critical discourse analysis on the lying flat phenomenon through Chinese state media

The lying flat phenomenon has become a widely discussed topic in recent years, particularly in China. It refers to a subculture of young people who reject the traditional societal norm of working hard and pursuing a successful career, instead choosing to live a minimalist lifestyle and embrace a leisurely pace of life. This movement has garnered attention from various media outlets, including state-run media in China. However, the way in which this phenomenon is portrayed in these media outlets reveals a particular discourse that is worth analyzing through the lens of critical discourse analysis (CDA).

CDA is a theoretical approach that examines the ways in which language is used to shape social practices and power relations. It seeks to expose the underlying ideologies and power structures that are embedded in language use. In the case of the lying flat phenomenon, CDA can be used to analyze the discourses that are present in Chinese state media coverage of this movement.

One of the most prominent discourses that can be identified in Chinese state media coverage of the lying flat phenomenon is the discourse of productivity. This discourse emphasizes the importance of working hard and contributing to society, and portrays those who embrace the lying flat lifestyle as lazy and unproductive. For example, a People’s Daily article published in June 2021 titled “Rejecting the Trend of Lying Flat: Pursuing a Happy Life through Hard Work” argues that “the pursuit of a happy life does not mean lying flat, but rather requires hard work and effort.”

Another discourse that can be identified in Chinese state media coverage of the lying flat phenomenon is the discourse of nationalism. This discourse emphasizes the importance of putting the interests of the nation above individual desires, and portrays those who embrace the lying flat lifestyle as selfish and unpatriotic. For example, a Global Times article published in July 2021 titled “Lying Flat is No Way Out for China’s Youth” argues that “young people should have a sense of responsibility and mission for the country and the nation, and should not indulge in their own selfish desires.”

A third discourse that can be identified in Chinese state media coverage of the lying flat phenomenon is the discourse of conformity. This discourse emphasizes the importance of conforming to societal norms and values, and portrays those who embrace the lying flat lifestyle as deviant and abnormal. For example, a China Daily article published in August 2021 titled “Lying Flat Will Not Help Build a Better Life” argues that “lying flat is a manifestation of individualism and nonconformity, which is not conducive to building a harmonious society.”

Overall, the discourses present in Chinese state media coverage of the lying flat phenomenon reveal a particular ideological stance that emphasizes productivity, nationalism, and conformity. By analyzing these discourses through the lens of CDA, we can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which language is used to shape societal practices and power relations.