Shem's book is indeed a good read but what it reflects more than anything is a different system of norms as to how interpersonal relations are handled. In the West we tend to see things as either black or white. In Chinese society, life is more a series of gray. This means that many norms are more in flux than in the West.
Interesting, I would agree with that. On one level, Whitney's relationship with Wen's wife was about making money. But I think there was a genuine connection as well. Norms more in flux than in the West, like you say.
Thank you, interesting recap, though I think the interpretation that the state (or, more accurately, the party) has reasserted control means corruption will be less widespread is optimistic to say the least.
You've got a good point there. We shall see... I suppose we can probably estimate the amount of corruption from the sales of luxury vehicles, luxury watches and such.
There's also a question of whether greater state involvement in the economy will hinder growth to such an extent that fewer people get rich anyway.
I used to work for a Chinese state-owned company, and I think this book exposes what most Chinese won't say on the Chinese internet. If we say it, our speech will be eliminated.
If you liked this book I highly recommend reading "The Last Kings of Shanghai" (amazing) and "Red Carpet: Hollywood, China, and the Global Battle for Cultural Supremacy" (Good but not amazing)
Shem's book is indeed a good read but what it reflects more than anything is a different system of norms as to how interpersonal relations are handled. In the West we tend to see things as either black or white. In Chinese society, life is more a series of gray. This means that many norms are more in flux than in the West.
Interesting, I would agree with that. On one level, Whitney's relationship with Wen's wife was about making money. But I think there was a genuine connection as well. Norms more in flux than in the West, like you say.
Very interesting. Great work
Thanks Baz!
Thank you, interesting recap, though I think the interpretation that the state (or, more accurately, the party) has reasserted control means corruption will be less widespread is optimistic to say the least.
You've got a good point there. We shall see... I suppose we can probably estimate the amount of corruption from the sales of luxury vehicles, luxury watches and such.
There's also a question of whether greater state involvement in the economy will hinder growth to such an extent that fewer people get rich anyway.
I used to work for a Chinese state-owned company, and I think this book exposes what most Chinese won't say on the Chinese internet. If we say it, our speech will be eliminated.
Fascinating book and great review!
Thanks!
If you liked this book I highly recommend reading "The Last Kings of Shanghai" (amazing) and "Red Carpet: Hollywood, China, and the Global Battle for Cultural Supremacy" (Good but not amazing)
Love the Last Kings of Shanghai! https://twitter.com/Fritz844/status/1423644265012367366?s=20
I should take a look at the Hollywood book as well.
Thanks!
Great summary as well. He was the more 'interesting' of the 2 families but the Kadoorie family ended up much smarter (and wealthier).