Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in consumer culture, highlighting how similar offerings in shopping and dining experiences lead to a lack of uniqueness and excitement in local markets [1][3][13]. Group 1: Examples of Involution - Many famous local streets in China have become homogenized, offering the same types of food and souvenirs, which detracts from the authentic local experience [1]. - Major shopping centers in China exhibit similar patterns, with identical luxury brands and products across different locations, making shopping a monotonous experience [2][3]. Group 2: Causes of Involution - Involution occurs because businesses tend to replicate successful models without differentiation, leading to a saturation of similar offerings [4][13]. - The example of Shimokitazawa in Tokyo illustrates how the influx of chain stores diminished the area's unique character, resulting in a decline in popularity [7][8]. Group 3: Solutions to Involution - To combat the loss of uniqueness, Shimokitazawa began to reject chain stores and instead welcomed distinctive local shops, such as those selling organic vegetables or unique records [10][12]. - This strategy successfully revitalized the community, demonstrating that embracing uniqueness can restore vibrancy and appeal [12]. Group 4: Unique Business Models - The article highlights a flagship store of Tommy in Tokyo that offers exclusive clothing items not available in other locations, emphasizing the value of uniqueness in a saturated market [15][16]. - The concept of limited availability is compared to Michelin-starred restaurants, suggesting that uniqueness is a rare and valuable resource in a world filled with sameness [17].

Core Viewpoint - The China Iron and Steel Association emphasizes the urgent need for collaboration between the steel and automotive industries to combat "involution" and promote healthy development across the supply chain [1][2] Group 1: Industry Challenges - Automotive companies are pressuring steel suppliers to lower prices, significantly impacting the stable operations of steel enterprises [1] - In 2024, key automotive companies are expected to produce approximately 40 million tons of automotive steel plates, with cold automotive plates accounting for about 29 million tons [1] - Some automotive manufacturers have demanded price reductions exceeding 10% from steel suppliers, which is beyond what steel companies can accept [1] Group 2: Financial Pressures - The current market environment has led to automotive steel plates having virtually no profit margin for steel manufacturers, while automotive companies continue to request price cuts [1] - Certain automotive firms are delaying payments to steel suppliers, extending payment terms through financial instruments, thereby increasing financial pressure on steel companies [1] Group 3: Innovation and Competition - The procurement model for automotive steel plates undermines previous R&D investments and service systems, negatively affecting the motivation for steel suppliers to innovate [2] - The association views "involution" as a detrimental force that disrupts fair competition, distorts resource allocation, and hinders innovation and advancement in the value chain [2] - The automotive industry is urged to adhere to fair competition principles and focus on technological advancement as a core competitive advantage [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in consumer culture, highlighting how similar offerings in shopping and dining experiences lead to a lack of uniqueness and excitement in local markets [1][3][4]. Group 1: Examples of Involution - Many famous local streets in China have become homogenized, offering the same types of food and souvenirs, which detracts from the authentic local experience [1]. - Major shopping centers in China exhibit similar patterns, with identical luxury brands and products across different locations, making shopping a monotonous experience [2][3]. Group 2: Causes of Involution - The primary reason for involution is that businesses tend to replicate each other's offerings, leading to a lack of differentiation in the market [4][8]. - The case of Shimokitazawa in Tokyo illustrates this issue, where the influx of chain stores diminished the area's unique character and appeal [5][7]. Group 3: Solutions to Involution - To combat the loss of uniqueness, Shimokitazawa began to reject chain stores and instead welcomed distinctive local shops, such as those selling organic vegetables and unique records [10][12]. - This strategy successfully revitalized the community, demonstrating that embracing uniqueness can restore vibrancy and interest [12]. Group 4: Unique Offerings as a Solution - The article emphasizes the importance of unique offerings, as seen in a flagship store of Tommy, which features exclusive items not available in other locations [13][14]. - The concept of limited availability enhances the value of products, suggesting that uniqueness is a scarce resource in a world of sameness [15].

据澎湃新闻，6月9日，美团召开2025年股东周年大会。在谈到外卖行业的竞争时，美团CEO王兴表 示，第一是非常欢迎更多参与者入场；二是再次重申，美团坚决反对内卷；三是对长期发展有信心。王 兴表示，行业有很多玩家、有更多竞争都是正常的，但不健康的无效"内卷式"竞争，无论对平台还是商 家来说，长期都不可持续，对行业有负面影响，美团坚决反对内卷。 ...

Group 1 - The core argument of the article revolves around the lack of self-discipline and governance within the Chinese automotive industry, highlighting that calls for self-regulation are often superficial and lack real commitment [2][9][12] - The article suggests that if major automotive companies were to achieve self-discipline, it would not be due to voluntary compliance but rather due to external governance pressures [3][12] - The current competitive landscape among leading automotive companies is characterized by a zero-sum mentality, where companies prioritize individual gains over collective benefits, leading to a fragmented industry [9][28] Group 2 - The article references a recent forum where automotive executives called for self-discipline, but emphasizes that such calls are often not backed by actionable strategies or frameworks [2][11] - It discusses the historical context of the automotive industry, comparing it to past conflicts where companies felt victimized by competitors, leading to a cycle of retaliation rather than collaboration [6][8] - The need for a shared understanding and communication among leading automotive companies is highlighted as essential for the industry's future, suggesting that without effective dialogue, the concept of a unified Chinese automotive industry remains abstract [27][29] Group 3 - The article draws parallels between the challenges faced by the automotive industry and historical examples, such as Napoleon's military campaigns, to illustrate the pitfalls of narrow focus and lack of broader strategic vision [13][19][24] - It emphasizes that the automotive industry must evolve beyond mere sales competition to foster a more sustainable and cooperative environment that benefits all players [18][26] - The necessity for industry standards and regulations is mentioned, indicating that government involvement is crucial but should be complemented by industry-led initiatives to create a cohesive framework for growth [21][22]

6月7日2025重庆汽车论坛上，吉利控股集团高级副总裁杨学良发表演讲，呼吁企业自律，认为行业自律是中国汽 车产业健康发展的守护神。 杨学良表示，汽车行业内许多企业都已签订过《汽车行业维护公平竞争市场秩序承诺书》，做出过承诺。 据悉，《汽车行业维护公平竞争市场秩序承诺书》包含四点内容：坚持遵守行规行约，规范市场营销活动，维护 公平竞争秩序；注重营销宣传方式方法，不夸大宣传、不虚假宣传，不为吸引眼球、增加获客而对消费者进行误 导性宣传；发扬质量为先、品质为本的工匠精神，以高质量产品，高品质服务，满足人民对美好生活的需求；弘 扬社会主义核心价值观念，积极履行社会责任。 杨学良认为，企业是行业自律的主体，企业不自律行业不可能自律。"企业与企业之间的竞争从本质上讲是人与人 之间的竞争，行业乱象的根源在于人性的恶得到了放大，人性的伪没有被识破，假话到处行，真话不可行，有法 不依、违法不究、执法不严，这是行业乱象的根源。" 就目前行业中存在的内卷现象，杨学良认为，这不仅威胁到行业的健康发展，消费者也将深受其害。"'卷'字一日 不消，内卷发动者一日不改邪归正，中国汽车就不可能由大变强，真正走向全球。" "内卷是最低级的竞争行 ...

Group 1 - The article discusses the resurgence of science fiction in popular culture, highlighting the return of series like "Black Mirror" and "Love, Death & Robots," which reflect the increasing relevance of sci-fi themes in contemporary society [1][15] - It emphasizes the concept of a technological singularity, where advancements in AI and other technologies could lead to a utopian society characterized by abundance and reduced need for work [3][10] - The article references Nick Bostrom's book "Deep Utopia," which explores three progressive future scenarios: post-scarcity, post-work, and post-instrumental eras, each representing different stages of societal evolution in response to technological advancements [4][10] Group 2 - The post-scarcity era is described as a time of material abundance where basic needs are easily met, drawing parallels to the myth of Cockaigne, a utopian land of plenty [6][8] - The post-work era envisions a future where automation eliminates the need for human labor, raising questions about the meaning of work and how society will adapt to reduced employment opportunities [10][11] - The post-instrumental era suggests a world where human effort is no longer required to achieve desires, leading to a potential shift in societal values and the concept of personal achievement [12][13] Group 3 - The article raises critical questions about the implications of advanced technology on human purpose and meaning, particularly in a future where work may no longer be necessary [17][19] - It highlights the need for society to redefine concepts of work and learning in light of these technological advancements, suggesting a potential shift towards leisure and community engagement [11][14] - Bostrom's work is positioned as a philosophical exploration of these themes, encouraging readers to consider the future of humanity in a world dominated by superintelligent AI [15][17]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint emphasizes the need for healthy competition in the market, moving away from harmful practices like "involution" and excessive price competition [1][2][3] - The recent discussions among various government departments highlight the importance of companies adhering to their social responsibilities and maintaining fair competition to protect consumer rights and promote a healthy market environment [1][3][5] - The call for innovation and improvement in product quality by leading companies is crucial for enhancing competitiveness and resilience in the industry [1][3] Group 2 - The necessity for strengthening legal frameworks related to fair competition is underscored, with ongoing revisions to laws such as the Anti-Unfair Competition Law and the Anti-Monopoly Law [4] - The 2025 legislative plan indicates a focus on enhancing regulations in key and emerging sectors to ensure effective supervision and penalties for unfair competition practices [4] - The emphasis on industry associations to promote self-regulation and compliance among their members is seen as a vital step towards maintaining market order [5][6] Group 3 - Companies are encouraged to adopt ESG reporting practices to demonstrate their progress in environmental, social, and governance areas, fostering accountability and transparency [6] - The current complex international economic landscape necessitates a stronger emphasis on regulating competition to encourage fair and legitimate practices while avoiding detrimental competition [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in China, attributing it to the country's transformation into an "economic machine" since the reform and opening-up in 1980, driven by GDP-centric performance evaluations and competition with foreign brands [2][3]. Group 1: Economic Machine and Involution - China has become an economic machine characterized by societal mobilization for economic gain, with a focus on GDP as a performance metric for local governments [2]. - The first phase of this economic machine involved domestic brands competing against foreign brands across various industries, leading to a focus on import substitution [2]. - Post-2018, the U.S. redefined China as a strategic competitor, prompting the need for China to enhance its economic capabilities, particularly in technology and manufacturing sectors [3]. Group 2: Strategies and Outcomes - The strategy of "involution" was adopted to foster competitiveness in emerging industries like electric vehicles, renewable energy, and semiconductor manufacturing, with local governments providing support to their enterprises [3]. - This approach aims to produce a few highly competitive companies that can dominate international markets, despite the high number of failures among supported firms [3]. - The article argues that this internal competition has significantly increased efficiency, although it raises concerns about fairness and social balance [3]. Group 3: Fairness and Distribution - The government has implemented policies to ensure relative fairness, such as maintaining public ownership and monopolies in critical industries, which do not participate in involution [4]. - The distribution system in China is portrayed as more equitable than that of the U.S., with various social welfare programs aimed at improving living standards and reducing poverty [5]. - The article emphasizes that the current system, which combines state capitalism in production with socialist principles in distribution, is superior in addressing social issues compared to the U.S. model [5].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "involution" in consumer markets, highlighting how similar offerings in shopping streets and centers lead to a lack of uniqueness and excitement in consumer experiences [1][2][3]. Group 1: Examples of Involution - Many famous shopping streets in China offer nearly identical products, such as the same stinky tofu and glass beads, which detracts from the local experience [1] - Major shopping centers feature similar luxury brands and products, making shopping feel like a monotonous game of buying the same items in different locations [2][3]. Group 2: Causes of Involution - Involution occurs because businesses tend to replicate each other's offerings, leading to a lack of differentiation in the market [4][8]. - The example of Shimokitazawa in Tokyo illustrates how the influx of chain stores diminished the area's unique character, resulting in decreased foot traffic [5][7][8]. Group 3: Solutions to Involution - To combat the loss of uniqueness, Shimokitazawa began to reject chain stores and instead welcomed distinctive small shops, such as those selling organic vegetables and exclusive records [10][11][12]. - This strategy successfully revitalized the community, demonstrating that uniqueness can attract consumers and restore vibrancy [12]. Group 4: Unique Business Models - The article highlights a flagship store of Tommy in Tokyo that offers exclusive items not available in other locations, emphasizing the value of uniqueness in a saturated market [13][14]. - The concept of limited availability is compared to Michelin-starred restaurants, suggesting that uniqueness is a rare and valuable resource in a world of sameness [15]. Group 5: Learning Opportunities - The article promotes a study trip to Japan, focusing on how low-growth environments can foster innovative business models and unique consumer experiences, featuring insights from renowned social psychologist Minoru Miura [16]. - The trip aims to explore new opportunities in the Chinese consumer market over the next 20 years [16].