Julian Dibbell’s article “The Life of the Chinese Gold Farmer” explores the complex world of gold farming and virtual economies, focusing on Chinese players who earn virtual currency in games and sell it for real money. With clear reporting and cultural insight, Dibbell examines how these online laborers reshape perceptions of work, value, and the global gaming economy. You can read the full article here. This excerpt is shared under fair use for educational and non-commercial purposes. All rights to the original content belong to Julian Dibbell and The New York Times Magazine.