Die Hölle auf Erden

In China, millions of textiles, shoes, toys, and household appliances are produced for export under inhumane conditions. Modern factories encompass production sites, warehouses, and guarded accommodations for workers, with workweeks often exceeding 100 hours. Attempts to organize strikes or demand better working conditions are met with brutal repression. The authors traveled through China for two years, offering a perspective that contrasts with those advocating for a "policy of openness." Charles Reeves and Xi-Xuanwou express solidarity with those resisting the onslaught of rampant capitalism, forced proletarianization, and the erosion of traditional social ties. The voices of the people they encountered are varied: some are defiant, others resigned, and many reflect on their experiences with a mix of personal and scholarly insights. They address issues related to China's economy, sociology, history, politics, urbanization, transportation, environmental protection, AIDS, and family planning. This work contributes to the human rights debate while presenting an alternative viewpoint from the grassroots level. Charles Reeve and Xi-Xuanwou reside in Paris and have previously published works on capitalism in China and the cultural revolution.