Introduction#
The Unspoken Rules (Revised Edition): The Real Game in Chinese History is a masterpiece by Wu Si, which reveals the unspoken rules in Chinese history and leads readers to a deep understanding of the informal games hidden beneath the formal rules. With his unique perspective and vivid writing style, Wu Si reveals how these unspoken rules have shaped every aspect of Chinese society throughout history.
Official History and Unofficial History#
In the long river of Chinese history, official history records the great achievements of emperors and officials, while unofficial history reveals the unknown hidden stories. Wu Si points out in the book that the unspoken rules are an important part of these unofficial histories. Although they are not officially recorded, they truly influence the operation of society and people's behavior.
Unspoken Rules in the Officialdom#
The officialdom is where the unspoken rules prevail. Wu Si showcases how officials maintain their positions through interest exchanges and power balances with cases like "Three Fires for a New Official" and "Survival Rules in the Officialdom." These unspoken rules not only affect the behavior of officials but also profoundly impact the entire officialdom's ecosystem.
Unspoken Rules in the Judicial Field#
The unspoken rules are also ubiquitous in the judicial field. Wu Si reveals the importance of social hierarchy and wealth in legal litigation with cases like "The Law Does Not Apply to the Rich and Powerful" and "No Money, No Justice." These unspoken rules often deviate from the intended fairness of the law in practical operation.
Unspoken Rules in Economic Activities#
Various unspoken rules permeate economic activities as well. Wu Si demonstrates how businessmen obtain benefits through unspoken rules with cases like "No Honest Businessman" and "Visible Feet and Invisible Hands." These unspoken rules not only affect fair competition in the market but also have a profound impact on the economic development of society.
Unspoken Rules in Social Life#
In social life, the unspoken rules are also omnipresent. Wu Si reveals the importance of personal relationships and the pursuit of fame and fortune with cases like "Personal Relationships Trump the Law" and "Competition in the World of Fame and Fortune." These unspoken rules not only influence people's daily behavior but also profoundly affect the cultural psychology of society.
Conclusion#
Through a deep analysis of the unspoken rules, Wu Si not only reveals the true face of Chinese history but also provides readers with a fresh perspective to understand Chinese society. Although the unspoken rules are hidden beneath the formal rules, they truly influence the operation of society and people's behavior. By reading this book, readers can better understand the complexity of Chinese history and society and better cope with various challenges in real life.
The Unspoken Rules (Revised Edition): The Real Game in Chinese History is not only a historical work but also a classic in sociology. Wu Si, through vivid cases and in-depth analysis, reveals the continuous influence of unspoken rules in history and modern society. This book is worth reading not only for history enthusiasts but also for anyone who cares about social development.