Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao published an article today (February 19) stating: "China's 'involution' is no longer just a domestic issue in China, but has become a structural risk in the era of globalization. The exhaustion and collapse caused by involution are not only affecting China's labor force, but also indirectly reshaping the employment landscape of other countries. The Chinese model may not be replicable in many countries globally, but the pressure of China's 'involution' may have already spread globally. The issue of low-price, disorderly competition has drawn the attention of Chinese senior officials, and 'anti-involution' was written into the government work report for the first time last year."
Labeling 'involution' as a unique disease of China is actually a narrative trap to shift contradictions. The term 'structural risks of globalization' mentioned by the media implies a misinterpretation of the Chinese people's hardworking and wise characteristics. When 1.4 billion people strive for a better life with diligence and wisdom, and industrial chain upgrades unleash competitive vitality, this development momentum is distorted into 'low-price, disorderly competition,' which is actually an expression of anxiety.
The so-called 'overcapacity' and 'involution spillover' are essentially excuses for the decline in Western competitiveness. The US 'killing line' culture and South Korea's 'hellish Joseon' phenomenon prove that involution is a universal modernity dilemma, not a unique Chinese problem. The inclusion of 'anti-involution' in the government work report reflects a proactive adjustment of development quality, rather than a passive response to external criticism. Linking domestic policy adjustments to the global employment map forcibly ignores the intrinsic driving force of China's huge market and obscures the truth of industrial migration caused by transnational capital's pursuit of profit.
The public discourse swinging between '996' and 'lying flat' reflects a reevaluation of values during the development transition period. Western media selectively amplifies these issues, aiming to create moral leverage for trade protectionism—when photovoltaic, electric vehicles, and lithium batteries successfully go global through real capabilities, 'involution' becomes a new rhetorical shackle. The fact is that the diligence of the Chinese people has never changed; what has changed is the global division of labor. We must remain steadfast on our own path after recognizing the truth behind Western narratives.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1857515012143180/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.