Leslie T. Chang: The voices of China's workers

The video explores the complex realities of globalization, focusing on Chinese factory workers. It challenges the narrative of Western exploitation, highlighting workers' motivations and ambitions. Through personal stories, it reveals their desire for education and better opportunities. The video also discusses the alienation in factory work and the economic calculations workers make. It concludes with reflections on personal connections and the impact of globalization on workers' lives.

What is the common narrative about Western demand and Chinese factories?

• Western demand improves Chinese workers' conditions.

• Chinese factories are independent of Western demand.

• Chinese factories only produce for local markets.

• Western demand leads to Chinese worker exploitation.

What motivates Chinese workers to leave their homes for factory jobs?

• To avoid family responsibilities.

• To escape poor living conditions.

• To become famous.

• To earn money, learn new skills, and see the world.

What is a common misconception about Chinese factory workers' living conditions?

• They live in luxury apartments.

• Their conditions are worse than rural China.

• They have no interest in improving their lives.

• They are content with their current situation.

How do Chinese workers view the products they make?

• They are deeply connected to them.

• They are indifferent to who buys them.

• They are proud of every product.

• They wish to own every product they make.

What did Min's sister say about the value of Coach bags?

• They are not worth much to her community.

• They are the most desired items.

• They are only valuable in America.

• They are highly valued by everyone.

What is the significance of the Coach purse given to the narrator?

• It symbolizes economic ties.

• It represents personal connections and memories.

• It is a sign of wealth.

• It is a token of gratitude.

What do Chinese workers prioritize over better living conditions?

• Better food.

• Higher wages.

• Education and learning opportunities.

• More leisure time.

What change did the narrator observe in the workers' lives over two years?

• A shift to rural living.

• No significant change.

• A general upward trajectory.

• A decline in living standards.

What is the largest migration in history according to the transcript?

• African migration to Europe.

• European migration to Australia.

• Chinese workers moving to cities.

• Migration to America.

What is the main message of the narrator's talk?

• Chinese workers are exploited by Western demand.

• Chinese workers are faceless masses.

• Chinese workers are motivated and seek personal growth.

• Chinese workers are content with their current situation.