Mao asked his audience, "How many of our comrades today have Hai Rui's courage?" The historical figure of Hai Rui was also referenced during the discussions at the Lushan Conference itself.
Mao posed a question to his audience: "Which of our fellow comrades today exhibit the bravery characteristic of Hai Rui?" The legendary Hai Rui was even mentioned during the Lushan Conference's own deliberations.