World: Chinese modern gang

Author: Zhang Cheng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Where there are people, there is a "jianghu." The intense social upheaval and the psychological disorientation of people during the transformative period of modern China led to the "jianghuization" or "gongfuhua" of modern China. Brushing away the dust of history reveals a world of "jianghu" in turmoil, filled with and strife. The beggar gang, the axe gang, the Qing Gang, the Paoguo, the secret society organizations, and the legendary "jianghu" bosses all make their appearances, resplendent in their roles. In our daily language, there is a string of terms that are not complimentary: the axe gang, the boss, to settle matters, Shanghai, the hall, and so on. Behind these terms lies a broader, encompassing noun: "jianghu"! Familiar names often turn out to be names that people are unfamiliar with when examined closely. So, what exactly is "jianghu"? Who is in "jianghu"? And what is within "jianghu"? This book will take you into the world of "jianghu" composed of modern gongfu organizations. "Gongfu" is a revolution in the making—it lacks the name of revolution but possesses the substance of revolution. While there are indeed scoundrels among the "gongfu" people, there are also many who are educated, thoughtful, ambitious, and brave. They uphold the virtue of "yi" and dare to act. The complexity of Chinese society is unfathomable, and reading the history of "gongfu" may help us rediscover those lost memories. Whether you are someone with little or extensive experience, someone who values loyalty or someone who does not, an admirer of traditional culture, or someone who wants to understand or does not want to understand Chinese society, this book is for you.