The Chinese Online Youth Subculture of the "Electronic Wooden Fish" A "Lying Flat" or A "Self-salvation ?"

Abstract: With the rapid development of the Internet, many products have undergone digitalization. The electronic wooden fish, for example, represents a virtual rendition of a religious instrument. In contemporary times, many Chinese youths encounter difficulties in coping with the intense competition prevalent in school entrance examinations and job markets. Also, their limited social recognition inhibits them from fully expressing their opinions in reality. Consequently, resorting to the electronic wooden fish serves as an outlet for these individuals. The youth tend to use the Internet as a means to alleviate stress, thereby giving rise to an online subculture among them. This article delves into the causes and effects of knocking on the virtual wooden fish. By collecting data from three social media platforms in China and conducting thorough analysis, it concludes by identifying three motivations behind knocking on the electronic wooden fish: seeking spiritual merits, relaxation purposes, and sharing experiences with others. These incentives can be explained through various aspects such as cultural symbolism within Chinas context, serving as a tool for decompression, and contributing to self-identity formation among users. Ultimately, this article argues that embracing the subculture surrounding Electronic wooden fish signifies Chinese youths pursuit of self-salvation, rather than lying flat.