Part 3/14:
The Chinese government’s rationale for such censorship is rooted in a desire to combat what they perceive as harmful Western influences, undermining traditional values and societal norms. They aim to curb romantic fantasy content that could lead women to develop unrealistic romantic expectations, which may, in their view, destabilize social cohesion. This aligns with the broader cultural crackdown, which extends to banning numerous genres—ranging from fantasy involving reincarnation and magic, to stories centered on gay romance, loneliness, or themes of rebellion and dissent.