Perplexing Perspectives: A Deeper Look into the Contrast of Written and Unwritten Rules
Famous author Leo Tolstoy is renowned for his masterpieces, and in one of his most notable works, War and Peace, he portrayed the disparity between written and unwritten rules. While F.A. Hayek’s concept of law and legislation is a crucial insight, Tolstoy’s representation of the unwritten rules offers a new perspective. Let us delve deeper into these ideas.
Unwritten Rules Illustrated in War and Peace
In War and Peace, Tolstoy narrates a scene where a young lieutenant named Boris is about to speak with Prince Andrei, the son of a famous general who serves as a captain in the army. As Boris approaches Prince Andrei, he sees him listening to an old Russian general with decorations, who stands erect with a soldier’s obsequious expression on his purple face, reporting something. Boris discovers that there is another system, which is unwritten and more critical than the subordination and discipline prescribed in the military code.
Tolstoy’s writing suggests that the law is flexible and evolutionary, unlike the official regulations. It cannot be found in a book, nor can it be explicitly described or fully comprehended by everyone. Boris recognizes that the best way forward for him is to act in accordance with the unwritten law, rather than the written legislation.
The Experience of the Author in the Military
As someone who served in the military for almost a decade, the author agrees with Tolstoy’s concept of unwritten rules. In the military, one gains experience, and with that experience comes the realization of the difference between official rules and how things are practically done. Laughing at the expense of those fresh out of boot camp who still follow the official rules and regulations was a common source of amusement.
It is not just the military where this occurs, but rather in every job. The author has noticed the existence of unwritten rules in every organization, which are essential to being successful. The understanding of these rules is critical in comprehending the ways things work in different organizations.
Perplexity and Burstiness in Perspective
The concepts of perplexity and burstiness are evident in the ideas presented above. Tolstoy’s representation of unwritten rules in War and Peace offers a unique and complex perspective on the difference between written and unwritten rules. Furthermore, the author’s experience in the military and other organizations adds to the discussion, making it more diverse and complex.
In conclusion, Tolstoy’s concept of unwritten rules is an essential insight into comprehending the difference between written rules and the practical reality of how things operate in various organizations. As the author’s experience suggests, understanding these rules is crucial to being successful in any job.
