When combined, 人心 (rénxīn) literally means “people's heart(s).” This fusion creates a concept that is both personal and collective. It refers to the inner world of a person but is most often used to speak about the shared conscience and will of the public at large.
In Chinese culture, 人心 is a cornerstone of political and social philosophy, deeply rooted in Confucian thought. The ancient philosopher Mencius famously stated, “He who wins the hearts of the people, wins the empire” (得人心者得天下, dé rénxīn zhě dé tiānxià). This idea posits that a ruler's legitimacy (the “Mandate of Heaven”) is not divinely given but earned through just and benevolent governance that aligns with the people's moral sentiment. This contrasts sharply with the Western concept of “public opinion.” Public opinion is often seen as volatile, measurable by polls, and something that can be manipulated by media or political campaigns. 人心, on the other hand, is considered deeper, more stable, and rooted in fundamental morality and justice. It's less about what people think on a given day and more about their core allegiance and ethical judgment over time. A leader can have a 55% approval rating (good public opinion) but could still be seen as “losing the hearts of the people” (失人心) if their actions are perceived as fundamentally immoral or unjust. This concept promotes a collective value system where the well-being and moral sentiment of the group are paramount. Even today, the Chinese government frequently uses language about “uniting the people's hearts” (凝聚人心) to justify policies and promote social stability.
人心 is a powerful and somewhat formal term, often found in news, political speeches, historical discussions, and philosophical proverbs.