Wisdom in Conduct, Ingenuity in Action: 66 Unforgettable Principles of Chinese Etiquette and Conduct

Author: Han Shi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: This book does not discuss moral issues or philosophical questions. We explore very common social problems—the wisdom and skills for survival, development, and success in social life. More specifically, it addresses the cunning and stratagems a person uses in dealing with others, handling affairs, speaking, and navigating social interactions. Since ancient times, stratagems have been called cunning and treachery when used by petty people, but wise strategies and grand strategies when used by noble individuals. Everyone has stratagems, and everyone uses them. However, some use them subtly, flawlessly, and unpredictably, manipulating opponents at will, resolving conflicts, dilemmas, and crises with ease, and are praised as outstanding masters and timeless strategists. Others use them in a crafty, manner, leading to failure, chaos, and being condemned as despicable villains. In reality, whether one uses stratagems or succeeds in doing so has nothing to do with morality. Morality only examines the motivation and purpose behind using stratagems. Stratagems are not guilty; they are reasonable. Therefore, use them freely. The 21st century is an era of wisdom and mutual success. In a society filled with contradictions, hypocrisy, deceit, and traps, are you going to remain resentful, frustrated, and worried, continuing to be a person without stratagems, or will you reflect, introspect, and examine yourself, optimistically accept reality, seek enlightenment, and become a person who uses stratagems? The choice is yours. We will repeat one more time: Stratagems have nothing to do with morality.