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The Moral Code of Playing Dumb

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Ignorance is Bliss: The Chinese Art of Not Knowing

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Abstract

This chapter discusses how applying the wisdom of playing dumb for personal well-being, in interpersonal relationships, and as a tool for promoting the harmonious society is not unconditional. I address some critical voices that vent their reservation and indignation about an inappropriate use of its wisdom not only by individuals, but also by the state in keeping the people ignorant for its own legitimacy. I also discuss commonly put forward ‘moral guidelines’ that prevent the practice of playing dumb to become a slick and easy way for self-promotion and self-advancement to the harm of others and society, when there is a choice to do otherwise. Ultimately, it is argued that morally appropriate hutu-ism comes down to life-long moral self-cultivation.

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  1. Chinese Studies, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium

    Mieke Matthyssen

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Matthyssen, M. (2021). The Moral Code of Playing Dumb. In: Ignorance is Bliss: The Chinese Art of Not Knowing. Palgrave Studies in Indigenous Psychology. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-73902-7_7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-73902-7_7

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