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Communist Quote by Mao Zedong

“Communists must listen attentively to the views of people outside the Party and let them have their say. If what they say is right, we ought to welcome it, and we should learn from their strong points; if it is wrong, we should let them finish what they are saying and then patiently explain things…” quote by Mao Zedong
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“Communists must listen attentively to the views of people outside the Party and let them have their say. If what they say is right, we ought to welcome it, and we should learn from their strong points; if it is wrong, we should let them finish what they are saying and then patiently explain things to them.”

Mao Zedong

About This Quote

Source Speech: Party Policy Guidelines, Mao Zedong, 1957

Encourages open dialogue, accepting correct ideas from outsiders and patiently correcting mistakes.

In simple terms: Listen, learn, and correct with patience.

Key Takeaway

Seek truth, respect dissent.

Themes

dialogue learning leadership humility

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

political educational

When to use this quote

  • policy meetings
  • community forums
  • cross‑party negotiations
  • public debates

Key Concepts

political openness critical listening constructive criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders balance openness with maintaining authority?
  • What safeguards prevent misuse of “patient explanation”?
A Different Perspective

May be difficult in authoritarian contexts where dissent is suppressed.

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