Beijing University Graduate Kicked Out of Alumni Group for Pursuing Career in Traditional Chinese Bone-Setting

Zhang's journey into bone-setting began after he underwent two surgeries and was bedridden for a period due to a waist problem. It was during this time that he discovered the benefits of traditional Chinese bonesetting, which helped him recover and eventually led him to learn the techniques himself. As he began to practice bonesetting, he faced criticism and skepticism from some of his former classmates, who questioned his decision to pursue a career in a field that is not widely recognized in mainstream medicine. The criticism ultimately led to Zhang being removed from his college alumni group chat.

Despite the initial backlash, Zhang persevered and continued to develop his skills as a bonesetter. He combined traditional techniques with modern medical knowledge and began to build a successful practice in Beijing. His patients reported significant improvements in their conditions, and his business flourished, with some patients willing to pay as much as 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,400 USD) for a single session. However, Zhang's success was not without controversy, as some people accused him of being a "charlatan" or a "quack," and he faced accusations of being a "north strong and south weak" (a Chinese idiom that refers to someone who is physically strong but lacking in intellectual or cultural pursuits).

The controversy surrounding Zhang's career choice has sparked a heated debate about the legitimacy and effectiveness of traditional Chinese bone-setting. On one side, there are those who categorically dismiss bone-setting as a fraudulent practice, asserting that it lacks the scientific basis and efficacy of modern medical practices. On the other side, there are proponents who defend it, arguing that traditional practices have their own merits and can offer valuable, albeit different, health benefits compared to conventional medicine. At the heart of the controversy lies a deeper question: Should individuals be recognized and respected for their professional choices, even if those choices lie outside the mainstream or challenge prevailing norms?

This debate extends beyond the realm of personal career decisions, touching upon broader societal attitudes towards traditional versus modern medicine. It also prompts a reflection on the criteria by which we evaluate the legitimacy and effectiveness of medical practices. In an era where holistic and alternative therapies are gaining recognition for their potential to complement conventional treatments, the discussion around bone-setting and similar traditional practices serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between cultural heritage, health care, and personal choice. Furthermore, this controversy highlights the need for open dialogue and education about various medical traditions. By fostering a more inclusive understanding of different healing practices, societies can work towards a more integrated and patient-centered approach to health care.

The incident has also sparked a heated debate in society, with many people expressing support for the graduate's career choice. Many commenters have emphasized the importance of respecting people's career choices, regardless of their background or education. A user on social media platform Weibo wrote: "Why can't we just support each other's choices? Is it because you think it's beneath you?" The post has garnered thousands of likes and comments, with many netizens weighing in on the importance of respecting people's career choices. The controversy has also highlighted the need for greater understanding and acceptance of non-traditional professions in Chinese society. Today, Zhang's annual income exceeds one million yuan, and he has become a respected figure in the field of traditional Chinese medicine, helping patients alleviate their suffering through the ancient art of bonesetting.