Are there fewer busy-work jobs in China? If so, why? It's an interesting assertion, but human nature tends to be universal.

It could be a side effect of China pursuing more markets, having more industry, and not financializing/profit-optimizing everything. Their economy isn't universally better but in a broad sense they seem more focused on tangible material results, less on rent-seeking.

Could argue there are more. Lots of loss making SOEs in China.

less money, less adult daycare

As China’s population gets older and more middle class is this shifting to be more like America?

I really don’t know and am curious.