In the land of China, the wine table culture has a long history, it is not only a medium of social interaction, but also a stage of power. On this special occasion, people convey the delicate relationship of emotion, interest and power through the exchange of wine. This article will delve into the power play and obedience test behind the Chinese wine table, revealing the underlying logic behind this cultural phenomenon.
1. The depiction of a Chinese-style wine table
In China, the wine table is an important place to socialize. Whether it is a business banquet, a gathering of family and friends, or a red and white wedding event, the wine table is an indispensable part. Although the rules of the wine table vary from place to place, they all follow certain rules and procedures. On these occasions, people are divided into different roles: the strong and the weak, the drinker and the persuaded. The strong are often the authority figures at the wine table, and they show their authority and control by forcing people to drink; The weak, on the other hand, can only confess their loyalty and obedience through masochistic active drinking.
2. Obedience Test: Game of Thrones at the Wine Table
The Obedience Test is one of the most common power games at the wine table. Persuaders often use various means to force the persuaded person to drink as a way to test the other party's obedience. Such tests can be both a direct threat and a clever inducement. For example, "If you don't drink, you're not a friend enough" is a typical threatening persuasion, the implication is that if you drink, you are a friend, and if you don't, you are not. And "this glass is dry, this contract is yours" is a kind of lure persuasion, implying that if you don't drink, you will lose some kind of opportunity or benefit.
In these power plays, the persuaded are often faced with difficult choices: on the one hand, they are unwilling to harm their bodies and dignity; On the other hand, they have to consider the relationship with the persuader and the possible consequences. In such a situation, many people will choose to succumb to power and drink alcohol in exchange for temporary peace and benefits. However, this submission often comes at the expense of one's own health and dignity.
It's important to note that these power games don't exist in isolation. They are often intertwined with other elements at the wine table to form a complex social scene. For example, the seating arrangement at the wine table, the choice of dishes, the order of toasting, etc., can all become chips and tools in power games. In these details, people are constantly engaged in power contests and games, trying to gain more benefits and respect at the wine table.
3. Sincerity test: delivery of collateral in relationship building
In addition to the obedience test, the sincerity test is also a common cultural phenomenon at the wine table. In this test, the counselor asks the person to show enough sincerity to demonstrate that he or she values and is committed to the relationship. And this kind of sincerity is often achieved through drinking. Specifically, the persuaded person needs to let go of his guard and be dignified, and show his ugliness to the persuader and bystanders as collateral to deliver to the other party. The delivery of this collateral is not only a humiliation and injury to oneself, but also a trust and commitment to the relationship.
The roles of spectators and witnesses are also very important in this process. Their presence not only adds to the openness and ceremonial sense of the sincerity test, but also provides the necessary oversight and proof for the delivery of the collateral. The test of sincerity is only over when the persuaded person successfully completes the delivery of the collateral in full view. And the results of this test will have a direct impact on the establishment and development of the relationship between the two parties.
However, this sincerity test is not a healthy way to build relationships. It is built on humiliation and harm to others, and not only does it fail to truly build a relationship of equality and respect, but it can also have long-term negative effects on the mental and physical health of both parties. Therefore, we should abandon this unhealthy phenomenon of drinking table culture and advocate a more civilized and healthy way of socializing.
Fourth, the roots and influence of Chinese-style wine table culture
The formation of Chinese-style wine table culture has deep historical roots and social background. In traditional Chinese culture, wine has always been regarded as an important social medium and a tool for emotional expression. However, with the changes and development of society, the drinking table culture has gradually evolved into a stage of power play and obedience tests. The emergence of this phenomenon is closely related to China's social structure and interpersonal relationship patterns.
In a social structure with a high concentration of power, the strong tend to assert their position and interests by controlling the weak. The wine table became a great place to display power and control. By forcing people to drink and persuading them to get drunk, the strong can easily control the body and mind of the weak, thus further consolidating their authority. This power play is not only present in officialdom and business, but also permeates every aspect of everyday life.
The Chinese wine table culture has had a profound impact on both individuals and society. First of all, it compromises the physical health and dignity of the individual. Long-term alcohol immersion can cause serious damage to people's bodies and minds. Second, it distorts interpersonal relationships and trust mechanisms. Relationships built at the wine table often lack a real and lasting foundation, which can easily lead to interpersonal alienation and a lack of trust. Finally, it hinders the progress and development of society. Under the shadow of the wine table culture, people's creativity and innovative spirit are inhibited, and social fairness and justice are also challenged.
V. Conclusions and prospects
Through the in-depth understanding of Chinese wine table culture, we can clearly see the logic behind the power game and obedience test. This cultural phenomenon not only harms the interests and dignity of individuals, but also hinders the progress and development of society. Therefore, we must deeply reflect and criticize it, and actively seek ways to improve and change.
Looking to the future, we look forward to the emergence of a healthier, more civilized and rational wine table culture. In this new culture, people are no longer drinking to show their power and control, but to build real relationships through sincere, equal, and respectful communication. At the same time, we also hope that the society can strengthen the guidance and supervision of the wine table culture, and promote its development in a healthier and more civilized direction.