Wednesday’s Edition: Achievement vs. Ascription

The 8 political drivers

An American sales executive named John Shipwright is sitting alone at a conference table in Shanghai. He’s got a handy booklet on Chinese business etiquette. He’s got the authority to close the deal. He’s got the data.

Across from him sit seven people, seven. He can’t figure out who’s in charge.

I’ve watched this scene play out. Different cities, differen…