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Shanghai auto technician Wang Hongjun hammered home the reality of a factory worker's lot in life. The NPC deputy was speaking on behalf of 200 million migrant workers with his tongue planted firmly in his cheek. "A survey was conducted in Shanghai where interviewees were asked if they wanted to be a factory worker. One percent of all people canvassed said YES," Wang said, raising his voice for dramatic effect. "But I can tell you, only a fraction of that 1 percent are telling the truth." I've met colorful people like Wang all over China. They are cynical yet warmhearted, plain spoken but smart, and they have razor-sharp wit. And many of them are confined to work in factories. In the year 2008, during a golden age of scientific advancement, there are better ways for human beings to spend their time mindlessly slapping tags on fluffy toys - 10 hours a day, six days a week. Wang is a top technician but also represents manual factory workers, who are China's most important natural resource. Their energy is powering China's economic boom, and their muscle is turning the wheel of the world's factory. But does their unskilled labor give their life meaning? At school, did they tell their friends: "When I grow up I want to work in a factory making socks?" Did you? Factory work has always been a stepping-stone from farm life to the city and a modern life. It's been happening for centuries, but today, with our space-age technology, it's outdated. Earning 1,200 yuan ($169) per month working in a factory is better than a pittance on a farm, but as Wang points out, it's not a dream career. There should be better ways to earn your rice. | 
