Tiān dào (天道, Heaven's Will)
1. Pronunciation
Pinyin: Tiān dào
English translation: Tian Dao (Heaven’s Will)
2. Literal Meaning
Tian (天): Typically
refers to the sky, but can also extend to mean "divine existence" or
"the supreme law."
Dao (道): In Daoist
philosophy, refers to the fundamental principle of the universe's operation,
similar to "the Way of all things" or "natural law."
3. Overview
Tian Dao is a concept with philosophical,
religious, and cosmological significance, primarily associated with
Daoism.
It represents the natural law and ultimate
order of the universe, which can be both an intangible natural way and can be
anthropomorphized as an entity with will.
4. Philosophical Level of Tian Dao
In Daoist philosophy (Daoism, particularly
Laozi and Zhuangzi), Tian Dao refers to the natural law of the universe.
It is a spontaneously operating natural
order that does not change according to human will.
① Dao (道): The core
concept of Daoism, referring to the fundamental law of the operation of all
things.
② Natural Law: Similar to the "laws of
nature" in physics, such as gravity and the conservation of mass, but with
an emphasis on the harmony between humans and nature.
③ Wu Wei (无为,
Effortless Action): Aligning with Tian Dao without forcefully intervening,
letting things run according to their natural laws.
5. Tian Dao in Daoist Belief
① The Supreme Law of the Cosmos: Beyond
human understanding, similar to the Western concept of "Divine Will"
or "God’s Will."
② Mystical Force: Daoist belief holds that
Tian Dao can influence human fate, controlled by immortals, celestial beings,
or cosmic forces.
③ Reincarnation and Karma: In some Daoist
belief systems, Tian Dao resembles the Buddhist concept of "Karma,"
where good and evil are repaid, and the universe maintains its own
balance.
6. Tian Dao in Xianxia and Fantasy Novels
In modern Xianxia (Chinese Immortal
Cultivation) and fantasy literature, Tian Dao is typically:
① Cosmic Law: The ultimate force governing
the operation of the world, rules that practitioners must follow.
② Anthropomorphized Existence: In some
settings, Tian Dao is personified as a conscious entity that decides the fate
of humans.
③ defy the will of heaven: In many Xianxia
systems, mortals seek to "defy the will of heaven" (逆天改命, to challenge the order of Tian Dao) in an attempt to alter their
fate.
Xian Xia (仙侠, Xiān xiá)
1. Pronunciation
Pinyin: Xiān xiá
English Translation: Xian Xia
2. Literal Meaning
Xian (仙): Refers to "immortals" or "transcendent beings."
Xia (侠): Refers to "heroes who uphold justice," embodying the spirit of Wuxia (武侠, Wu xia).
Overall Translation: Xian Xia, meaning "the combination of immortals and chivalry," usually refers to cultural products that blend elements of cultivation (修仙, Xiu xian) and martial heroism (武侠, Wu xia).
3. Xian (仙, The Immortal)
① Definition
“Xian” refers to beings who have attained enlightenment, achieved immortality, and transcended the mortal world.
In Daoist Philosophy, Religious Daoism , and ancient mythology, "Xian" represents the realm of transcendence and is an imagined ultimate form of life in Chinese culture.
Xian is not the same as a typical god (神, Shen).
Instead of being born divine or granted divinity by a creator, it emphasizes a process of self-cultivation (修行, Xiu xing), spiritual enlightenment (悟道, Wu dao), and ultimately achieving Dao (得道, De dao) — the ultimate harmony with the universe and transcendence beyond mortality.
While some Xian are said to be born with innate divinity, it is the process of cultivation that defines the core of what it means to become Xian in most traditions.
② The Concept of "Xian" in Daoist Philosophy
Daoism (道家, Dao jīa) believes that "Xian" are beings who transcend the mundane by aligning with Tian Dao (天道, The Way of Heaven).
Daoist philosophy emphasizes Dao (道,), the ultimate law governing the universe.
Becoming an immortal (仙, Xian) means comprehending and embodying Dao (道, Dao), ultimately reaching a state of Wu Wei (无为) — effortless alignment with the natural order — and attaining true freedom from worldly constraints (逍遥自在, xiao yao zi zai).
Xian (仙) is not merely about physical survival, but about transcending the cycle of life and death, achieving an existence beyond mortality.
③ The Concept of "Xian" in Religious Daoism
Religious Daoism (道教, Dao jiao) integrated elements of Daoist philosophy and ancient Chinese religious traditions, developing a structured belief system where immortality (仙, Xian) became an attainable state through spiritual cultivation, divine practices, and celestial intervention.
Attaining Dao & Ascension (得道飞升, De dao fei sheng):
In Daoist thought, immortals are transcendent beings who achieve enlightenment and divine status through Daoist cultivation (道法, Dao fa), internal alchemy (内丹, Nei dan), and spiritual refinement (修心悟道, Xiu xin wu dao).
Depending on the tradition, immortality may manifest in different ways:
Shi jie (尸解, Corpse Liberation): The practitioner’s physical body is left behind while their spirit ascends, achieving immortality.
Yu hua (羽化, Ascension into Immortality): The transformation of the mortal body into an immortal form, often symbolized by the lightness of feathers.
Deng zhen (登真, Ascending to the Realm of the True Immortals): Achieving the highest state of existence by fully integrating with Dao and transcending mortality.
Some Daoist traditions emphasize the idea of attaining immortality while remaining in the mortal realm (在世修行, Zai shi xiu xing), achieving harmony between humanity and Dao ( 天人合一, Tian ren he yi), and embodying the Daoist way through worldly actions (人间行道, Ren jian xing dao), rather than simply seeking ascension to celestial realms.
Paths to Immortality:
Daoist Cultivation: Advancing through meditation, energy refinement, and mastery of Daoist principles.
Daoist Elixirs: Some Daoist traditions explored alchemical elixirs to prolong life, though many scriptures caution against overreliance on external substances.
Virtuous Deeds: Certain Daoist sects emphasize morality and good deeds as part of spiritual refinement, though this alone is rarely considered sufficient for attaining immortality.
Conclusion:
The Daoist concept of immortals (仙, Xian) and the various paths to immortality have deeply influenced the setting and structure of Xianxia (仙侠,) literature.
④ "Gods" vs. "Immortals"
Immortals (仙, Xian): Typically refer to beings who have transcended mortality and achieved eternal life through self-cultivation and enlightenment.
Gods (神, Shen): Usually refer to entities that inherently possess divine attributes or are venerated as deities for various reasons.
For example:
Heavenly deities (天神, Tian shen):
Such as the Jade Emperor (玉皇大帝, Yu Huang Da di).
Nature spirits (自然神灵, Zi ran shen ling):
Such as mountain gods (山神, Shan shen) and river gods (河神, He shen).
Deified historical figures (因功成神, Yin gong cheng shen):
Such as Guan Yu (关羽), who was venerated due to his legendary deeds.
The distinction between gods and immortals is often blurred.
Some mythological figures can be considered both.
For instance, Daoism (道教, Dao jiao) has a pantheon of divine immortals (神仙, Shen xian), where certain deities are simultaneously regarded as both gods and immortals.
Throughout history, there have been varied perspectives regarding their status:
Some believe that gods hold a higher status than immortals because they govern cosmic laws, oversee the world, and receive the worship of all beings.
Others argue that immortals hold a superior status because they attain transcendence through their own cultivation, breaking free from worldly constraints and the cycle of life and death.
In most Xianxia (仙侠) novels, immortals are generally depicted as superior to gods.
Immortals are portrayed as true transcendents, while gods are often associated with mortal realms and belief systems, leading some immortals to disdain the idea of becoming gods.
4. Xia (侠, The Chivalrous Hero)
① Definition
Xia (侠) refers to chivalrous heroes who follow their own moral code, sometimes defying laws or conventions in pursuit of personal ideals.
While they may rob the rich to help the poor or challenge oppression, their actions are often driven by Code of Honor (义气, Yi qi) rather than a universal sense of justice.
In Chinese culture, Xia(侠) is not merely an identity but a spiritual and cultural ideal that emphasizes:
A. Bravery and fearlessness (勇敢无畏, Yong gan wu wei)
B. Mutual loyalty bound by honor and brotherhood (义气相守, Yi qi xiang shou)
C. Upholding personal convictions (坚守信念, Jian shou xin nian)
D. Helping the weak and resisting tyranny (匡扶弱小, Kuang fu ruo xiao)
E. A strong sense of individuality and defiance (独行不羁, Du xing bu ji)
The concept of Xia (侠) originates from Ancient Youxia (游侠), wandering warriors who emerged during the Warring States period (战国, Zhan guo, 475–221 BCE).
Over time, this idea evolved into the central theme of Wuxia (武侠) literature, becoming a deeply influential cultural archetype.
② Origins of Xia
Ancient Youxia (游侠)
Youxia (游侠) were a group of individuals who existed as early as the Warring States period of China (476–221 BCE).
Unlike government officials or military personnel, youxia operated outside official structures, relying on their martial prowess (武艺, Wu yi) and personal influence to move through society.
They upheld values such as:
Loyalty & Brotherhood (义气, Yi qi) – A willingness to sacrifice themselves for friends, sworn bonds, or personal honor.
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Freedom of Action (行动自由, Xing dong zi you) – Unbound by laws, sometimes even resisting tyranny.
Martial Prowess (擅长武艺, Shan chang wu yi) – Renowned for their swordsmanship, assassination skills, and combat abilities.
Representative Figure: Jing Ke (荆轲, ? – 227 BCE)
One of the most famous youxia in history, Jing Ke (荆轲) became legendary for his attempted assassination of the King of Qin (刺杀秦王).
Jing Ke's Assassination Attempt on the King of Qin
Historical Background:
During the late Warring States period, the state of Qin (秦), under the rule of Ying Zheng (嬴政) (Qin Shi Huang, 秦始皇), was rapidly expanding and overwhelming the six rival states.
To prevent his homeland from being conquered, Prince Dan, the Crown Prince of Yan(太子丹) devised a plan to assassinate the King of Qin and sent Jing Ke to carry out the mission.
The Assassination Attempt:
A.Jing Ke traveled to Qin, bringing the severed head of Fan Wuqi (樊於期), a defected Qin general, and a map of Yan (燕国献图) as a deceptive tribute.
B. As the map was unrolled, a hidden dagger was revealed.
C. Jing Ke seized the dagger and attempted to stab Ying Zheng.
D. However, the King of Qin dodged the attack and fought back, leading to Jing Ke’s ultimate failure.
E. Jing Ke was killed by palace guards, and the state of Yan fell to Qin not long after.
Jing Ke’s Legacy and the Spirit of Xia(侠)
Although Jing Ke failed, his fearless attempt to sacrifice himself for his convictions (信念, Xin nian) became one of the most enduring symbols of Xia (侠) in Chinese culture.
Sacrificing one's life for honor and duty (舍生取义, She sheng qu yi).
Defying power with courage (不畏强权, Bu wei qiang quan)
His actions inspired generations of loyal and righteous warriors (忠义之士, Zhong yi zhi shi) in Chinese history and became a foundational archetype for wandering swordsmen (游侠, You xia) and chivalrous heroes (侠士, Xia shi) in Wuxia (武侠) literature.
Jing Ke's story embodies the core essence of Xia—bravery, honor, and unwavering determination to stay true to one's convictions (坚守信念, Jian shou xin nian), regardless of the cost.
③ Wuxia Literature (武侠小说)
Wuxia (武侠) is a combination of "Wu" (武, martial prowess) and "Xia" (侠, chivalry), representing a world where individuals wield martial arts to uphold their own moral codes.
Modern Wuxia literature has expanded the concept of Xia (侠) beyond the historical Youxia (游侠, wandering swordsmen), enriching its characters with complex personalities, moral dilemmas, and philosophical depth.
Representative Authors & Characters:
Jin Yong (金庸)
The most influential Wuxia novelist, Jin Yong defined the Jianghu (江湖, Jiang hu, martial world) system and shaped the most iconic depictions of Xia (侠).
Guo Jing (郭靖) — The Selfless Hero (《射雕英雄传》, The Legend of the Condor Heroes)
- The true Xiá serves the people and the nation (侠之大者，为国为民).
- Guo Jing embodies the ultimate ideal of Wuxia, where personal honor transcends self-interest, becoming a guardian of the nation and its people.
- Though not innately gifted, he rises through perseverance and unwavering righteousness to become a legendary hero.
Yang Guo (杨过) — The Rebellious Wanderer (《神雕侠侣》, The Return of the Condor Heroes)
- Yang Guo represents the defiant and free-spirited Xia, unbound by tradition.
- Torn between love, revenge, and freedom, his journey is one of self-discovery, culminating in his transformation into the revered "Condor Hero" (神雕大侠, Shen diao da xia).
Qiao Feng (乔峰) — The Tragic Warrior (《天龙八部》, Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils)
- A tragic figure manipulated by fate, Qiao Feng exemplifies the "cursed hero" whose life is shaped by misunderstandings and betrayal.
- His fate illustrates that 'Xia yi' (侠义) is not merely about personal glory, but also about staying true to one's convictions.
④ The Core Essence of Wuxia
Wuxia is not merely about combat; at its heart, it embodies moral principles and personal codes of honor.
In Wuxia literature, the depiction of 'Xia' typically encompasses the following three spiritual levels:
A. The Greater Hero — Serving the Nation and Its People (侠之大者，为国为民)
- Guo Jing's philosophy: "The true Xia serves the people and the nation."
- A true hero is not only a swordsman of the Jianghu, but also a protector of the nation and its people.
- In times of national crisis, they are willing to step forward and fight for the welfare of the people.
B. Personal Growth — Overcoming Oneself
- A true hero often starts as an ordinary person and grows into an extraordinary one.
- They face hardships, break through limits in repeated challenges, and achieve self-transcendence.
- Yang Guo went from an unrecognized orphan to becoming a legendary hero known throughout the world.
C. Loyalty, Honor, and the Burden of Jianghu
- Wuxia heroes navigate the intricate conflicts of the Jianghu (江湖,Jiang hu, martial world)—a realm of rivalries, vendettas, and alliances.
- They are caught in personal struggles, family feuds, and ethical dilemmas, yet remain steadfast in their convictions and moral codes.
Conclusion:
Xia, is the romantic spirit of heroism in Chinese culture.
It originated from ancient Youxia, evolved in Wuxia literature, and eventually became an integral part of the 'Xianxia' world.
The spirit of Xiá is not only about martial prowess, but the combination of morality, growth, and responsibility.
5. The Concept of Xianxia (仙侠, Immortal Heroes Fantasy)
Xianxia (仙侠) is a literary and cultural genre that blends elements of Xian (仙, Immortals) and Xia (侠, Chivalrous Heroes).
It originated from Chinese mythology, Taoist beliefs, and Wuxia novels, later evolving into an independent fantasy genre through modern online literature .
Core Characteristics:
① Rooted in Wuxia Spirit
Xianxia stories retain the chivalrous ideals of Wuxia while incorporating supernatural elements:
- Emphasizing personal growth , the protagonist typically evolves from an ordinary person into an unparalleled powerhouse.
- Focusing on the conflicts between various factions in the Jianghu, sometimes involving the battle between good and evil among heroes, and at other times, the struggle for interests and ideological confrontations between major factions.
- Revenge, Love, and Loyalty (恩怨情仇): Master-disciple bonds, feuds between sects, national conflicts, and romantic entanglements frequently drive the narrative.
② Centered Around a Cultivation System
A structured system of cultivation defines Xianxia, emphasizing progression, transcendence, and immortality:
- Realm Advancement : Cultivators undergo breakthroughs to ascend to higher realms.
- Ascension & Immortality: The ultimate goal is often escaping mortality or reaching divine status.
- Techniques & Practices: Characters refine their power through spiritual energy, alchemy, sword control , talisman arts , and other mystical methods.
③ Factions & Power Struggles
The world of Xianxia is divided into various transcendent factions, each with distinct philosophies:
- Immortal Dao (仙道, Xian dao): The pursuit of longevity, enlightenment, and transcendence.
- Demonic Dao (魔道, Mo dao): A path of defiance, often seeking power above all, challenging the heavens and fate.
- Monster Dao (妖道, Yao dao): The cultivation system of non-human entities, including spirits, demons, and mystical beasts.
These factional conflicts serve as the foundation for many Xianxia narratives, shaping epic battles and ideological struggles.
④ Oriental Fantasy Aesthetics
Xianxia is deeply rooted in Eastern fantasy aesthetics, featuring:
- Magic Artifacts (法宝, Fa bao) & Talisman Arts (符篆, Fu zhou): Spiritual artifacts and talisman arts wielded for combat, protection, and cultivation.
- Swordsmanship (剑术, Jian shu) & Array Formations (阵法, Zhen fa): Mastery of sword techniques and the profound art of formation arrays.
- A vast and layered cosmos: spanning mortal empires, celestial realms, and the boundless void beyond.
This unique fantasy style differentiates Xianxia from Western fantasy, blending Daoist philosophy, martial arts, and supernatural elements.
Conclusion:
Xianxia (仙侠) is a unique genre of Eastern Fantasy Literature that combines the chivalrous spirit of Wuxia (武侠) with the transcendent cultivation system of Cultivation (修仙, Xiu Xian).
It creates a world full of fantastical elements, where characters can break through the limits of mortality through cultivation, seeking immortality, ascension, or control over the laws of the universe.
This type of work not only showcases the magnificent aesthetics of Eastern fantasy but also carries philosophical reflections on chivalry, fate, transcendence, and the laws of the universe in Chinese culture.
6. The "Xian Dao(仙道)" Faction in This Book
※ This plot will appear in later chapters.
In the setting of this book, the faction is named "Xian Dao" (仙道), rather than "Xian Xia" (仙侠).
This naming choice involves several considerations, including the worldview, cultivation system, and cultural core.
Below is a detailed explanation of this issue.
Why does the protagonist use "Xian Dao" rather than "Xian Xia"?
The core of this question lies in the fundamental difference between "Xian Dao" (仙道) and "Xian Xia" (仙侠).
① "Xian Dao" represents: A Transcendent Knowledge System
Xian Dao refers to a higher-dimensional system encompassing wisdom, cultivation, and the laws of the universe. It is a systematized knowledge framework, not just an individual behavior model.
In the worldview of this book, the pursuit of transcendence is not solely for increasing strength, but also for exploring the transcendent world.
② "Xian Xia" represents: The Wuxia Spirit
"Xian Xia" emphasizes individual heroism, rivers and lakes feuds , and chivalric morality. At its core, it still follows the structure of Wuxia novels but adds cultivation elements.
The focus of the two is completely different. Therefore, in the setting of this book, the faction is named "Xian Dao" instead of "Xian Xia".
③. "Xia" is not enough to represent the whole faction; "Xian" and "Dao" are more fitting.
"Xia" represents individual actions, emphasizing personal heroism rather than a complete cultivation system.
The combination of "Xian" (仙) and "Dao" (道) encompasses a larger concept, covering aspects such as cultivation methods, knowledge systems, and the exploration of universal laws.
④ "Xia" is not unimportant; the Wuxia spirit is still significant.
Although "Xian Dao" replaces "Xian Xia" as the name of the faction, it does not mean "Xia" is unimportant.
In the worldview of this book, 'Xia' still occupies an important position.
In the subsequent plot, these heroes will gradually appear, intersecting with the protagonist and together, creating an epic story.
Conclusion:
I hope to create a world that truly belongs to "Xia"—
A stage that still carries the spirit of chivalry, the entanglements of revenge and love, and a righteous, unyielding spirit.
Although this is a path full of challenges, and I cannot predict whether I will succeed, I am willing to try.
My Views on Certain Recent Xianxia Novels
Xianxia novels initially inherited the Wuxia Spirit.
In these stories, "Xia" represents chivalry and justice (行侠仗义), emphasizing Jianghu morality (江湖道义) and personal beliefs (个人信念).
Meanwhile, "Xian" (仙) symbolizes transcendence and enlightenment, the pursuit of a state where one is in harmony with nature, free from worldly constraints.
However, many modern Xianxia works have gradually strayed from these two core spirits.
In many Xianxia novels (especially in the cultivation (修真) and fantasy (玄幻) genres), there is an extreme form of Social Darwinism, emphasizing Might Makes Right (强者为尊), where the philosophy is: "You either become the hunter or the prey."
① The Spirit of "Xia" is Erased
Justice and personal beliefs have been gradually weakened. The law of the jungle has become the mainstream, even regarded as a natural honor.
Many protagonists are depicted as cold-blooded characters with a mentality of "Those who follow me prosper; those who oppose me die." They follow the law of the jungle, prioritizing strength over morality.
Cultivation should be a process of enlightenment and the pursuit of immortality.
However, in many novels, cultivators resemble resource-hungry raiders instead.
Their cultivation has turned into a ruthless harvesting process, where resources are seized in any way possible, turning the path to immortality from spiritual enlightenment into a naked competition.
Wuxia heroes are often depicted as holding firm to their personal beliefs, while many Xianxia protagonists focus primarily on becoming stronger.
To achieve this goal, they justify their evil actions under various pretenses, which creates a sense of hypocrisy that I find extremely uncomfortable.
② The "Freedom(逍遥, Xiao yao)" of Xiān is Also Erased
In my view, Xiān should represent beings who pursue freedom (逍遥, Xiao yao), transcending worldly struggles, unbound by power, grudges, or desires, and wandering the world with a carefree and liberated state of mind.
However, in recent years, many Xianxia novels have completely distorted the essence of "Xian", turning cultivation into a brutal competition rather than a spiritual elevation.
Cultivators become immersed in intrigue, seeing fellow practitioners as prey, and even those close to them—
—masters, disciples, parents, siblings, lovers, and children—
—are viewed merely as stepping stones toward higher realms.
The Dao (道) becomes an excuse, mental state (心境,Xin jing) becomes a joke, and any action can be justified if it leads to strength.
These characters are constantly plotting, either seeking to plunder or guarding against being backstabbed.
Either on a killing spree or wiping out entire families, showing no mercy, not even to infants.
Ironically, some characters have lived for hundreds or even thousands of years, yet their wisdom and behavior resemble that of earthly clowns.
Their Dao is tainted with blood, Their hearts have been consumed by ambition and desire.
Their wisdom has decayed amidst endless killing and scheming.
In the end, this group of Xian (仙) lives an existence more exhausting than mine as a mere mortal.
This makes me wonder: does being such a Xian (仙) still hold any meaning?
③ A world without Xian (仙) or Xia (侠)
If wuxia novels once shaped an ideal of "a Xia (侠) using martial arts to defy authority, uphold justice, and stick to personal beliefs,"
then many modern Xianxia (仙侠) novels have evolved into an extreme form of Darwinism, "survival of the fittest, where the weak are preyed upon by the strong."
This shift certainly caters to the tastes of the contemporary market, making Xianxia works more thrilling and conflict-driven,
but it has quietly lost its original cultural core—
the Xia (侠) no longer practices righteousness, and the Xian (仙) no longer seeks carefree freedom.
In the end, the Xianxia world has become a hell for the weak and a paradise for the strong,
no longer that world filled with ideals and romance.
I believe this is truly a pity, and such a world is not one I would enjoy.
④ Why do I hold a critical attitude towards this?
Why do I hold a critical attitude towards this?
What does it have to do with me?
If I don’t like it, I can just not watch it. Who’s forcing me?
But the issue is not about personal preferences, but about the values they convey.
It’s the values being transmitted—that is the fundamental reason I criticize it.
The vast majority of people in the real world, including myself—are actually the weak.
In such a world, we rely on rules, rely on order, and rely on those principles that maintain social balance, such as fairness, justice, morality, and the spirit of contracts.
Even though reality is not always fair, it is these values that support the functioning of society and uphold the bottom line between people.
They are not perfect, but they still protect each and every one of us.
Democracy is the universal value of the 21st century.
Even totalitarian regimes must, in name, acknowledge its legitimacy.
For example, North Korea’s full name is still—the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Why?
—Because they know the concept of democracy has deeply penetrated people’s hearts, and even if it’s just formalism, it must be maintained.
But the transformation of Xianxia (仙侠) novels is subverting this.
It indoctrinates readers with a logic—weak people have no right to talk about fairness; justice is just a game for the strong.
When "the strong are supreme" becomes the only truth, when "survival of the fittest" becomes the only belief, all rules will lose their meaning, and the world will devolve into a battlefield of the strong preying on the weak.
The problem is, if the world really works this way, you and I will be the ones devoured, because we are the weak.
Fairness, justice, freedom, order, rule of law, and peace are not to be taken for granted, but are the result of countless people giving their lives for them.
It is because some have constantly pursued these values in the past that we can enjoy the prosperity of the 21st century.
—You and I can sit here writing novels and reading novels, rather than having everything stripped away from us, barely clothed, starving, crawling in the dust like pigs and dogs!
What would our world be like if it weren’t for those who fought for fairness, justice, and freedom?
The strong are supreme, and the weak can only live at the mercy of the strong.
In terms of ideology, we can only accept indoctrination, and thinking itself is forbidden;
psychologically, we must learn to obey, for disobedience equals death;
our fate has already been decided, and from birth, we are destined to be toys in the hands of some strong person.
Even in death, we cannot inconvenience those important figures, nor cause them any discomfort.
We won’t even have the right to say, "If you don’t like it, don’t watch it," because the truly weak don’t even have the right to say "no."
If we abandon these ideals and let the logic of "survival of the fittest" become a societal consensus, humanity could regress to the most barbaric era.
Perhaps some would say, "It’s just a novel, why take it so seriously?"
But I believe it’s necessary to take it seriously.
Novels, especially online novels, attract a large number of young readers.
If they accept such extreme values from an early age and take them as "truths" about the real world, what will their worldview be like?
Will they grow to become extremists in the future?
Will they lose faith in true fairness and justice?
This is the fundamental reason I criticize "survival of the fittest" style novels.
I am not opposed to competition, and I acknowledge that inequality exists in real society, but I refuse to accept the jungle logic of "the strong should trample on the weak" becoming the mainstream narrative.
Because human society is more civilized than the jungle precisely because we no longer decide everything based on "who has the hardest fist," but instead use wisdom, rules, and morality to sustain the world’s operation.
