The term "Five Constants" (Wuchang) refers to the five fundamental moral virtues that an individual in society should possess for personal development and social progress. These virtues are Ren (Benevolence), Yi (Righteousness), Li (Propriety), Zhi (Wisdom), and Xin (Trustworthiness).

Confucius first introduced the concepts of Ren, Yi, and Li, which were later expanded by Mencius to include Zhi. Dong Zhongshu further expanded the list to encompass Xin, thus completing the set of "Five Constants." These constants have been interwoven throughout the development of Chinese ethics and have become the most core elements in China's value system. As stated in the "Three Character Classic": "Ren, Yi, and Li, Zhi, and Xin, these Five Constants, in order we must begin."

In the context of Confucianism, Ren, which can be interpreted as the relationship between two people, is the foundational virtue that emphasizes compassion and humaneness. It is the principle that guides harmonious interactions and underscores the importance of empathy and altruism in social conduct.

Chinese Name: 五常 (Wuchang) Proposer: Confucius Expanders: Mencius, Dong Zhongshu Meaning: Ren (Benevolence), Yi (Righteousness), Li (Propriety), Zhi (Wisdom), Xin (Trustworthiness)

儒家五常

本词条是多义词，共5个义项

“五常”即仁、义、礼、智、信，是指“人”作为社会中的独立个体，为了自身的发展和社会的进步，而应该拥有的五种最基本的品格和德行。孔子最早提出“仁、义、礼”，孟子扩充提出“仁、义、礼、智”，后董仲舒再次扩充为“仁、义、礼、智、信”，后称“五常”。这“五常”贯穿于中华伦理的发展中，成为中国价值体系中的最核心因素。《三字经》中云“曰仁义，礼智信，此五常，不容紊 ”。仁，即二人。

中文名

五常

提出者

孔子

扩充者

孟子、董仲舒

含义

仁、义、礼、智、信