"Learn from the masses, and then teach them"

This quote means that one must observe and gain from the common people, and then use their understanding to educate and boost them. Mao Tse-Tung believed that the masses had intrinsic wisdom, which it was the task of leaders to harness that wisdom to better society. By understanding the needs and concerns of individuals, leaders might develop more reliable policies and programs. At the same time, leaders also had a duty to share their own understanding with the masses, assisting them to improve their own lives and add to the greater good.