Nancy Qian

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.

In this engaging discussion, Nancy Qian, Professor of Economics at Northwestern University and director of China Econ Lab, dives into China's demographic challenges, including declining fertility rates and youth unemployment. She examines the paradox of empty playgrounds amid educational pressures and highlights persistent income inequality between urban and rural areas. Nancy tackles the country's economic outlook, balancing concerns about poverty and trade tensions with a cautious optimism fueled by China's educated workforce. A thought-provoking exploration!