NEWS//Tangping - lying flat
Chinese millennials have created a new buzzword to describe their new movement.
Tangping means "lying flat." It describes a nonviolent protest that is attracting over-worked young adults. Tangping is the refusal to pursue success, money, and consumerism. It is a form of passive resistance to materialism in China. The Tangping philosophy embraces achievement goals that are more attainable. It advocates more time for leisure activities -- or for doing nothing
Wendy, a member of a tangping social media group, told a reporter that her lying-down philosophy could be summed up as “prioritizing peace and tranquility of the body and soul.” Wendy continued, “According to the mainstream standard, a decent lifestyle must include working hard, trying to get good results on work evaluations, striving to buy a home and a car, and making babies. However, I loaf around on the job whenever I can, refusing to work overtime, not worrying about promotions, and not participating in corporate drama.” She is planning to quit her job and living off her savings.
Huang Ping, a literature professor at East China Normal University, says that to "lie down is a rational choice rather than a negative attitude…. For some young people, it’s a way for them to unburden themselves. When you can’t catch up with society’s development — say, skyrocketing home prices — tangping is actually the most rational choice.”
Resistance to achieving the Chinese dream of financial prosperity is understandable. Millennials in China are frequently expected to work more than 40 hours each week, often without overtime pay. Working conditions can be grim. However, some suggest that these young adults, who grew up under China's one-child-policy, are acting out because they were spoiled by doting parents and grandparents.
The government condemns lying flat. A commentary published by Guangzhou-based newspaper Nanfang Daily stated, “No matter what, young people must have confidence in the future. China is the world’s most populous country, with abundant labor resources and a huge market advantage. … The only happy life is a hardworking life.”
The Southern Daily newspaper, published by the party, said in an editorial: “Struggle is a kind of happiness. Choosing to 'lie flat' in the face of pressure is not only unjust but also shameful.”
It is not surprising that Chinese censors are ridding the internet of references of tangping. Entrepreneurs are also forbidden to sell clothes, phone cases, and other merchandise branded with tangping.
Sources: The Guardian, Southern Daily, Sixth Tone, New York Times, BBC, Italy 24 News