Introduction#
“The Unwritten Rules (Revised Edition): The Real Games in Chinese History” is a masterpiece by Wu Si, which reveals the unwritten rules in Chinese history and leads readers to a deeper understanding of the informal games hidden beneath the formal rules. With his unique perspective and vivid writing style, Wu Si uncovers how these unwritten rules have shaped various aspects 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 ministers, while unofficial history reveals those unknown secret stories. Wu Si points out in the book that unwritten rules are an important component of these unofficial histories. Although they are not formally recorded, they genuinely influence the operation of society and people's behavior.
Unwritten Rules in Officialdom#
The officialdom is the place where unwritten rules are most prevalent. Through cases like "New Officials Starting with Three Fires" and "Survival Rules in Officialdom," Wu Si demonstrates how officials maintain their positions through exchanges of interests and power balances. These unwritten rules not only affect the behavior of officials but also profoundly influence the entire ecology of the officialdom.
Unwritten Rules in the Judicial Field#
In the judicial field, unwritten rules are equally ubiquitous. Wu Si reveals the importance of social hierarchy and wealth in legal proceedings through cases like "No Punishment for the Noble" and "No Money, No Entry." These unwritten rules often lead to a deviation from the intended fairness of the law in practical operations.
Unwritten Rules in Economic Activities#
Economic activities are also filled with various unwritten rules. Wu Si showcases how merchants obtain benefits through unwritten rules with cases like "No Business Without Deceit" and "Visible Feet and Invisible Hands." These unwritten rules not only affect fair competition in the market but also have a profound impact on the economic development of society.
Unwritten Rules in Social Life#
In social life, unwritten rules are also everywhere. Wu Si reveals the importance of personal relationships and the pursuit of fame and fortune in social life through cases like "Personal Relationships Greater than the Law" and "Competition in the Fame and Fortune Field." These unwritten rules not only influence people's daily behavior but also profoundly affect the cultural psychology of society.
Conclusion#
Through an in-depth analysis of unwritten rules, Wu Si not only reveals the true face of Chinese history but also provides readers with a new perspective to understand Chinese society. Although unwritten rules are hidden beneath formal rules, they genuinely influence the operation of society and people's behavior. By reading this book, readers can better understand the complexity of Chinese history and society, as well as better cope with various challenges in real life.
“The Unwritten Rules (Revised Edition): The Real Games in Chinese History” is not only a historical work but also a classic in sociology. Through vivid cases and in-depth analysis, Wu Si reveals the lasting impact of unwritten rules in both historical and modern society. This book is worth reading not only for history enthusiasts but also for anyone concerned about social development.