theguardian.com
China's Economic Slowdown Fuels Rise of Fortune-Telling Bars
Amidst China's slowing economic growth, fortune-telling bars offering qiuqian divination are booming in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, providing young adults with an affordable emotional outlet and a sense of control amidst uncertainty.
- What are the cultural and economic factors driving the resurgence of traditional Chinese divination practices like qiuqian?
- The rising popularity of these bars is linked to China's economic slowdown and resulting anxieties among young people. The 'spiritual economy', encompassing astrology apps and fortune-telling services, provides an emotional outlet and a sense of control amidst economic uncertainty. This trend is reflected in the over 100 million downloads of the Cece astrology app.
- How does the rising popularity of fortune-telling bars in China reflect broader economic and social anxieties among young people?
- In Beijing and other Chinese cities, fortune-telling bars like One As All are experiencing a surge in popularity, offering a blend of drinks and divination using Chinese lottery sticks (qiuqian). This trend reflects growing anxieties among young people about jobs and relationships, exacerbated by slowing economic growth.
- How might the government's stance on superstition influence the long-term viability and evolution of the 'spiritual economy' in China?
- The intertwining of fortune-telling with social drinking suggests a coping mechanism for economic stress. While the government maintains an atheist stance and cracks down on superstitious practices, the economic downturn might inadvertently create space for such businesses, as people seek affordable entertainment and emotional release. The trend may even be viewed positively by authorities if it stimulates consumer spending.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the rise of fortune-telling bars in a largely positive light, emphasizing the social and economic benefits, such as providing an emotional outlet and boosting consumption. The potential downsides are mentioned but downplayed. The choice of focusing on the Gen Z fortune teller and his modern approach reinforces a positive, trendy image.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, although descriptive words like "auspicious" and phrases like "spiritual salvation" subtly suggest a positive view of fortune telling. The use of the term "mysticism" could be considered slightly loaded but is used in context and not overly sensationalized.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the resurgence of fortune telling in China, particularly among young people, but omits discussion of potential negative consequences or criticisms of the practice. While acknowledging government crackdowns, it doesn't delve into the potential harm of exploitative practices within the industry or the potential for misinformation and manipulation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic dichotomy between the economic downturn and the rise of fortune telling, suggesting a direct causal relationship without exploring other contributing factors to the trend's popularity. It also presents a binary view of the government's stance, portraying it as either welcoming or hostile to the practice, ignoring the nuances of regulatory control.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights how economic anxieties, particularly among young people in China, are driving increased interest in fortune telling. This suggests a correlation between economic hardship and a search for spiritual solace, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities. The rise of the "spiritual economy" indicates that those facing financial pressures may be turning to less conventional methods of coping and seeking guidance, highlighting a disparity in access to resources and support systems.