Ten years ago, a simple, handwritten resignation letter captivated the Chinese internet. It read: The world is so big, I want to go see it. These words, penned by Gu Shaoqiang, a psychology teacher from Henan Experimental High School, resonated deeply with a generation yearning for freedom, exploration, and a life beyond the confines of traditional expectations. Gu’s impulsive decision to trade stability for the unknown became a rallying cry for those dreaming of escaping the daily grind and embracing the vastness of the world.
But a decade later, the narrative has dramatically shifted. The once-enticing call of wanderlust has been largely overshadowed by a pragmatic pursuit of stability and security. The road less traveled is now significantly less traveled, replaced by a crowded highway leading to government offices. The kaogong (考公) – the national civil service examination – has become fiercely competitive, reflecting a profound change in societal values and economic realities.
This article explores the reasons behind this dramatic shift, examining the economic pressures, societal expectations, and evolving perceptions of career security that have fueled the kaogong frenzy. We will delve into the experiences of those vying for coveted government positions, analyze the implications of this trend for China’s future, and consider whether the allure of stability has come at the cost of individual aspirations and innovation.
The Allure of Stability in an Uncertain World
The primary driver behind the kaogong surge is the perceived stability and security that government jobs offer. In a rapidly changing and increasingly competitive economy, the promise of a steady paycheck, comprehensive benefits, and a relatively predictable career path is incredibly appealing, especially to young graduates entering a challenging job market.
The economic boom that fueled China’s growth for decades has slowed, and the job market has become increasingly volatile. Private sector companies, once the preferred destination for ambitious graduates, are now facing increased competition, regulatory scrutiny, and economic uncertainty. Layoffs, salary cuts, and long working hours have become commonplace, eroding the perceived advantages of private sector employment.
In contrast, government jobs offer a sanctuary of stability. Civil servants enjoy job security, even during economic downturns. They receive comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, pension plans, and housing subsidies, which are often superior to those offered by private companies. Moreover, government jobs typically offer a more structured and predictable career path, with opportunities for advancement based on seniority and performance.
The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified the allure of stability. While many private sector companies struggled to survive, government agencies remained relatively unscathed. Civil servants continued to receive their salaries and benefits, providing a stark contrast to the uncertainty and hardship faced by many in the private sector. This experience reinforced the perception that government jobs are a safe haven in times of crisis.
The Pressure Cooker of Competition: The Kaogong Exam
The intense competition for civil service positions is a testament to the overwhelming demand for these jobs. Millions of candidates register for the kaogong exam each year, vying for a limited number of openings. The application ratios can be staggering, with some positions attracting thousands of applicants.
The kaogong exam is notoriously difficult, testing candidates’ knowledge of a wide range of subjects, including politics, economics, law, history, and current affairs. The exam also assesses candidates’ analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and writing proficiency. Preparation for the exam requires months of dedicated study and often involves attending expensive cram schools and hiring private tutors.
The pressure to succeed in the kaogong exam is immense. Many candidates view it as a make-or-break opportunity, believing that their future career prospects depend on securing a government job. The competition is so fierce that even top graduates from prestigious universities face a significant challenge in landing a coveted position.
The kaogong frenzy has created a thriving industry of test preparation services. Cram schools and online platforms offer a variety of courses, practice exams, and study materials designed to help candidates improve their chances of success. The cost of these services can be substantial, placing a significant financial burden on candidates and their families.
Societal Expectations and the Pursuit of a Good Life
The kaogong craze is also driven by deeply ingrained societal expectations. In Chinese culture, government service has traditionally been viewed as a prestigious and honorable profession. Civil servants are often seen as pillars of society, responsible for upholding justice, promoting economic development, and serving the public good.
Parents often exert significant pressure on their children to pursue a career in government. They believe that a government job will provide their children with a stable and secure future, as well as social status and respect. This pressure can be particularly intense for children from rural areas or disadvantaged backgrounds, who see government service as a pathway to upward mobility.
The concept of a good life in China is often associated with financial security, social stability, and family harmony. Government jobs are seen as a means to achieve these goals, providing a stable income, a comfortable lifestyle, and the opportunity to raise a family in a secure environment.
However, the pursuit of a good life through government service can come at a cost. Many young people feel pressured to conform to societal expectations, even if it means sacrificing their own passions and interests. The kaogong exam can be a grueling and stressful experience, and success is not guaranteed. Even those who secure government jobs may find that the reality of civil service is not as glamorous as they had imagined.
The Implications for China’s Future
The kaogong craze has significant implications for China’s future. While a strong and capable civil service is essential for effective governance, an overemphasis on government jobs can stifle innovation, discourage entrepreneurship, and limit the pool of talent available to the private sector.
A generation of young people who are primarily motivated by stability and security may be less likely to take risks, pursue innovative ideas, or start their own businesses. This could hinder China’s efforts to transition to a more innovation-driven economy.
The intense competition for government jobs also raises concerns about corruption and favoritism. The pressure to succeed can lead some candidates to resort to unethical or illegal means, undermining the integrity of the civil service system.
Furthermore, the kaogong craze can exacerbate existing inequalities. Candidates from wealthy families or urban areas often have access to better education and resources, giving them an advantage in the exam. This can perpetuate a cycle of privilege and disadvantage, limiting opportunities for those from less privileged backgrounds.
Rebalancing Aspirations: Beyond the Iron Rice Bowl
Addressing the kaogong craze requires a multi-faceted approach. The government needs to create a more attractive and competitive environment for private sector employment, while also promoting a more diverse and inclusive culture that values innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk-taking.
One key step is to reduce the regulatory burden on private companies and create a more level playing field. This would encourage investment, stimulate job creation, and make private sector jobs more attractive to young graduates.
The government also needs to improve the quality of education and training, ensuring that graduates have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern economy. This includes promoting vocational training and entrepreneurship education, as well as fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Furthermore, it is important to challenge traditional societal expectations and promote a more diverse range of career paths. This can be achieved through public awareness campaigns that highlight the success stories of entrepreneurs, innovators, and artists, and by encouraging young people to pursue their passions and interests, even if it means deviating from the traditional path.
Finally, the government needs to strengthen the integrity of the civil service system and ensure that appointments are based on merit, not connections or favoritism. This would help to restore public trust in government and reduce the incentive for corruption.
Conclusion: A World Still Worth Seeing
The shift from The world is so big, I want to go see it to the kaogong frenzy reflects a complex interplay of economic pressures, societal expectations, and evolving perceptions of career security. While the allure of stability is understandable in an uncertain world, it is important to recognize the potential costs of an overemphasis on government jobs.
China needs a vibrant and dynamic private sector to drive economic growth and innovation. It also needs a generation of young people who are willing to take risks, pursue their passions, and contribute to society in diverse ways.
The world is still a big and fascinating place, full of opportunities for exploration, discovery, and personal growth. While the road to public service may be crowded, it is not the only path to a fulfilling and meaningful life. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive culture that values innovation, entrepreneurship, and individual aspirations, China can ensure that its young people have the freedom and opportunity to pursue their dreams and make their own unique contributions to the world. The spirit of exploration and the desire to see the world should not be extinguished by the pursuit of stability, but rather channeled into new and innovative endeavors that will shape China’s future. The world is still so big, and there are still so many things to see and do.
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