Young people in China are increasingly turning to Professor Biao Xiang, a 54-year-old anthropologist based in Germany, for guidance on navigating the pressures of modern life. Xiang, who now directs the Max Planck Institute for Social Anthropology, has become an unexpected source of comfort for a generation dealing with rising anxiety. His talks, which explore topics like economic uncertainty and social change, have drawn large audiences, including around 500 people at a recent event in Singapore. His insights into the struggles of young people have earned him a following, with some even referring to him as an "idol." Xiang has spoken at prestigious Chinese universities, including Peking University, and has been featured in major Chinese media outlets. In Singapore, he discussed how young people in China often seek validation from systems such as competitive exams and secure jobs, which can become a measure of self-worth. He argues that it is more beneficial to seek meaning and understanding from others to better understand oneself. Xiang has also introduced terms to describe current social dynamics, such as "floating," which he uses to describe people working tirelessly just to survive, and "the nearby," which refers to the often-overlooked space between the self and the world. Xiang believes that Chinese society is at a pivotal moment, with people searching for meaning amid rapid social and economic change. His views have been widely shared on platforms like RedNote, where users have praised his ability to address real-life dilemmas without offering empty reassurances. One user noted that Xiang consistently approaches issues from the perspective of the vulnerable and encourages people to engage with life actively. Another highlighted his ability to discuss complex challenges in an accessible way. Born in 1972, Xiang came of age during a time of major transformation in China, as the country moved from the aftermath of Mao Zedong's rule toward economic growth and globalization. He witnessed the rise of Wenzhou as an industrial hub and the emergence of small business owners. Xiang attributes much of the anxiety among young people to two key forces: the property market and the higher education system. The property boom has linked families' sense of security to the value of their homes, while the rapid expansion of university enrollment has intensified competition. He argues that this has led to a common path to success: obtaining a good degree, securing a stable job, getting married, and buying a home. Youth unemployment in China reached 21.3% before the government stopped publishing the data in mid-2023. Those with "good jobs" are often anxious about losing them, and online discussions frequently focus on long working hours, toxic office environments, and the "curse of 35," a cutoff age for job advertisements after which it is harder to find new employment. Xiang acknowledges that discussing these issues can be politically sensitive in China, but he believes it is essential for academics to describe and manage these challenges. His popularity has grown, and he has been described by some as an "influencer" who encourages people to think independently and find their own path.