To get by in society, you can't avoid the ways of the world.
Tips
history
Found in Wen Tianxiang’s 《送僧了敬序》 (Song) and Feng Menglong’s 《醒世恒言》 (Ming): even a belly full of learning cannot save you from "not seeing through 人情世故". The phrase has carried the same meaning for 800+ years.
culture
A loaded term in Chinese life, covers gift-giving etiquette, when to speak up or stay quiet, returning favours, face management. Somewhat positive (social skill) or negative (calculation) depending on tone.
