The Philosophy of 45 Degrees of Life

The Philosophy of “45 Degrees of Life”

Nowadays people are facing a dilemma between jumping in the involution(neijuan) process or simply turning to the easy lying flat(tandping) idea. Either way seems to be a uncomfortable choice containing its own non-negligible flaws.The netizen created a phrase called “45 Degrees of Life",and this term was coined by Chinese netizens to describe the situation we described earlier where some young people feel they are stuck in. Unlike those who strive hard to excel in life’s competitions, these people either lack the strong impetus to work hard or the capabilities to become a high-achiever. Unlike those who choose to”lie flat” by avoiding competition and leading a leisurely life, these people cannot really afford to do so, because they have to work and make a living. If 90 degrees represent going all out to achieve one’s goal, and 0 degrees represent doing the very minimal, 45 degrees symbolize a state of frustration and indecision^[1].

However,many people actually endow positive meaning to this term and there comes the philosophy of “45 Degrees of Life",representing a balanced state between working hard and relaxing, as well as between work and life.The philosophy of "45 Degrees of Life" refers to the attitudes and values of modern young people towards life. They no longer pursue the traditional sense of "rolling" (working hard all the time) and "lying" (comfortable and leisurely), but instead pursue a balanced state, neither too tired to "roll", nor satisfied with "lying", hoping to find a balance between life and work. The formation of this attitude towards life is related to the differences in traditional values. The changes and development of modern society have allowed young people to see more possibilities. They no longer blindly pursue material wealth and success, but pay more attention to spiritual pursuits and the quality of life. At the same time, people need more relaxation and rest time in the chaos of the fast-paced world, and pursue physical and mental health and a balanced life^[2].

In the meantime, it is important to point out that "45 Degrees of Life" is not just a philosophy serving individual purpose.Because the act also contributes to the society as a whole.Firstly, it helps maintain a healthy state of mind among people in a fast-pace world.Secondly, simple involution without purpose implies adding intensity without efficiency or value added^[3]. So if the society can adapt a "45 Degrees of Life" philosophy altogether, there will be a better stage where prosperity of the country and the balance between work and life of people can both be satisfied.

Digging deep into the philosophy of “45 Degrees of Life”, we can see that it derives from the traditional thinking of “Zhongyong” created by ancient Chinese Philosopher Kongzi, or “Confucius”. So the development of the philosophy of “45 Degrees of Life” can also be viewed as a wisdom inherited from the history. In the meantime, it is also vital to point out the creativity and optimism people presented in the establishment of the philosophy, since the term used to be a metaphor of a dilemma but now instead a adjustable meme.

Instead of battling between involution and lying flat, people can choose to embrace the philosophy of “45 Degrees of Life",leading to a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Reference

[1]Li Dan, Zhang Chanwen,Catch Phrase | 45 degrees of life, Shenzhen Daily,Updated: 2022-08-09

[2]Shanghaidaikuan Ken,Understand "45 degrees of life" and interpret the significance of media comments on "45 degrees of youth",Zhihu, 2023-04-13 10:32

[3]Manzi Zhang,"Rolling and not moving, lying and lying uneven"...... 45degrees of Life: Open another possibility,Banyuetan,2022-06-01 09:28