New Books in Economics Xiang Biao and Wu Qi, "Self as Method: Thinking Through China and the World" (Palgrave Macmillan, 2022)
Sep 22, 2025
In this engaging conversation, social anthropologist Xiang Biao delves into his groundbreaking book, advocating for intellectual activism among China's youth. He shares insights on bridging theory with real-life experiences, emphasizing the importance of local conflicts in fostering societal change. Joined by journalist Wu Qi, they discuss the transformative power of public engagement and how various institutions shape intellectual discourse. The talk touches on the need to remember collective traumas while navigating ambition and uncertainty in everyday life.
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Conversations Over Academic Monologues
- Xiang Biao chose a conversational format to avoid dry academic prose and reach young readers directly.
- He wanted public questions to shape the book rather than guessing youth interests from the academy.
The 'Suspension' Of Modern Life
- Xiang Biao observed many people live in 'suspension'—working frantically just to stay in place.
- He connected that metaphor to youth anxieties and the appetite for clearer meaning in life.
Focus On Concrete Details First
- Do pay close attention to concrete local contradictions instead of jumping to polarized categories.
- Try to examine implementation details and human consequences when debating big policies.
