Today, Explained China’s young and restless
25 snips
Aug 28, 2023 
Nancy Qian, an economics professor at Northwestern's Kellogg School, dives into the dismal state of China's youth unemployment. She shares insights on how many young adults are now embracing the 'lying flat' movement, rejecting the relentless 996 work culture in favor of personal well-being. The podcast explores the isolation and discontent among this demographic, particularly in the face of economic instability and societal pressures. With personal stories illuminating their challenges, Qian paints a vivid picture of a generation grappling with dissatisfaction and disillusionment.
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China's Youth Disillusionment
- Chinese youth face high unemployment and reject hustle culture.
- Many are "lying flat" (tang ping), giving up on traditional goals.
High Youth Unemployment
- One in five young Chinese workers are unemployed.
- The government stopped publishing these high unemployment figures.
Rejecting 996
- Some Chinese youth reject the 996 work schedule (9 am-9 pm, 6 days/week).
- They choose lower-paying or government jobs over demanding private sector roles.