Produced by Yicheng Commonweal

To those who truly love their country

I. Opening: Who does true governance belong to?

In today’s world, nearly every nation inscribes grand slogans such as “putting people first” or “rule of law” into its political declarations. These phrases are treated as if they automatically elevate a government to the moral high ground of civilization. Yet the reality is often the opposite. Such terms have become rhetorical veils that conceal authoritarianism or preserve privileged structures. Beneath them lies a political logic that serves not the people as a whole, but a small circle of power holders—state elites, wealthy elites, and cultural aristocrats.

Now, we must confront a question that has long been avoided: Whose interests should a nation truly be governed for?

The answer may not be complicated: the true masters of a nation must be every “complete citizen” who shares the rights and responsibilities of political, economic, social, and cultural governance.

This article will examine both theory and real-world cases to systematically challenge the absurdity of so-called “people-centered” and “rule-of-law” approaches, and to advance a governance model centered on complete citizens—an institutional framework that reflects the direction of future civilizational progress.

II. Pseudo “people-centered” and pseudo “rule-of-law”: the reality behind the institutional façade

1. “Putting people first”—but which people are we really talking about?

We cannot judge a nation’s civility merely by the slogan “people-centered”. In practice, the “people” it refers to are often not citizens in the general sense, but a select few within specific groups.

• In the United States, “freedom” and “individual rights” are constantly emphasized, yet the real foundation of governance is the control of national destiny by wealthy elites. The state apparatus is deeply intertwined with capital interests, resulting in extreme wealth inequality and long-term monopolization of public resources. What once were citizens’ rights have now largely become consumer perks and the illusion of meaningful voting, completely detached from genuine self-governance.
• In countries such as Russia and Iran, the stability of the regime relies on suppressing personal freedoms under the banner of “national security.” The slogan “people-centered” serves merely as a tool for maintaining control; in reality, governance is regime-centered.
• In Middle Eastern monarchies and Southeast Asian family-based authoritarian systems, there is little talk of “people-centered” governance at all. The state operates directly on the basis of ruling power and oligarchic economic structures, with the “people” reduced to subjects of the throne or instruments for resource extraction.

The common thread in these systems is that the “people” in the logic of governance are never recognized as autonomous individuals with full political, economic, and social rights. Instead, they exist as objects of rule, merely softened with polite or positive language.

Slogans may abound, but the status of the people remains unclear. In reality, so-called “people-centered” governance is often just a rhetorical device through which those in power claim legitimacy from society—it is not a system genuinely based on citizens.

2. “Rule of law”—but what is actually being governed?

At first glance, “rule of law” appears to be the rational achievement of modern state governance. In reality, however, it is more often a mechanism for maintaining existing systems than a genuine model of governance. A nation may have a complete legal system and standardized procedures, but this does not necessarily mean it is well-governed. The reasons are as follows:

• Law can itself be a tool of oppression.
  Nazi Germany had a comprehensive legal code, and South Africa under apartheid also acted “according to the law.” Yet in both cases, the law was not designed for all citizens—it served specific races or regimes.
• Law is not neutral. it is a reflection of the underlying values behind the system.
  In capitalist nations, the law upholds private property as its highest value, while in authoritarian states, its foremost aim is to secure political order. In both cases, the rights of citizens are routinely sacrificed for the sake of “legitimacy.”
• Rule of law cannot correct structural injustice.
  Laws are merely rules, but it is the institutions behind them that determine whether fairness is possible. If the design of these rules excludes the possibility of citizen participation, shared governance, and common good, then even the most complete legal system becomes nothing more than a pretext for procedural injustice.

In other words, the rule of law can maintain order, but it cannot create justice. When citizens are excluded from participating as the true subjects of law, the system becomes a softened form of power — a bloodless authoritarianism.

Although the rule of law is a basic element of modern governance, it remains a procedural mechanism rather than a governing paradigm. It preserves order but does not shape vision.

• Nazi Germany had a complete legal system, yet it used law to kill with legitimacy.
• During apartheid, South Africa enforced racial discrimination through law.
• In many countries today, “national security laws” are used to restrict free expression and punish dissent — all justified as lawful governance.

These historical facts have revealed that:

1. When legislation is controlled by non-civic mechanisms, the very perfection of law turns into a satire on justice.
2. True law arises only from the collective will of citizens who share the right to shape their own governance.

In short, the rule of law is not an end in itself but a means. Without the core value of complete citizenship, it risks turning into a form of legalized oppression.

III. The real solution: a governance model centered on complete citizens

What does it mean to build a nation around its citizens? It is not a slogan but a systemic logic. it is a comprehensive reconstruction of social governance. There are five primary features:

1. Recognition and protection of the “complete citizen”:
   A complete citizen possesses political decision-making power (such as legislative participation and the right to referendum), economic sovereignty (including labor dividends and public capital shares), social security (through welfare systems), and cultural freedom (a space for thought and expression free from oppression).
2. Broad civic participation in governance:
   The operation of state power should be built on citizen assemblies, social consultation mechanisms, and local self-governance — not on administrative bureaucracies or oligarchic elites.
3. Public resources open to all citizens:
   Education, healthcare, land, natinoal data, and finance should no longer be monopolized by the state or controlled by capital. They must be governed and shared through citizen trust systems.
4. Institutional transparency and civic participation:
   All processes of institutional design should be open and transparent. Citizens should have the right to propose, veto, and amend policies through democratic mechanisms.
5. Civilizational ethics and values above capital or security logic:
   The ultimate goal of governance should shift toward collective well-being and the sustainable growth of civilization, rather than mere economic expansion or authoritarian stability.

1. What is a complete citizen?

A complete citizen does not simply mean someone who holds official identification. It refers to an individual who is endowed with full rights to participate in, decide upon, and share the outcomes of state governance, including at least:

A complete citizen is not an abstract symbol, but a tangible force within the governance of the state.

Only when these rights are institutionalized, enforceable, and transparent do citizens truly become the masters of their nation.

2. Five institutional principles of citizen-centered governance

1. Shared governance structure: Major state decisions, resource allocation, and budget use should be grounded in citizen assemblies, public forums, and local self-governance systems.
2. Shared benefits system: Social wealth, including public capital, natural resources, and data assets, should be managed through a “citizen dividend fund,” distributing dividends to all citizens.
3. Consensus mechanisms: Deliberative democracy should serve as the institutional core, avoiding one-size-fits-all mandates while accommodating diversity, differences, and balancing interests.
4. Shared responsibilities: Citizens not only enjoy rights but also bear institutional responsibilities, such as supervising state power, participating in budget decisions, and protecting the environment.
5. Shared goals: The objectives of governance should no longer be mere economic growth or regime stability, but rather civilizational well-being, social engagement, and institutional trust.

VI. The evolution of governance: from subjects to citizens, from control to co-governance

Modes of governance do not emerge overnight. They are the outcome of continuous historical evolution.

Conclusion: Governance built around complete citizens is not an abstract ideal. It provides a concrete way to counter information tyranny, centralized power, and capital domination.

V. Global governance models: who is advancing toward citizen-led co-governance?

The conclusion is simple: efficient governance does not equal a civilized society. Citizen status is the key factor in judging the quality of a governance model. The first benchmark of good governance is citizens’ institutional position, not economic output or political stability.

VI. The historical and civilizational necessity of citizen-centered governance

• History moves from subjects to citizens, from domination to co-governance.
  Whether it was the French Revolution, the American War of Independence, or the democratic transitions in post-colonial states, the underlying essence has always been the pursuit of citizen agency.
• With the rapid advancement of technology, governance need to return to human-centered collaboration.
  With AI, blockchain, and data governance, old-style centralized control is too expensive and hard to trust. A country can only be strong, open, efficient, and fair if citizens are actively involved in decision-making networks.

The society of the future will be one of co-governance, not mere regulation.
Global challenges—like climate change, pandemics, and resource scarcity—force countries to adopt universal participation mechanisms. Citizens should become the designers, implementers, and evaluators of institutions. Otherwise, the system loses its legitimacy.

VII. Systemic risks and future governance challenges

A citizen-centered governance model is not a “perfect state” and must confront several real-world challenges:

• Populist polarization: Unrestricted citizen participation may lead to emotional politics and rising xenophobia.
• Data monopoly: If AI, large models, and algorithmic platforms are not publicly owned, a new digital ruling class could emerge.
• Governance fatigue: Without incentives and institutional feedback, citizen participation can fall into superficial democracy.
• Fragmented governance: Diverse participation without top-level consensus may result in uncoordinated policies and localism.

The solution is to create a governance system that brings together deliberation, public data, civic education, and citizen responsibilities, enabling a virtuous cycle of co-governance.

Conclusion: The ultimate purpose of a state is not to rule, but to ensure the happiness of its people living together. The height of civilization is determined by the depth of its citizens’ participation.

Whether a country is truly “civilized” does not depend on how much wealth it produces or how strong its military is. It depends on whether every citizen is recognized as a genuine master of the state, whether institutional arrangements guarantee their rights to participate in governance, pursue happiness, and contribute to civilization—and whether these rights are actually exercised.

In other words, a civilized state acknowledges, institutionalizes, and empowers each citizen’s rights to governance, well-being, and participation in democracy.

The so-called citizen-centered governance model is not just a systemic innovation. It is a great return to the true purpose of the state—a community built by the people, for the people, and run together by the people.

In this era of institutional disputes, uncontrolled technology, and crossroads of civilization, we must take this decisive step: return power to the people, restore authority to the citizenry, and build a state that truly belongs to every complete citizen.

We must move beyond the hypocrisy of “people-centered” rhetoric and the partial logic of “rule of law,” and return to the simplest, yet the most powerful principle of governance: each person, as a complete citizen, co-governs, co-owns, and co-creates the civilization of their state.

I. The essence of Yicheng welfare

Our commitment has been clear from the beginning. That is to pursue welfare and happiness for everyone, and to promote civilization for the world.

Since day one, our cause has been grounded in this belief. What’s truly thought-provoking, however, is that over the years, all of our funding and support have come, without exception, from the strength of people with religious faiths or spiritual beliefs—those who are committed to turning their faith, love, and kindness into tangible actions. Through their sincerity and dedication, they have helped advance our mission, spreading happiness and promoting civilization.

Unfortunately, up until now, we have not received support from those identified as “civilized individuals” or “non-believers.” In fact, this type of support has been absent.

II. Why does kindness require the basis of faith?

The path of kindness is never a smooth one. It requires unwavering belief, inner strength, and selfless dedication—qualities that faith provides. Kindness without the support of faith often lacks lasting motivation and struggles to endure the pressures and challenges of reality.

The supporters of our organization are willing to persist in doing good in this complex world precisely because of their deep faith. They understand that charity is not an easy task and may even involve sacrifice, yet they are still willing to shoulder this responsibility.

Here we would like to share a story.

A painter was interviewed by a host. The host candidly told him, “I don’t like your paintings at all, and I don’t think you’re a good artist.”

The painter smiled calmly and replied, “You’re right, and that’s exactly why I need to keep striving.”

This story teaches us that when faced with external doubt and misunderstanding, the important thing is not to argue, but to stay loyal to our beliefs and respond through actions. Our cause, much like the painter’s work, may not be understood by everyone, but that will not stop us from pursuing happiness and civilization. The voices of doubt will not hold us back; instead, they serve as a source of motivation for us to keep striving and improving.

III. Don’t judge our world through your narrow perspective

On the path of charity, we sometimes have to face not just challenges but also external misunderstanding and even hostile criticism. Some people try to use their own experiences, perspectives, and logic to make sense of our world and social issues, but such reasoning often lacks validity.

The reality of kindness is far more complex than they imagine. In some places, working to benefit society can come with the constant threat of losing one’s life. This isn’t an exaggeration. It’s the harsh reality many people involved in public welfare face. So, trying to understand the essence of charity through personal logic, without considering the deep faith and sense of mission behind it, only leads to distorted conclusions.

IV. Let kindness overcome the constraints of a limited view

In the face of these misunderstandings, we will not give up or back down. We believe that true kindness is not limited by narrow personal views, but is a force that can break through prejudice and cross boundaries.

Charity initiatives require not only the support of people of faiths and beliefs but also the understanding and participation of everyone. Each person has the choice to approach charity with an open mind, rather than criticizing and rejecting it with a narrow perspective.

No matter how the outside world evaluates us, we will continue to rely on the strength of our faith to stay true to the path of doing good. Just like the painter’s calm response to the host, doubt will only drive us to work harder, not retreat.

The meaning of public welfare lies in seeking happiness for all and civilization for the world. Through our actions, we hope to inspire more people to recognize and practice kindness, regardless of their faith, because kindness should be a universal value that transcends all boundaries.

Conclusion

Don’t allow personal narrow views to hinder kindness, and never let bias and misunderstanding diminish the efforts of those who contribute to public welfare. The world needs more understanding, support, and faith to unite in driving the progress of human happiness and civilization.

We are still on the journey, even though the road is fraught with challenges. Our belief remains unchanged: to seek welfare for all and civilization for the world. We firmly believe that true kindness is a light that is unafraid of doubt and sacrifice, one that will penetrate all narrowness and illuminate the entire world.

For a better world, happiness lies in dreams, hopes, and connections

When I was a child, I believed that happiness was a deeply personal feeling—something shaped by small hopes and dreams, like having a fulfilling job, a loving home, or the chance to travel the world. But over time, I came to realize that what seems like simple desires to some are distant and unreachable dreams for many others across the world. In fact, in faraway places, there are countless others living in extreme hardship and turmoil.

I used to feel powerless, lost, and overwhelmed by this realization. But as I began my work in Yicheng Commonweal, I realized that happiness is not just a personal feeling—but a hope, a force that can grow and spread. It is not merely an individual experience, but a connection between people. It’s one dream inspiring another, and many hands working together to create something far bigger than any one person could achieve alone.

It is this very faith that led me to establish Yicheng Commonweal. Our dream is for everyone to attain well-being and happiness, even though many dismiss it as unrealistic and scoff at the idea. Indeed, the bigger the dream, the greater the support and resources required. But history will bear witness that the shared human desire for happiness will overcome all obstacles and turn this vision into a reality.

Whether it’s the expansion of education, the improvement of living standards, or the nurturing of the spirit, happiness is not as distant as it may seem. As long as there are people committed to making it happen, it can spread like a gentle spring breeze into every corner. Yicheng Commonweal is not just a NGO with a mission, but represents a collective pursuit of happiness for a better world. This belief reinforces my conviction that building such an organization is not only the right choice, but also the most effective way to make dreams come true.

My dream: making happiness accessible to everyone for a better world

Even though Yicheng Commonweal is still in its early stages, I have already come to realize that happiness isn’t some abstract idea—it is something that can be shaped and shared.

I once had a conversation with a 16-year-old volunteer who shared her dream with me. She was working hard to learn a foreign language with the goal of studying abroad, and she had been tirelessly working to save money so she could eventually create a language learning center in her hometown. Although she was already on the path to making her dream a reality, she often found herself overwhelmed with self-doubt and anxiety about whether her dreams would ever come true.

I told her earnestly that her future held limitless potential, and that all she needed to do was keep trying. I also introduced her to some resources that could help her overcome the challenges she was facing at that moment. She was deeply moved and said that, aside from her parents, no one had ever encouraged or supported her like that. She couldn’t believe that there were such kind people in the world.

She said that she hoped to become someone like me someday and help more people in the future and make a better world.

At that moment, I was taken aback, because I suddenly realized that the possibility of happiness doesn’t lie in making a big change or having vast material resources and power. It lies in taking real action to make someone feel that they are not alone—that there are people who care about their existence and genuinely love them. At the same time, I made a quiet vow to transform this love into the power of public welfare, to help more people and give everyone the chance to realize their dreams and find happiness for a better world.

This experience also taught me an important lesson: charity is not just about one-way giving. It is about the connection of souls between people. Many people hesitate to care for others and the world, not because they lack the ability, but because they don’t believe that such a great love exists in the world. Once they have a personal experience and encounter it for themselves, they are impressed, and they become more willing to embrace the world and release their own love and kindness.

Therefore, each action is a crucial step toward happiness. With each attempt and effort, we unlock more possibilities for happiness and gather the strength of more people to make it a reality. When we light up someone else’s hope, we also gain a clearer understanding of the true meaning of happiness.

A dream is a commitment to make our planet a better world to coexist

The experiences in Yicheng Commonweal has taught me that happiness is not something to wait for, but something that must be created together. This creation is not about one-sided giving, but about transforming goodwill into a lasting force, making each person a builder of happiness.

The philosophy of Yicheng Commonweal embodies this very idea. Through the promotion of education, the inheritance of culture, and the guidance of faith, we are not just helping others solve immediate problems. We are building a bridge for them to reach happiness to create a better world. This approach of “teaching people to fish” has shown me that true philanthropy is not about one-time charity, but about planting the seeds of happiness deeply in every person’s heart, enabling them to sow and harvest for themselves.

For me, this is also a promise—a promise to dedicate my time and actions to protect the possibility of happiness for a better world, a promise to ensure that every act of kindness gathers into a force capable of changing destinies, and a promise that, come what may, I will persist on this path, never turning back.

The end of my dream: a world of collective happiness creates a better world

I really love the image of “flying.”

Humanity’s obsession with flying gave birth to the invention of airplanes. Without the yearning for the skies or the dream of soaring through the heavens, none of this would have been possible.

The journey to realizing a dream is much like flying.

The journey toward fulfilling dreams is never without its challenges. In my pursuit of welfare ideal, there were moments when I felt exhausted and powerless, times when I doubted whether my efforts would truly bring about change.

But each time, it is these experiences that reaffirm my belief: the true destination of flight is never personal glory, but a better world of happiness meant for all of humanity.

What Yicheng Commonweal does is not just helping individuals solve their immediate problems. It is about building a society with greater well-being. Through education, we change the future of a child; through economics, we help people grow in material wealth; through care, we bring warmth to lonely souls; and through collective effort, we ensure that everyone can feel the dignity and meaning of life.

This is not only my dream, but also the shared pursuit of every person involved in philanthropy.

Conclusion

I always fly with my dream. The significance of this dream goes far beyond personal ambition. It is a belief rooted in the world and in the happiness of every life. Through Yicheng Commonweal, I have discovered the way to turn this dream into reality, and I have come to understand the true purpose of philanthropy. It is not about being a “giver,” but about being a co-builder and co-creator of happiness for a better world.

No matter how many challenges lie ahead, I will continue to soar with this dream. Because I know that this is not only my personal mission to make a better world, but also a commitment to the world and to everyone who walks this path with me. Happiness is our shared destination, and flying is the way we reach it.

Let’s gather in action, my friends. I am Daohe, the cofounder of Yicheng Commonweal!

We aim to transform volunteers into future organizers and leaders, empowering every volunteer to grow through service. Their contributions extend beyond temporary aid, focusing on cultivating a lasting culture of public service and enriching the values of social and cultural advancement.

I. Transforming Volunteer Roles: From Helpers to Organizers and Leaders

In traditional volunteer activities, volunteers often play supporting roles, ensuring the smooth execution of events and successful completion of tasks. However, in today’s world, many young people are driven by an inner desire to explore their capabilities and push their boundaries. They want more than just involvement—they seek personal growth and meaningful accomplishments. We believe that volunteer service should transcend the notion of “helping others” and evolve into a journey that ignites passion and creativity in life. Through volunteering, they not only serve others but also shape themselves, transforming their volunteer experiences into stepping stones for the future.

Yicheng Commonweal aims to empower volunteers with greater initiative and a stronger sense of responsibility, transforming them from “helpers” who complete tasks into “organizers and leaders” who can plan, manage, and lead projects. We encourage our volunteers to not just contribute through actions but explore various roles based on their personal interests. In the process of planning and executing projects, they strengthen their skills, cultivate outstanding organizational and leadership qualities, and take on the responsibility of inspiring and guiding others. Through their efforts, they motivate more people to engage and spark a wider enthusiasm for social participation.

This shift in roles allows volunteers to continue growing while driving public welfare toward greater professionalism and sustainability, ultimately creating a lasting, positive influence on society.

II. Four Key Elements for Cultivating Volunteer Organizational and Leadership Skills

1. Building Team Cohesion and Collaboration Skills

Volunteers come from diverse cultural and regional backgrounds, each bringing unique values and behaviors. As future leaders and organizers, they must learn how to bring people together and strengthen teamwork. Yicheng Commonweal focuses on developing volunteers’ communication and empathy, enabling them to unite team members, leverage their strengths, and create a collaborative, high-performing team.

2. Providing Space for Growth and Innovation

Yicheng Commonweal offers volunteers opportunities for personal growth, allowing them to continuously improve through hands-on experience. By giving volunteers more authority and responsibility, they are able to take on tasks of varying levels, developing problem-solving and teamwork skills. Through this process, they gradually evolve into proactive leaders with strong leadership abilities.

3. Advocating for Values of Social Good

Volunteers play a dual role as both contributors and advocates of community service. Through their actions, they promote principles like mutual support, responsibility, and equality, planting the seeds of compassion and service in society. By embodying these values in their words and actions, volunteers inspire others to embrace charity and public service, elevating social awareness and driving progress in civilization.

4. The Ability to Proactively Drive Initiatives

In public welfare work, organizations often face challenges such as limited resources and insufficient support. This requires volunteers to adopt a proactive mindset, taking the initiative to advance projects and ensure the sustainability of public welfare efforts. While this task can be challenging and demanding, it is also an opportunity to create real social value and enhance personal capabilities.

Yicheng Commonweal fully trusts in the potential of its volunteers, encouraging them to harness their initiative and actively contribute to the growth and improvement of public welfare endeavors.

III. Creating a Lasting Impact on Society 

Volunteers’ organizational abilities have far-reaching effects, not only shaping individual projects but also driving the evolution of social progress. By taking responsibility and inspiring others, they integrate public welfare values into communities, organizations, companies, and society as a whole.

Yicheng Commonweal’s volunteers prove that public welfare is a shared responsibility, not limited to organizations. By promoting a “participation for all, benefits for all” approach, we foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of public welfare values in society.

IV. The Three Development Stages of Yicheng Commonweal and Support for Volunteers

Yicheng Commonweal is divided into three branches: Commonweal Research Center, Commonweal Union, and Economy Entity. These branches represent three distinct development stages, offering volunteers practical experience, fostering their growth, and providing a platform to develop into future leaders.

1. Public Welfare Research Center

At its early phase, Yicheng Commonweal established the Commonweal Research Center, focusing on studying and analyzing various social issues to propose innovative and sustainable solutions. By exploring paths to happiness, civilization, and long-term well-being, the center provides a strong theoretical foundation for the organization and society. It also equips volunteers with essential knowledge through theory-based learning and research.

2. Commonweal Union

Building on research outcomes, Yicheng Commonweal established the Commonweal Union to translate insights into action. By integrating volunteer services with social resources and collaborating with other organizations, the Union creates an extensive public welfare network that applies research findings to real-world challenges.

The Commonweal Union provides volunteers with a dynamic platform to practice and grow, helping them transform theoretical knowledge into actionable initiatives that promote global cultural exchange and social progress. This collaboration between volunteers and the welfare network is mutually supportive and ever-expanding, enabling the volunteer teams to grow without limits. The Union not only serves as a growth framework for volunteers but also amplifies the societal impact of their actions.

3. Commonweal Economy

As the Commonweal Union expands, Yicheng Commonweal aims to develop the Commonweal Economy by integrating public welfare with social and economic development. The goal is to create sustainable business models and economic networks aligned with welfare objectives, offering tangible financial support to volunteers and community members.

This stage involves the establishment of social enterprises to ensure the continuous flow of resources into our charity. Volunteers transition from participants to leaders of societal progress, with opportunities to grow into successful entrepreneurs and innovators, contributing to both public good and economic vitality.

Conclusion

Yicheng Commonweal remains committed to empowering volunteers to become the organizers and leaders of tomorrow through continuous action and innovation. Here, volunteers evolve from performing basic tasks to leading impactful initiatives, from helping others to guiding teams, and ultimately becoming influential forces for societal progress. Their dedication not only advances the cause of public welfare but also brings hope and vitality to the future of society. Moving forward, these volunteers will leverage their strengthened organizational and leadership skills to guide society toward greater unity and harmony.

Introduction

Recently, while explaining the vision and mission of Yicheng Commonweal to others, I noticed something quite strange. Many people lack the understanding of civilization, or they are confused about the concept. So what exactly is civilization? Why is it so abstract and so hard to understand?

When people lack a proper perspective on civilization, it becomes difficult to see the direction of society. This article discusses the concept of civilization and why Yicheng Commonweal was established to promote the advancement of civilization.

I. The Definition of Civilization

Civilization is the sum of the physical and spiritual achievements that human societies accumulate over time. It includes the formation and evolution of political and economic systems, social institutions and laws, culture, and value systems. Civilization is like a house that guarantees the people living inside. The structure, size, and quality of the civilization house—shaped by governance, education, culture, and social welfare—directly influence people’s living conditions and mental state. In essence, the average quality of life and collective well-being in a society depend on its civilization.

Like houses, civilizations vary greatly in quality. Some are like shabby shacks, unable to provide basics for its residents. In contrast, some are like luxurious villas, offering comfort and security. The pursuit of a better life is at the heart of the constant advancement of civilization, which is the driving force behind the continuous advancement of social civilization.

The question is, how do we evaluate the level of civilization in society? The more civilized a society is, the better its systems and institutions support the growth and well-being of its people. A highly civilized society fosters the values and practices of goodness, morality, love, and dignity, encouraging flourishing development across all aspects. In contrast, societies with lower levels of civilization often trample on these values, promote toxic ideologies, and undermine people’s well-being, creating a vicious cycle of decline. 

In a more civilized society, individuals receive greater social support, requiring less effort to achieve success and happiness in life. Instead, in less developed societies, individuals face significant barriers to personal growth and prosperity, often requiring an extraordinary amount of effort—sometimes hundreds or thousands of times more — just to attain what others may take for granted. In these societies, people usually suffer from all sorts of great hardship. 

Once you comprehend what civilization truly means, it becomes clear how societies differ in their levels of civilization. Even now, the disparity in civilization levels between nations and districts is clear, directly corresponding to differences in overall well-being. This can be clearly seen in migration trends. While people may not always have a clear understanding of civilization, the pursuit of well-being is universal, motivating many to move to more developed societies.

II. Civilization Needs to Be Maintained and Upgraded

Without a proper perspective and scale of understanding civilization, it is difficult for people to comprehend the flow of human history and the future direction of civilization, which may result in a few common misconceptions. 

1. The Optimistic View: Observing the economic and scientific achievements of human societies in the past, some people become blindly optimistic, so they believe as society “naturally” develops, human society will keep developing itself.

2. The Pessimistic View: After witnessing the decline and collapse of civilizations throughout history and all sorts of man-made disasters, some conclude that human nature is inherently evil and that human actions are essentially pointless. Seeing this historical pattern, they predict that civilization will inevitably fall again.

3. The Apathy View: Unable to see clearly, some choose to shut their eyes and avoid contemplating these issues. They believe that individual lives have no connection to societal development and that individual success depends solely on personal efforts. Alternatively, they may lack vision for the future and content themselves with living in the present.

In reality, all three of these mindsets are problematic and can lead to  poor life decisions. The development of civilization is not a natural or automatic process. Instead, it is shaped by the choices of individuals within society. History is merely the result and feedback of those choices and actions. The progress of civilization depends on people who are thoughtful, engaged, and dedicated to addressing societal issues. Without their efforts and critical thinking, society will face difficulties in progressing.

When the overwhelming majority of people decide to tolerate and enable evil, rather than pushing for the advancement of goodness, the forces of corruption will rise, causing society to deteriorate. In contrast, when people choose good and virtue, resisting evil and injustice, society will move forward in a positive direction, creating benefits and hope for its people.

Inaction is, in itself, a decision. If people are dissatisfied with their circumstances but choose not to make changes — simply conforming to the status quo — they allow evil to spread and invite man-made disasters. If civilization does not progress toward a better direction, it will stagnate or even regress. As British historian Arnold Toynbee said, Civilizations die from suicide, not by murder.

As a result, it is crucial for individuals to actively maintain and advance the various systems and institutions within society, including the economy, politics, education, law, culture, and welfare systems. This kind of social practice is what will steadily elevate people’s living standards, bringing sustained happiness and hope, and enabling the “house” of civilization to grow and upgrade.

III. The Different Stages of Human Civilization

Throughout history, human society has progressed through various stages of civilization, each marked by distinct characteristics and systems. These stages can broadly be divided into three major categories: the Slave Society, the Feudal Society, the Capitalist Society.  In the future, we will soon witness the emergence of the Social Citizen Society.

1. The Slave Society: The system is based on the complete dehumanization of one group for the benefit of another. The fundamental belief in this society is that some people are meant to serve others, and the slaves themselves internalize this belief, seeing themselves as inherently subordinate.

2. The Feudal Society: This system was built upon coercion, deception, and the consolidation of power by a select few. People were expected to focus solely on their own lives and the well-being of their families, showing little interest in the larger social or political changes occurring around them.

3. The Capitalist Society: This system is based on business employment, commercial transactions, labor exploitation, and financial manipulation, where power is concentrated in the hands of capitalists and financiers. People are at risk of being exploited by capital interests and deceived by financial institutions. The values of freedom, equality, democracy are widely recognized and people participate in politics mainly to protect their personal interests as well as secure their rights.

4. The Social Citizen Society: It is based on a capitalist financial system that operates on principles of cooperation, mutual benefit, co-creation, and shared prosperity. Compared with the current capitalist system, it mainly serves the interests of social citizens instead of capitalists. The ideals of freedom, democracy, equality, and creativity resonate deeply, empowering people to become the leaders and catalysts of social progress.

The differences between these stages of civilization have led to significant disparities in the quality of life and cultural values around the world. While some societies on Earth are heading towards social citizen society, some are still struggling in the model of feudal society, leading to great gap in quality of life and cultural values among different regions. It is a heartbreaking fact, and the reason why we are so committed to civilization education.

IV. Faith is the Soul of Civilization

Faith remains a constant force in human civilization, like the sun in the sky—unaffected by progress or decline. Faith is the driving force behind humanity’s pursuit of goodness and virtue. It is the deep, inherent choice within the soul of every individual. Without the support and guidance of faith, acts of kindness and goodness are hard to sustain. In societies where civilization is underdeveloped, faith serves as the only form of salvation, providing the motivation for people to act and the spiritual strength to guide societal transformation.

Faith is not limited to religions. It encompasses any value system that promotes goodness and virtue. Some may not believe in any religion but instead hold firm to ideals such as freedom, equality, democracy, and justice. These beliefs guide individuals toward societal progress. This is why Yicheng Commonweal focuses on enhancing and developing faith—recognizing all beliefs that inspire positive change.

V. Education Shapes the Future of Civilization

Education is the key to nurturing the next generation of leaders. The security and well-being of society in the future will depend on the systems we build today, as well as the quality of the education we provide. This obvious truth is often overlooked, yet it is the key to long-term social stability and progress. Education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and innovate, and these leaders are the ones who will shape the future direction of society.

Outdated education systems produce individuals who are ill-prepared to meet the demands of an ever-evolving world. When education fails to adapt to new challenges and emerging needs, it creates a gap between what society requires and the talents it produces. This disconnect leads to stagnation, where social development lacks momentum and the potential for future progress diminishes. 

On the other hand, by nurturing individuals who are equipped with the right skills, values, and critical thinking abilities, education fosters innovation, creativity, and leadership, enabling society to evolve and thrive.

Daohe also shared her insight on some of the myths people have about civilization.

1. The level of civilization in society is determined by its economic progress.

Economic development is a necessary condition for the progress of civilization and a reflection of that progress, but it is not a sufficient condition. A more advanced civilization tends to nurture greater intellectual freedom and creativity, encouraging people to work together, share, and support one another, which drives further economic progress.

However, as mentioned earlier, civilization encompasses various systems and institutions within a society. While the economic system is a key aspect, it is just one part of the broader system. Political structures, cultural norms, and other systems—both tangible and intangible—also impact the progression of civilization and shape a society’s development. Even in a society with a strong economy, if other systems fall behind, it weakens the ability to handle risks and undermines the potential for long-term progress.

A historical example can be found in the Punic Wars, fought between the Roman and Carthaginian Empires in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE. Despite Carthage’s commercial prosperity and naval power, it was defeated by Rome, which had less economic and military strength. What factors contributed to Carthage’s defeat?

The reason behind Rome’s triumph lies in the fact that, except for its naval and economic strength, it was far more advanced than Carthage in key areas such as politics, law, and diplomacy. Moreover, Roman society was bound together by a strong sense of patriotism, where the preservation of the state was the ultimate value. This cultural cohesion gave them the strength to endure hardships and continue fighting, even when facing significant losses.

On the other hand, Carthage was prosperous—its wealth was precisely what made it a target for Roman expansion. However, rather than relying on a dedicated citizen army, Carthage hired foreign mercenaries, as its people were more concerned with commercial gain than defending their nation. As a result, the mercenaries lacked loyalty, and some even betrayed Carthage during their defeats by switching allegiance to Rome. Even the military genius of Hannibal failed to save Carthage, as the government failed to give him the support he needed, which contributed to the eventual collapse of the empire.

This makes it clear that while economic development offers significant benefits to society, it must be supported by other systems. Without this, economic progress may become a destructive temptation for others. Even without external pressures, a society that neglects cultural and intellectual growth can become lost in confusion and disillusionment, paving the way for corruption to flourish.

2. Civilization is the moral level of a society. In primitive tribes, the system was generally communal, with no appearance or division of social classes, making primitive tribes more “civilized”.

Firstly, during the time of primitive tribes, human societies were small in scale and characterized by low productivity. Advanced systems of labor division and collaboration had yet to develop. Living relied on direct sharing of resources and basic production methods, not on the complex organization seen in technologically, culturally, and economically advanced societies. Therefore, discussing the “level of civilization” at this point in history is irrelevant.

Secondly, the lifestyle and relationships among members of the tribe were more shaped by the need to survive than by any high moral standards. To survive, they adopted the most practical approach to resource sharing given their circumstances.

Directly associating the resource allocation systems of primitive tribes with moral standards or the level of civilization is a misinterpretation and oversimplification of the concept of “civilization.” Civilization’s true essence lies in how efficiently a society organizes and manages itself to enhance the well-being of all its members while safeguarding individual interests.

Thank you for choosing to join Yicheng Commonweal as a volunteer! We are committed to advancing social civilization, public welfare, and collective well-being through our collective efforts, while spreading love and warmth. This welcome guide will help you integrate smoothly into our team, understand your key responsibilities and expectations, and take the first step on your rewarding volunteer journey.

1. Our Mission

Our mission is to enhance the common good and the quality of life through volunteer service. We believe that every volunteer’s contribution is invaluable and each action you take will lead to meaningful change in the community.

Our commitment to public service focuses on fostering social progress through both rightful ideas and practical actions, enhancing well-being for all, while continuously improving both living standards and the spiritual growth of individuals.

2. Core Values of Our Volunteers

• Selfless Service: Volunteering is an act of giving without expectation of reward, where contributions are made in a selfless way.
• Responsibility: Embrace the responsibilities of being a volunteer, ensuring that every task is completed with care and dedication.
• Teamwork: A spirit of collaboration is essential for the success of our volunteer efforts. Together, we can create a greater impact.
• Respect and Inclusivity: Recognize and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and needs of different communities, fostering an environment of understanding and acceptance.

3. Yicheng Commonweal volunteers can be categorized into three types based on their interest and focus: 

• Volunteers of Civilization: Individuals dedicated to fostering social civility through major social aspects and enhancing community engagement.
•  Volunteers of Faith: Those who promote and support initiatives related to faith and spiritual growth.
• Volunteers of Welfare: Those who focus on charitable efforts and community service to address various social needs.

4. Basic Code of Conduct

• Punctuality: Arriving on time for events shows respect for both the team and those we serve.
• Follow Directions: Adhere to the organizer’s instructions and cooperate actively to ensure smooth event execution.
• Etiquette: Always communicate with respect and patience when interacting with service recipients or team members, avoiding inappropriate language.
• Protect Privacy: Maintain confidentiality regarding any personal information learned during service.

5. Responsibilities of Volunteers

• Understand the Task: Before participating in an event, make sure to clarify its purpose, procedures, and your specific role.
• Engage Actively: Maintain a proactive attitude during the service, helping others and addressing any issues that arise.
• Provide Feedback for Improvement: After the service concludes, share your experiences and suggestions to help enhance future activities.

6. Volunteer Service Process

• Registration and Confirmation: Sign up through the official website or event platform, and wait for confirmation from the organizers.
• Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the event procedures, prepare for necessary equipment, and arrive at the venue ahead of time.
• Service Implementation: follow the assigned roles and the established procedures to help ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
• Summary and Feedback: After the event, submit feedback to share your service experience and suggestions for improvement.

7. Encouragement and Growth

• Recognition and Rewards: We regularly recognize outstanding volunteers and offer certificates or acknowledgments to celebrate your contributions.
• Growth Opportunities: By participating in training sessions or leadership courses, volunteers can enhance their skills in communication, organization, and management, among other areas.

Personal Growth Opportunities at Yicheng Commonweal:

Volunteers have the chance to become ambassadors for Yicheng Commonweal. If you are passionate about the cause of Yicheng Commonweal and demonstrate outstanding abilities in the long term, you may have the opportunity to become a regional leader. Additionally, volunteers can freely choose their roles and pathways within our three main institutions: the Research Center, the Commonweal Union, and the Commonweal Economic Entity.

Thank you once again for joining us! We look forward to working together to create a better society through volunteer service!