Why Chinese youth are turning to an 84-year-old Cambridge professor for support

Eighty-four-year-old Cambridge University professor Alan Macfarlane, a British anthropologist and historian, has gained unexpected popularity among Chinese youth on social media. He addresses his audience in Chinese, often beginning with "ni hao," and thoughtfully answers questions submitted in comments. In a recent video, Macfarlane discussed the difficulty young people face in forming genuine friendships. This phenomenon highlights a surprising connection between an elderly academic and a younger demographic seeking guidance and support.