This article, originally a casual online post, explores the surprising apathy surrounding the 2025 Chinese college entrance exam (高考). The author, after significant revisions, argues that this disinterest signifies a critical juncture in societal awareness. They posit that widespread disillusionment with the traditional system, fueled by the internet's democratization of information, is prompting a necessary societal evolution leading to political and systemic reform.
The 2025 college entrance exam, a cornerstone of the Chinese education system, has unexpectedly met with a degree of apathy that has caught the attention of many. This article delves into the possible reasons behind this surprising disinterest, arguing that it is not merely a fleeting trend but a symptom of a deeper, and potentially revolutionary, shift in societal perception.
The author, initially writing casually, found their post resonating deeply on the Chinese social media platform Zhihu. This prompted a significant investment of time and effort, with the piece evolving from a rudimentary three-point argument to a comprehensive nine-point analysis. The author freely offers this improved perspective, dedicating it to those seeking truth and acknowledging the crucial role of online support in enabling the article's re-emergence after a temporary removal.
A key argument presented is the growing awareness among the Chinese populace, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, of the realities of the social and political landscape. The author emphasizes that this increased awareness is not simply a new phenomenon, but rather a culmination of the proliferation of information through the internet. Crucially, the author argues that this heightened understanding, this "iteration of collective cognition," will inevitably trigger a necessary response from the political system: reform.
This thesis is bolstered by the example of a friend, "A," who, during their high school years, expressed a profound skepticism towards prestigious universities. This skepticism, the author argues, is not unique to "A" but rather reflects a wider disillusionment with the traditional system. The author contends that individuals are increasingly recognizing themselves as commodities in a market-driven society, where value is not solely determined by academic achievements or practical skills.
The article concludes by emphasizing that this apparent apathy towards the高考 is not a sign of societal decline, but rather a harbinger of a significant societal transformation. The author suggests that this transformation, driven by a more informed and critical citizenry, is a positive development, leading to a necessary evolution in the political and social structures of China. The article urges readers to embrace this potential shift, recognizing that the era of profound and necessary societal reform is approaching.
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