Macro Chinese History -- The Age of Decline Volume

Author: Sun Jiazhou et al
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-10-01
Features: Decline often emerges from prosperity, and sometimes it is even difficult to draw a clear boundary between the two. The decline following the peak of prosperity might be an inevitable part of history, as the causes of many declining periods are often nurtured within the prosperous times. In some historical periods, the establishment of stability after the turmoil of a dynasty's founding marks the beginning of its prosperity, which also serves as the starting point for exploring decline. After all, decline is distinct from chaos. It lacks the widespread warfare and turmoil seen in chaotic times and often includes reforms and revivals aimed at restoring the dynasty's authority. Although these reforms and revivals are often limited in scope, they generally alleviate the crisis of dynastic rule to some extent, delaying the onset of chaos. We have selected several historical periods as declining times for discussion, examining the future of dynasties, the fates of individuals, and summarizing the characteristics of decline and the reasons for its transformation. We hope to provide readers with a new macro perspective for thinking about history.