Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unique journey of Cheng Lingfeng after leaving Tencent, emphasizing his pursuit of creative freedom and the development of his own philosophical framework through the lens of Tencent and broader societal observations [2][49]. Group 1: Cheng Lingfeng's Journey - Cheng Lingfeng transitioned from a Tencent journalist to a self-media entrepreneur, exploring various avenues of self-expression and commercial viability in the digital space [2][10]. - His departure from Tencent was motivated by a desire for freedom and the realization of the potential in self-media platforms like Weibo and WeChat [8][12]. - Cheng's early self-media ventures included innovative monetization strategies such as advertising and reader donations, which he successfully implemented [14][15]. Group 2: Philosophy and Creative Freedom - Cheng emphasizes the importance of creative freedom in media, arguing that true creativity is stifled in traditional media environments due to organizational constraints [16]. - He believes that the current generation of creators operates on a different level, characterized by a more intuitive and less effortful approach to information acquisition [33][35]. - Cheng's philosophical evolution reflects a shift from a focus on resume-based competition to a more profound, philosophical competition, suggesting that understanding systems is crucial for navigating the modern landscape [22][61]. Group 3: Observations on Media and Society - Cheng critiques the media's role in shaping narratives, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with the power to influence public perception [27][48]. - He reflects on the changing dynamics of social media, particularly the distinction between familiar and unfamiliar social interactions, and how this impacts platforms like WeChat and Douyin [39][40]. - The article highlights Cheng's belief that the essence of media lies in its ability to resonate with audiences, rather than merely relying on the creator's fame [19][20].