- Ideological indoctrination: The Little Red Book was designed as a tool for ideological indoctrination and political education within the CPC and Chinese society. It contained selected quotations from Mao's works that highlighted his revolutionary ideas, class struggle, and the importance of the Chinese Communist Party's leadership. By studying and reciting these quotations, individuals were expected to internalize Mao's thoughts and become loyal followers of his ideology.
- Promoting the Cult of Personality: The Little Red Book played a significant role in creating a cult of personality around Mao Zedong. It portrayed him as a visionary leader, a great thinker, and a charismatic figure whose words held profound wisdom and truth. By constantly carrying and reading the Little Red Book, individuals were encouraged to develop a deep reverence and loyalty to Mao, reinforcing his authority and position as the undisputed leader of China.
- Social Mobilization: The Little Red Book was used as a tool for social mobilization during the Cultural Revolution. It served as a guide for the Red Guards and other revolutionary groups, providing them with ideological inspiration and instructions for carrying out their missions. By quoting from the Little Red Book, these groups justified their actions and sought to transform Chinese society according to Mao's revolutionary vision.
- Symbols of Cultural Revolution: The Little Red Book became a symbol of the Cultural Revolution itself. Its ubiquity and widespread use signaled one's support for Mao and the revolutionary movement. Individuals who openly displayed and studied the Little Red Book were seen as loyal followers of Mao, while those who did not were potentially viewed with suspicion or even persecution.
Overall, the Little Red Book served as an important tool for disseminating Mao's ideology, shaping public opinion, and promoting a cult of personality during the Cultural Revolution in China.