Social Media Crackdown on “Lying Down” Culture
Recent events have seen the deplatforming of numerous popular social media accounts that promote the “lying down” lifestyle, which favors a simpler, low-consumption approach over the traditional rat race. Despite the official reason citing violations of platform rules, many speculate that these actions stem from a clash with government initiatives that endorse marriage, childbirth, homeownership, and relentless consumerism. Amid record-high youth unemployment and stagnant wages, the authorities appear to view these “simple life” content creators as harmful influencers.
History of Censorship in China
This isn’t the first instance where Chinese authorities have targeted those opting for a slower pace of life. In May 2021, a “lie-downism” group on Douban with nearly 10,000 members faced a ban. A leaked directive mandated that e-commerce platforms stop selling items featuring terms like “lie down” and “involution.” State media and the Communist Youth League (CYL) have periodically criticized this perceived slacker culture, asserting that movements like “lying flat” hinder societal progress.
Vloggers Facing Deplatforming
Many content creators who share their experiences of frugal living across platforms like Bilibili and Douyin have been blocked, including popular vloggers such as “Little A is Online” and “Internet Cafe Girl Little Qing.” These creators typically document their costs of living while exploring various cities or enjoying activities like gaming and cooking on a budget. Notably, Hu Chenfeng, known for his insightful videos about urban life and economics, also faced censorship, particularly after his interview with an elderly individual living on a meager pension went viral.
The Double Standard of “Frugal Living”
While the “lying down” movement faces strict censorship, more benign forms of frugality, like “produce-scavenging videos,” have gained traction. Young people engaging in such practices see it as a way to save money. Surprisingly, these videos received praise in media outlets like Aurora News, even as critics point out that they reflect deeper issues of poverty and wage stagnation in society.
Community Response to Deplatforming
Social media users have voiced their support for banned creators, praising the honesty and relatability of vloggers like Little A. They highlight how these creators offer a necessary counter-narrative to the demanding work culture that predominates in modern society. Comments on platforms like Weibo reveal a growing unease about the implications of such censorship, as many express concern over the pressure to conform to societal expectations while sacrificing their happiness.
Implications for Young People
The censorship of “lying down” content creators sends a chilling message to young individuals seeking alternative lifestyles. By eliminating these voices, authorities aim to suppress a mindset that might critique the relentless pursuit of material wealth. This situation raises critical questions about individual freedom and the broader economic structures that govern young people’s lives in China. Many online commentators are worried that the disappearance of these vloggers signifies a suffocating environment where dissenting lifestyles are unwelcome.
Seeking Balance in a Competitive Society
As society continues to push for relentless ambition and productivity, the need for balance becomes increasingly vital. While some may view the “lying down” philosophy as a lack of ambition, others see it as a necessary response to the harsh realities facing many young people today. The ongoing backlash against alternative lifestyles suggests a growing unease within the system, highlighting the need for a dialogue about the value of contentment and self-sufficiency over constant consumption and competition.
