中庸
Doctrine of the Mean
Confucianism · conceptA central Confucian text (one of the Four Books) and its core philosophical concept. The Mean (zhongyong) is the virtue of acting neither excessively nor deficiently but finding the fitting course in every situation — the path that aligns with one's nature, social role, and cosmic harmony. Not mere compromise but dynamic appropriateness. Attributed to Zisi (Confucius's grandson), the Mean is one of the Four Books. It is not mediocrity but the ever-shifting point of balance between extremes.
中也者，天下之大本也；和也者，天下之达道也。
— Doctrine of the Mean, Chapter 1 (Confucian tradition)
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What Are the Key Facts About Doctrine of the Mean?
- Tradition: Confucianism
- Chinese: 中庸
- Category: Concept
- Definition: A central Confucian text (one of the Four Books) and its core philosophical concept.
What Concepts Are Related to Doctrine of the Mean?
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Frequently Asked Questions About Doctrine of the Mean
What is the Doctrine of the Mean?
The Doctrine of the Mean (Zhongyong) is a Confucian classic on equilibrium (zhong) and harmony (he) — the cultivated person keeps the heart balanced before feelings arise and expresses them appropriately.
What does 'mean' mean here?
Not mediocrity but the undeviating center: 'zhong' is centrality/equilibrium; 'yong' is constancy. It is the rectified heart that keeps conduct attuned to the Way.
Who wrote it?
Traditionally Zisi, grandson of Confucius; it later became one of the Four Books and a core Neo-Confucian text.
What is cheng (sincerity) in it?
Cheng is wholehearted sincerity — the linking of human effort and heaven: 'sincerity is the way of heaven; to think in terms of sincerity is the way of humanity.'