Junzi is employed in the "Classic of Changes" (易經, "I-ching"),[3] attributed traditionally to the Duke Wen of Zhou, and by Confucius in his works to describe the ideal human being.
Junzi act according to proper conduct (禮, lǐ or li) to bring about harmony (和, hé or he), which Confucianism maintains should rule the home, society, and the state.
[4] Li primarily has to do with social expectations, both in terms of the formal behavior and the execution of religious rites and imperial ceremonies also proper conduct in human relationships.
[6][7] A junzi embodies moral superiority by adhering to the ritual code of the tradition, displaying respect and dignity towards others, and striving for virtues such as humility, sincerity, trustworthiness, righteousness, and compassion.
[9](in Chinese) As the potential leader of a nation and country, the son of the ruler is raised to express superior ethical and moral positions while gaining inner peace through virtue.
Examples of such xiaoren individuals can range from those who indulge in self-satisfying sensual and emotional pleasures and gains to the career politician who is interested merely in power and fame rather than the long-term benefit of others.