Economist Podcasts Party like it’s 1949: China’s National Day
Oct 1, 2019
David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, unveils the stark contrasts during China’s National Day celebrations. He discusses the imposing military parade that showcases cutting-edge technology against a backdrop of unrest in Hong Kong, where a vibrant protest culture is emerging despite increasing authoritarianism. Additionally, the conversation explores the growing trend of hot desking in workplaces, weighing its cost-saving benefits against employee dissatisfaction and the chaos of shared spaces.
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China's Military Might on Display
- China's 70th-anniversary parade showcased advanced weaponry, including the Dongfeng 41 missile.
- This large mobile nuclear missile is capable of reaching any part of the United States.
A Narrative of Unbroken Progress
- Compared to the 50th-anniversary parade, this year's event focused on projecting an image of unbroken progress.
- The parade glossed over historical events like the Cultural Revolution and the Great Leap Forward.
Enthusiastic Crowds in Tiananmen Square
- University students in Tiananmen Square expressed excitement, chanting slogans like "Long live China."
- Despite the historical significance of the location, the atmosphere felt like a Disneyland parade.