This article analyzes the pervasive phenomenon of "inner-卷" (internal competition) sweeping across various sectors in China. It argues that a relentless focus on imitation, rather than innovation, is the root cause. The author contends that this approach, while seemingly cost-effective, ultimately hinders genuine progress and prevents China from achieving its full potential in the global marketplace. The article draws parallels between the current situation and the historical pattern of rapid technological advancement, highlighting the need for a fundamental shift in mindset and approach.
The Chinese internet, once a beacon of hope for innovation, now finds itself struggling to produce truly groundbreaking products. While the technology has evolved rapidly, the level of original innovation has not kept pace. The ubiquitous phenomenon of "inner-卷," where fierce competition stifles progress, is not a new issue, but the reasons behind it are deeply rooted in the current cultural and economic landscape.
The article points to a critical flaw in the current approach: a tendency to prioritize imitation over originality. Instead of developing unique products and services, Chinese businesses often focus on replicating successful models from abroad. The example of social media platforms, from Musical.ly (now TikTok) to nascent AI models, illustrates this pattern. The allure of “0-yuan acquisition” – the ease of copying existing models – often outweighs the effort of true innovation.
This "copy-and-paste" approach, while seemingly efficient in the short term, ultimately leads to a vicious cycle. The market becomes saturated with near-identical products, driving prices down and eroding profitability. This is not simply a matter of economic efficiency; it reflects a wider cultural issue. The article suggests that a deep-seated lack of confidence in the ability to create truly original products fuels this reliance on imitation.
The author argues that the mindset of waiting for "open-source" solutions and expecting rapid replication of foreign successes is detrimental. This approach ignores the intricate interplay of cultural context, technological nuances, and market demands that necessitate unique solutions.
The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift. China must move beyond the current model of imitation and embrace a culture of innovation. This requires fostering an environment that encourages risk-taking, intellectual property protection, and long-term investment in research and development. Only then can China truly realize its potential as a global leader in technological innovation and economic growth. The path to breaking free from the cycle of "inner-卷" lies not in copying others, but in creating something truly unique and valuable.
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