Deng Xiaoping

Modernized China's economy

Contemporary influential 77 sayings

Sayings by Deng Xiaoping

It is necessary to strengthen the building of spiritual civilization.

1980s — Speech, referring to moral and cultural development
Controversial Unverifiable

No matter if it is a white cat or a black cat; as long as it can catch mice, it is a good cat.

Undated, but widely circulated during his reform era (1970s-1990s) — Statement on economic reform, emphasizing pragmatism over ideology, often associated with 'socialism…
Humorous Unverifiable

Keep a cool head and maintain a low profile. Never take the lead – but aim to do something big.

Undated, but a guiding principle during his leadership — Foreign policy strategy, known as 'hide your strength, bide your time' (韬光养晦).
Humorous Unverifiable

Poverty is not socialism.

Undated, but central to his reformist agenda — Statement on economic reform, challenging previous socialist ideals that equated poverty with purity…
Humorous Unverifiable

I am optimistic. It doesn't matter if the sky is falling, I am a little man, and you big men are against the sky.

1980s — To German Chancellor Helmut Kohl during a meeting.
Humorous Unverifiable

Has the US Congress passed a law banning smoking during the talks?

1979 — To US President Jimmy Carter during his visit to the United States.
Humorous Unverifiable

We could send you 10 million immigrants right away.

1979 — To US President Jimmy Carter, when pressed on Beijing's restrictions on emigration.
Humorous Unverifiable

Doesn't your father give you a slap on your face?

1980 — To Italian journalist Oriana Fallaci, who asked him very tough questions during an interview.
Humorous Unverifiable

If I don't break it, it can't stand?

Undated (part of an anecdote) — Part of a story/joke about him demonstrating how to stand an egg, playing on the Columbus's egg anec…
Humorous Unverifiable

There is no fundamental contradiction between socialism and a market economy.

Undated, but central to his reform era — Statement on economic policy, justifying market reforms within a socialist framework.
Humorous Unverifiable

Let some people get rich first.

1992 (during his 'Southern Tour') — Statement on economic development, promoting a gradual approach to prosperity.
Humorous Unverifiable

How would the Soviet Union dare to invade China if the superpower couldn't even take over Afghanistan?

1980s — General statement, expressing confidence in China's security and highlighting Soviet military strugg…
Humorous Unverifiable

You have to walk your own path.

Undated — Cautioning Jerry Rawlings, president of Ghana, against blindly copying China's development model.
Humorous Unverifiable

This man may look smart but in fact is stupid.

1989 — Referring to Mikhail Gorbachev after their meeting.
Humorous Unverifiable

If you open the window for fresh air, you have to expect some flies to come in.

1980 — On allowing capitalist reforms in China
Controversial Unverifiable

We must not fear to use the dictatorship of the proletariat.

1979 — Speech on suppressing dissent
Controversial Unverifiable

The students must be dealt with resolutely.

1989 — Before the Tiananmen Square massacre
Controversial Unverifiable