A growing number of young people in China are embracing the “rat people” lifestyle, a new trend that highlights slacking off and rejecting the intense work culture that has dominated the country for years. This movement, gaining momentum on social media platforms like Weibo, has sparked widespread conversations, with the hashtag #RatPeople attracting millions of views.
Key Features of the ‘Rat People’ Trend:
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Unconventional Lifestyle: Followers of the “rat people” philosophy often share content that celebrates low-effort living—spending days in bed, ordering takeout, and engaging in activities that reject the traditional ideals of hard work and ambition.
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Origins and Meaning: The term builds upon the “lying flat” (躺平) movement, which emerged in response to China’s intense competitive job market and societal pressures. It represents a deliberate choice to opt out of the constant race for success and wealth.
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Impact on Young People: This movement is particularly popular among China’s Gen Z, who face high unemployment rates, rising living costs, and limited career opportunities. For many, “rat people” is seen as a form of quiet resistance to the expectations placed on them.
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Cultural Debate: While some view the lifestyle as a passive protest against the pressure to succeed, others worry about the long-term effects on productivity and the economy.
The rise of the “rat people” trend underscores a broader global conversation about work-life balance, mental health, and the changing definitions of success. For many, it represents a desire to break free from the grind of traditional work culture and seek fulfillment in new, often simpler ways.
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