Urban Youth in China: Modernity, the Internet and the Self

This insightful exploration reveals how Chinese youth interact with the Internet, shaping their identities amidst rapid social change, as detailed in Urban Youth in China.

In Urban Youth in China: Modernity, the Internet and the Self, Fengshu Liu explores the intricate relationship between Chinese youth and the burgeoning Internet. As China undergoes rapid social transformation, the book examines how these young individuals navigate their identities in a digital age. With Internet users in China skyrocketing from 22.5 million in 2001 to 253 million by 2008, the narrative highlights the predominance of urban youth, particularly those under thirty, in shaping the online landscape.

The book emphasizes the unique experiences of the only-child generation, who are at the forefront of this digital revolution. Liu investigates how the Internet serves as both a platform for self-expression and a means of connection, while also posing challenges to traditional notions of identity and community. Through a systematic investigation, Urban Youth in China sheds light on the implications of this interaction for the future of Chinese society and the global landscape.

By delving into themes of modernity, identity, and the role of technology, Liu provides valuable insights into what it means to be young and Chinese today. The book raises important questions about how 'Chineseness' is being reshaped in the Internet Age, offering a comprehensive analysis that is relevant not only to China but to the broader context of youth culture worldwide.