Saturday, February 21, 2009

I fear the government



The Chinese government, in some ways, rules through fear. I heard a reporter in China speak about about all the things he worries about, and I almost don't even want to write this post. They rule absolutely and have no qualms about breaking laws or keeping things under-wraps. Being a journalist in China is a difficult job. The government is constantly watching you to ensure that you do not shed the government in a bad light. Although, whether the government likes it or not China is becoming more western and more democratic. New ways of communicating, like blogs for instance, make it hard for the government to control what gets leaked out. There have been stories such as the BMW case (the government banned any discussion on it but you can still type it into google and find stuff) and many others that are reaching more and more Zhonggouren (Chines people), despite the government's efforts. In my opinion there are two major pressures being put on the government to change. 
The first is China's rapid modernization. As China becomes a modern nation there is a need for a modern government. The government cannot hide the problems of its country forever. Crimes could be anything from environmental  to corrupt officials. The fast pace, constant communicating world that is now emerging will show the true colors of the Chinese government. The demands put on it by the business world also require a more modern government. China is no longer communist, the government, to a certain extent, does not control industry. Capitalism reigns somewhat free, especially in mega-cities like Shanghai. Pressures due to modernization are forcing the government to be more laissez-faire and      
democratic. 
The second major pressure comes from the young people of China. Their fascination with Western cultural is evident all throughout China. Westernization has begun in China. There are T.V. shows the are 100% copies of American T.V. shows. Shows like American Idol, Ugly Betty, and even The Price is Right, all have Chinese counter-parts. The list goes on, from movies to models, and fashion, the new generation has a need or want to become more western. The models considered the most beautiful in China are those with round eyes, who look more Western. I believe that this fascination with Western culture will be the driving force towards China becoming more democratic. This new generation is very different than the ones that came before. The new face of China, I think, will be a different China than the world has ever seen. 
Westernization and modernization are already twisting the arm of the Communist government. I believe China is on its way to becoming a democracy. Many Chinese Professors speak openly about the need for China to Democratize. The answer lies in the generation that is about to take over all the jobs and businesses in Zhonguo. 

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