扶弱济贫是中华民族的传统美德。孔孟的仁爱大同思想、管子的“九惠之教”、墨子的兼爱互利构成了中国救助弱势群体思想的重要源头。当前,救助弱势群体是发扬中华民族优良传统的需要,是社会主义人道主义的必然要求,是全体社会成员的责任和义务,是构建以人为本社会主义和谐社会的应有之义。救助弱势群体可使广大人民体会到集体的力量和合作的力量,从而增强集体主义意识。 Weakness and poverty alleviation are the traditional virtues of the Chinese nation. Confucius and Mencius’ philosophy of benevolence, Datong’s “education of nine benefits” and Mozi’s mutual love and mutual benefit constitute the important source of China’s thought of helping the disadvantaged groups. At present, the rescue of vulnerable groups is the need to promote the fine tradition of the Chinese nation, an inevitable requirement of socialist humanitarianism, a responsibility and obligation of all members of the society, and a due responsibility for building a people-oriented socialist harmonious society. Rescue vulnerable groups will enable the general public to appreciate the strength of the collective and the cooperation so as to enhance the awareness of collectivism.