On 27th May, we listened to Dr. Loreta Poškaitė's lecture titled "Contemporary Chinese Youth and Its Subcultures" in a virtual setting. The lecture is relevant to individuals interested in modern Chinese society, particularly those studying sociology, cultural studies, or Asian studies. It addressed the multifaceted nature of youth identities, including conflicts with traditional values, governmental policies, and global influences.
The speaker first emphasized the heterogeneity of Chinese youth, distinguishing between rural and urban youth and the influence of socio-economic factors on youth culture. The diversity of youth experiences lays the foundation for the emergence of complex cultural expressions, and historical events have fostered a unique blend of rebelliousness and conformity among Chinese youth.
The discussion delved into how subcultures have become expressions of resistance against mainstream values and government policies, emphasizing the interactive role of art and the internet. The lecture also examined gender roles and expectations, detailing how modern Chinese youth navigate traditional values and contemporary aspirations.
It explored global cultural influences and youth interactions with international trends, particularly highlighting Western ideologies versus local traditions, as Chinese youth increasingly face challenges in balancing globalization and traditional values. The second part of the lecture addressed the emergence of new subcultures and how this reflects in the context of modern challenges (employment pressure, mental health issues, the role of social media, cultural heritage, and identity).
Dr. Loreta Poškaitė's lecture provided profound insights into the complexities of contemporary Chinese youth culture. We learned how historical events have shaped the values and identities of modern youth, who face various challenges, including societal expectations, mental health issues, and the influence of globalization. By examining emerging subcultures and their motivations, we see a resilient generation striving to express their identities while simultaneously seeking to preserve old traditions.