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04:32

Editor's note: CGTN's First Voice provides instant commentary on breaking stories. The column clarifies emerging issues and better defines the news agenda, offering a Chinese perspective on the latest global events.

If no one is watching, would you still stay true to your principles?In The Republic, Plato posed a thought experiment involving a ring of invisibility. Ancient Chinese thinkers offered their own answer: "Shen Du," or the principle of remaining true to oneself and exercising self-restraint even when alone. As traditional Chinese culture captivates a new generation, these age-old ideals of self-reflection and self-discipline are finding new relevance. From personal integrity in private to a political party's willingness to hold itself to account, let's explore how China's cultural heritage informs both "Shen Du" and the CPC's commitment to full and rigorous self-governance.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com. Follow @thouse_opinions on X to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)

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What traditional Chinese wisdom reveals about self-discipline and Party governance