Li Zongwu's way of being is kind-hearted and extraordinary in learning.

Author: Li Zongwu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-04-25
Features: Have you noticed that throughout our lives, there are always two sets of behavior norms that are completely different yet paradoxically coexist, making it difficult to determine which is right or wrong? For example, there is "Never yield to power, nor be corrupted by wealth," yet also "A true man can bend and stretch as the situation demands," and "A brave man does not suffer immediate loss." There is "A gentleman is open and magnanimous, while a petty man is often sorrowful," yet also "Speak only a third of what you know about others, and do not reveal your whole heart at once." There is "The land will never move," yet also "Make the best of circumstances." There is "Benefit the world," yet also "Pursue self-improvement." And so on. This is not just true in terms of thought and cognition, but also in historical facts, where there exists an inscrutable phenomenon: good people do not live long, while bad people live in peace; loyal ministers are often executed, while treacherous ministers rise to power; honest people always face misfortune, while opportunists have an easy path. There are also common life phenomena like "good people doing bad things," "kind acts leading to bad consequences," and "the more you care about your reputation, the more you lose face." Moreover, great figures of all times, both noble and humble, can be both kind and ruthless. Qin Shi Huang, for instance, achieved great feats like "unifying China" and the "Great Wall," yet also committed brutal acts like "burning books and burying scholars" and mass killings. Emperor Wu of Han, while performing heroic deeds like attacking the Xiongnu and promoting peace among the people, was also infamous for trusting treacherous advisors and killing his wife and children. Turning through the 24 Histories, one can see such starkly contradictory behaviors in a single person. This leaves people deeply confused and prompts us to think about how we should determine our own behavior norms and how to view the actions of great figures. Li Zongwu's "Thick Black School" is not about teaching people to be shameless and heartless or to act like petty men, but rather has a deeper meaning—understanding human nature and being flexible. This book begins by studying Li Zongwu's "Thick Black" theory, drawing on rich historical anecdotes from ancient China to illustrate its points. Ultimately, it aims to help readers better understand and grasp human nature, shaping their ideal lives.