中文
Editor's note: CGTN's First Voice provides instant commentary on breaking stories. The column clarifies emerging issues and better defines the news agenda, offering a Chinese perspective on the latest global events.
The recent exodus of TikTok creators from the United States, due to concerns over what seems an imminent ban on the app in the country from Sunday, has sparked a wave of cross-cultural comparisons on Xiaohongshu, the Chinese social media platform often likened to Instagram and also popularly known as RedNote.
As these creators, now dubbed "TikTok refugees," share their experiences, a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and a re-evaluation of the digital landscape has emerged. This has further fueled the ongoing "audit" of life between Chinese and American netizens on the platform. From comparing salaries and rents to dissecting healthcare costs and educational expenses, these online discussions are challenging deep-rooted stereotypes.
The stark contrasts revealed in these comparisons are often surprising. Many American netizens share their struggles with high living costs, particularly in urban areas. One common theme is the exorbitant cost of healthcare.
"I just got a simple bill for a routine checkup and it was over $500," an American user shared. "I can't imagine what a serious illness would cost! I feel like I'm constantly on the brink of financial ruin due to medical expenses."
In contrast, Chinese netizens' posts show the surprising affordability of many goods and services in their country. For instance, the cost of housing, particularly in smaller cities, is often significantly lower, compared to what it is in the United States.
"I can buy a decent apartment in my hometown for the price of a parking space in San Francisco," posted a Chinese user. "It's crazy how different our living experiences are." This disparity is often attributed to factors such as government policies, economic development, and cultural differences.
These online exchanges also reveal fascinating cultural insights. For example, Chinese netizens are surprised by the global popularity of Chinese pop music (C-pop) artists like Jackson Wang and Lay Zhang, and how these artists are contributing to the growing popularity of Korean pop music, or K-pop, globally. This leads to discussions about the globalization of music, the influence of Asian culture on global pop culture, and the changing dynamics of the music industry.
Similarly, American netizens are intrigued by the enduring popularity of classic rock bands like The Beatles and Rolling Stones, and how these bands continue to influence contemporary music, sparking debates about the preservation of musical heritage and the evolution of musical genres across generations. These cross-cultural exchanges offer valuable opportunities for people to learn about different lifestyles, values, and perspectives.
The greater value of these online exchanges lies in their ability to challenge deeply ingrained stereotypes and foster a more nuanced understanding. For example, some news outlets and political discourses in the U.S. often present simplified – and sometimes biased – portrayals of China. Xiaohongshu, on the other hand, provides a platform for ordinary people to share their authentic experiences and perspectives, offering a more humanized and nuanced view of life in both countries.
"I was surprised to learn that many of my classmates are working part-time to cover their tuition and living expenses. This is very different from the image of affluent American students I had in my mind," a Chinese youth studying in the U.S. wrote. "It really opened my eyes to the realities of life for many young people in the U.S."
This firsthand account highlights how personal experiences can challenge preconceived notions and foster greater cultural empathy.
Furthermore, these online discussions have the potential to inform policy debates and promote greater understanding between the two nations. By highlighting the challenges faced by ordinary people, these comparisons can shed light on issues such as social welfare, and the impact of globalization. For example, the high cost of healthcare in the U.S. has sparked discussions about healthcare reform and the need for more affordable and accessible healthcare options.
The "audit" of life between Chinese and American netizens on Xiaohongshu is more than just a social media trend. It represents a powerful tool for cross-cultural understanding, challenging stereotypes and promoting a more nuanced and realistic view of both countries. As social media continues to evolve, these platforms will play an increasingly important role in shaping global perceptions and fostering greater understanding among people from different cultures.
