The idiom 'Jī quǎn zhī shēng xiāng wén, lǎo sǐ bù xiāng wǎng lái' originates from ancient Chinese philosophy. During the Spring and Autumn period, the renowned philosopher Laozi envisioned an ideal state for neighboring communities.

He suggested that people in adjacent villages or small states could live close enough to see each other and hear the sounds of each other's chickens and dogs. Yet, they would be content with their own rich food, wear their own traditional clothes, and follow their distinct customs, leading their entire lives without ever visiting or interacting with their neighbors.

This concept reflected a desire for self-sufficiency and minimal external interference. However, later historian Sima Qian critiqued this philosophy, implying that such a complete lack of interaction among close communities was not practical or desirable in the real world.