China, a nation historically rooted in the values of hard work and dedication, is witnessing a paradigm shift in its younger generation’s approach to life and work. Amidst economic slowdowns and rising unemployment, terms like “Tang ping” (lying flat) and “bai lan” (let it rot) have emerged, encapsulating a sentiment of resignation and passive resistance among the youth.
5 Key Takeaways:
- The “Tang ping” or “lying flat” movement encourages a minimalist lifestyle, advocating against pursuing a career, buying a house, or starting a family.
- The movement began with an online post in 2021 by a man in his mid-20s, detailing his choice to embrace a “low desire” lifestyle.
- Youth unemployment in China reached a record high in May 2023, with 20.8% of urban youth between 16 to 24 years unemployed.
- The character “Kong Yiji” from Chinese literature has become symbolic of the struggles faced by the youth, representing the educated yet unemployed.
- The Chinese government’s response has been to push the youth into the workforce, emphasizing hard work as the solution to individual and national challenges.
The “Tang ping” movement, which translates to “lying flat” in English, emerged during a period of economic downturn in China. As the job market suffered, many young individuals began to question the age-old values of hard work and dedication. Why strive in a system that offers diminishing returns?
This sentiment was further fueled by an online post in 2021. A man in his mid-20s shared his journey of “lying flat” for two years, devoid of employment. This post, which quickly went viral, was seen as a challenge to the government’s vision of a hardworking populace dedicated to nation-building.
However, the reality on the ground is stark. Many young individuals find themselves in low-paying, flexible jobs, such as delivery roles. The rise in female delivery personnel in Beijing is a testament to this trend. Others have turned to live streaming, hoping to monetize their online presence.
The narrative of “Kong Yiji,” a character from Chinese literature, has resonated with this disillusioned youth. Kong represents the educated yet unemployed, a reflection of the current state where a record number of graduates compete for limited job opportunities. This sentiment was captured in a sarcastic song by content creator Guishango, which, despite its popularity, was taken down by censors.
The government’s stance has been clear. A commentary by Chinese Central Television emphasized the importance of hard work, suggesting that individuals, like Kong Yiji, could improve their circumstances through dedication and effort.
Yet, the reality remains complex. While some young individuals opt to stay in bustling cities, others are exploring opportunities in lower-tier cities, hoping for a better quality of life. Cities like Meihoko have witnessed significant population growth, but challenges persist.
Lessons Learned:
- Economic downturns can lead to significant shifts in societal values and perceptions.
- Traditional values, such as hard work and dedication, can be challenged when they no longer align with the realities faced by a generation.
- The role of social media and online platforms is pivotal in shaping narratives and movements.
- Government responses and interventions play a crucial role in shaping public sentiment and addressing challenges.
- Migration to lower-tier cities is not a guaranteed solution, as challenges persist across the urban landscape.
Final Thoughts:
China’s current socio-economic landscape presents a dichotomy. On one hand, there’s a government pushing for hard work and dedication as the path forward. On the other, a disillusioned youth, grappling with unemployment and economic challenges, is seeking alternative narratives and solutions. The “Tang ping” movement and the sentiments of “letting it rot” are not just passive resistance but a call for introspection and change. As China navigates this phase, the choices made by its youth and the responses of its leadership will shape the nation’s future trajectory.
