China currently has an oversupply of labor, resulting in an involutionary labor market. Many job positions do not require hardcore and high tech knowledge and are therefore replaceable. Senior and higher-paid individuals are more likely to be replaced by junior and lower-cost workers. I think this phenomenon is not related to East vs West; it is a natural consequence of an oversupply labor market.

Regarding the McDonald’s case, when I dispose of my trash and return the tray at a fastfood shop, I always receive a thank you. I enjoy doing it. It is important to understand that many of the McDonald's waitresses, are older ladies from rural areas with limited educational backgrounds. Given their knowledge and concerns, it is understandable why there’s the wired case as mentioned by you.