Chronicling the post-1980 generation

Lawyer fined for revealing pseudonymous author was JK Rowling

China Daily's top 10 books of 2013

Between the influence of Western culture and disruption of core values in China, the post-1980 generation are conflicted about materialism, their own values and political attitudes.

They love luxury brands and are drawn to conspicuous consumption.

The book summarizes that during the transition of China, this generation is confident about the country's future but not so satisfied with society and their current situation. They hope to change their future by their own efforts but can't escape the bigger forces in society.

Most university students believe the "Chinese Dream" put forward by President Xi Jinping, applies to them. They don't consider it an empty slogan or a concept that's the sole realm of the elites. More than 60 percent agree that to realize the "Chinese Dream" of national rejuvenation, one needs first make one's own dreams come true.

About one-third of recent university graduates will continue education rather than hunt for a job because of rising employment pressures. The lessening value of degrees means even some top university graduates have to accept jobs with low salaries.

In 2013, the employment rate of university graduates who were born to rural families was the lowest - 69.5 percent - compared with other groups. They are in a disadvantaged position in the job market because of their families' poor financial status and their lack of social and communication skills.

"It's better if all research centers and institutions can cooperate and share one database to carry out studies on young people. That would save money and energy because some studies overlap," Li says.