Mao Zedong's thought on role model education places on mass participation provides an approach for promoting the modernization of primary-level governance. In the process of implementing the rural revitalization strategy, some grassroots officials like Huang Shiyan [25] went deep into the primary level, leading the masses to develop characteristic industries and achieve poverty alleviation and prosperity. They have become models of primary-level governance, inspiring more grassroots officials to take active roles. By leveraging the exemplary and leading role of models, the efficacy of primary-level governance can be enhanced, and the modernization of the primary-level governance system and governance capacity can be promoted.
In the New Era, we should deeply excavate, inherit, and carry forward Mao Zedong's thought on role model education. Combining it with the characteristics and development needs of the times, we must innovate the methods and means of role model education, give full play to the exemplary and leading role of models, and gather the strength of the whole society to strive for the realization of the Chinese Dream of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Meanwhile, along with the continuous development of society, we must continue to explore the application value of Mao Zedong's thought on role model education regarding new fields and new problems, allowing it to continuously radiate new vitality and vigor.
Source: Mao Zedong Thought Studies No. 5, 2025 Editor: Huihui