The Unsettling Normality: When the Expected Becomes the Unexpected
The Chinese internetis abuzz with a phrase: 正常的事情”太久不发生，就变得不正常了 (zhèngcháng de shìqing tài jiǔ bù fāshēng, jiù biàn de bù zhèngcháng le), which translates to When normal things don’t happen for too long, they become abnormal. This seemingly simple statement,popularized by the influential tech media platform 36氪 (36Kr), reflects a growing unease among the Chinese public about the lack of expected developments and the potential implications for the future.
The phrase captures a sense ofdisorientation, a feeling that the familiar rhythms of life have been disrupted. It speaks to the anxieties of a society that has grown accustomed to rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and social progress. When these familiar markers of progress seem to stall, a sense of unease sets in.
This sentiment is not entirely unfounded. China’s economy, once a powerhouse of global growth, has been experiencing a slowdown in recent years. The once-unstoppable rise of tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent has been tempered by regulatory scrutiny and a shift in government priorities. Social mobility, once a defining characteristic of Chinese society, is facing increasing challenges as the gap between rich and poor widens.
The phrase 正常的事情”太久不发生，就变得不正常了 resonates with these anxieties. It highlights the psychological impact of a perceived stagnation, where the absence ofexpected progress becomes a source of concern. This sentiment is not unique to China. Similar anxieties about economic stagnation and social change are being felt across the globe, particularly in developed economies grappling with the challenges of globalization and technological disruption.
However, the Chinese context adds a layer of complexity. The country’s authoritarian politicalsystem, with its emphasis on stability and control, creates a unique dynamic. While the government has successfully maintained social order and economic growth for decades, any perceived deviation from this trajectory can trigger anxieties about the future.
The phrase 正常的事情”太久不发生，就变得不正常了 can be interpretedas a subtle critique of the government’s handling of the economy and social issues. It suggests that the public is becoming increasingly aware of the challenges facing the country and is demanding action.
The phrase also highlights the evolving relationship between the Chinese public and the government. While the government still enjoys significant public support, thereis a growing expectation for transparency and accountability. The public is no longer content with simply accepting the government’s narrative. They are actively seeking information, engaging in critical thinking, and demanding solutions to the challenges they face.
The phrase 正常的事情”太久不发生，就变得不正常了 is apowerful reminder that the concept of normal is constantly evolving. What was once considered normal may no longer be so, and the absence of expected progress can create a sense of unease and uncertainty. In China, this sentiment reflects a growing awareness of the challenges facing the country and a demand for greater transparency and accountability fromthe government.
It remains to be seen how the Chinese government will respond to this growing sense of unease. However, the widespread use of the phrase 正常的事情”太久不发生，就变得不正常了 is a clear indication that the public is paying attention and demanding action. This shift inpublic sentiment could have significant implications for China’s future.
Views: 0