The only way to settle questions of an ideological nature or controversial issues among the people is by the democratic method, the method of discussion, of criticism, of persuasion and education, and not by the method of coercion or repression.

I have witnessed the tremendous energy of the masses. On this foundation it is possible to accomplish any task whatsoever.

Even though I believe we should promote Chinese medicine, I personally do not believe in it. I don't take Chinese medicine.

The cardinal responsibility of leadership is to identify the dominant contradiction at each point of the historical process and to work out a central line to resolve it.

Everything under heaven is in utter chaos; the situation is excellent.

If we have a correct theory but merely prate about it, pigeonhole it and do not put it into practice, then that theory, however good, is of no significance.

Communists should set an example in being practical as well as far-sighted. For only by being practical can they fulfil the appointed tasks, and only far-sightedness can prevent them from losing their bearings in the march forward.