The online relationship between the US and China involves mutual caricature. Chinese users see a US defined by crime and homelessness, while US users see a hyper-modern, problem-free China. Both sides are consuming and obsessed with highly skewed imagery of the other.

Online, there is 'Cool China'—a futuristic, creative nation—and 'Real China,' which includes youth unemployment and economic struggles. Western audiences overwhelmingly consume the former, filtering out the grim realities that circulate within China's own internet.

The "Chinamaxxing" cultural trend has two distinct streams: the consumption of authentic short-form videos from China showing daily life, and Western-produced content where creators parody or adopt these Chinese aesthetics, like Tai Chi or drinking Qingdao beer.

A growing meme suggests China is becoming "hot" and "in," capturing the Western imagination with its futuristic cities and unique online culture. This cultural shift, amplified by influencers, positions China as a new center of gravity for trends, potentially supplanting the long-held cultural influence of Japan and Korea.

Despite America's high standard of living, decades of wage stagnation have created a national psychology of pessimism. Conversely, China's explosive wage growth, even from a lower base, fosters optimism. This psychological dimension, driven by the *trajectory* of wealth, is a powerful and often overlooked political force.

The online portrayal of China has fundamentally changed. A decade ago, it was dominated by content from Western expatriates. Post-COVID, this has been largely replaced by content from Chinese nationals, shifting the perspective and control of the narrative to local creators.

China's aggressive adoption of AI and robotics has led to high youth unemployment alongside cheap, high-quality services. This scenario, sustained by family savings and cultural homogeneity, may offer a blueprint for how Western societies could function in a post-AI world with fewer traditional jobs.

While the US diminishes its global standing through internal political chaos and attacks on institutions like science and universities, China is capitalizing on the void. The rise of globally recognized Chinese consumer brands like TikTok and BYD helps position China as a more stable and reliable international partner.

A viral social media trend of Western youth adopting Chinese lifestyle habits reflects a growing disillusionment with American culture and a nuanced view of China. This 'China maxing' phenomenon shows an ability to appreciate Chinese culture (food, fashion, wellness) as distinct from the country's political system, representing a significant evolution in soft power dynamics.