Tibet in Babylon: Thinking about Tibet

Sneeky but significant change in British policy on Tibet

2008-11-25T09:58:00.003-07:00

The New York Times published this article today (25/11/08). The action has been out for about a month, but few press sources have said much about it. The article points out an interesting secondary impact of the global financial crisis: China's ability to dictate terms of any assistance it may provide to Western nations and that impact on how such countries pursue agendas that reflect Tibet's autonomous agenda.

THE financial crisis is going to do more than increase unemployment, bankruptcy and homelessness. It is also likely to reshape international alignments, sometimes in ways that we would not expect.

As Western powers struggle with the huge scale of the measures needed to revive their economies, they have turned increasingly to China. Last month, for example, Gordon Brown, the British prime minister, asked China to give money to the International Monetary Fund, in return for which Beijing would expect an increase in its voting share.

Now there is speculation that a trade-off for this arrangement involved a major shift in the British position on Tibet, whose leading representatives in exile this weekend called on their leader, the Dalai Lama, to stop sending envoys to Beijing — bringing the faltering talks between China and the exiles to a standstill.

The exiles’ decision followed an announcement on Oct. 29 by David Miliband, the British foreign secretary, that after almost a century of recognizing Tibet as an autonomous entity, Britain had changed its mind. Mr. Miliband said that Britain had decided to recognize Tibet as part of the People’s Republic of China. He even apologized that Britain had not done so earlier.

Until that day, the British had described Tibet as autonomous, with China having a “special position” there. This formula did not endorse the Tibetan claim to independence. But it meant that in the British view China’s control over Tibet was limited to a condition once known as suzerainty, somewhat similar to administering a protectorate. Britain, alone among major powers, had exchanged official agreements with the Tibetan government before the Chinese takeover in 1951, so it could scarcely have said otherwise unless it was to vitiate those agreements.

After the People’s Republic of China joined the United Nations in 1971, British politicians refrained from referring to their country’s recognition of Tibet’s autonomy to avoid embarrassing Beijing. But that didn’t make it less significant. It remained the silent but enduring legal basis for 30 years of talks between the Dalai Lama and Beijing, in which the Tibetans have called only for autonomy and not independence — a position that a conference of Tibetan exiles in India reaffirmed on Saturday.

Mr. Miliband described the British position as an anachronism and a colonial legacy. It certainly emerged out of a shabby episode in colonial history, Francis Younghusband’s cavalier invasion of Tibet in 1903. But the British description of Tibet’s status in the era before the modern nation-state was more finely tuned than the versions claimed by Beijing or many exiles, and it was close to the findings of most historians.

Britain’s change of heart risks tearing up a historical record that frames the international order and could provide the basis for resolving China’s dispute with Tibet. The British government may have thought the issue of no significance to Britain’s current national interests and so did not submit it to public debate. But the decision has wider implications. India’s claim to a part of its northeast territories, for example, is largely based on the same agreements — notes exchanged during the Simla convention of 1914, which set the boundary between India and Tibet — that the British appear to have just discarded. That may seem minor to London, but it was over those same documents that a major war between India and China was fought in 1962, as well as a smaller conflict in 1987.

The British concession to China last month was buried within a public statement calling on Beijing to grant autonomy in Tibet, leading some to accuse the British government of hypocrisy. It is more worrying if it was a miscalculation. The statement was released two days before the Dalai Lama’s envoys began the eighth round of talks with Beijing on their longstanding request for greater autonomy, apparently because the British believed — or had been told — that their giveaway to Beijing would relax the atmosphere and so encourage China to make concessions to the Dalai Lama.

The result was the opposite. On Nov. 10, China issued a damning attack on the exile leader, saying his autonomy plan amounted to ethnic cleansing, disguised independence and the reintroduction of serfdom and theocracy. The only thing that China will henceforth discuss with the exiles is the Dalai Lama’s personal status, meaning roughly which luxury residence he can retire to in Beijing.

The official press in China has gleefully attributed European concessions on Tibet to the financial crisis. “Of course these European countries are at this time not collectively changing their tune because their conscience has gotten the better of them,” announced The International Herald Leader, a government-owned paper in Beijing, on Nov. 7. It added that the financial crisis “has made it impossible for them not to consider the ‘cost problem’ in continuing to ‘aid Tibetan independence’ and anger China. After all, compared to the Dalai, to as quickly as possible pull China onto Europe’s rescue boat is even more important and urgent.”

Britain’s concession could be China’s most significant achievement on Tibet since American support for Tibetan guerillas was ended before Nixon’s visit to Beijing. Including China in global decision-making is welcome, but Western powers should not rewrite history to get support in the financial crisis. It may be more than banks and failed mortgages that are sold off cheap in the rush to shore up ailing economies.

Robert Barnett, the director of the Modern Tibetan Studies Program at Columbia, is the author of “Lhasa: Streets With Memories.”

11/19 new info source founded and thoughts about the memo

2008-11-19T23:07:00.008-07:00

1. Found a website, http://www.savetibet.org/, worthy reading.
a) In the Chinese version, there are different columns listed as 'how Chinese view Tibet', 'How Tibetan view Tibet' and 'how other people view Tibet' and so on. Feels it is not only organized but also in a way that respect the different background and approaches.
b) I entered 'how Chinese view Tibet', feel comfortable to look through an article questioning the statement given by Mr. Zhu---see the detail in my previous entry titled with 'stupid Chinese spokesman', in a very moderate attitude. From the abstract of other articles listing there, I feel like reading most of them.
c) I entered 'how Tibetan view Tibet' and every article there looks very attractive. Some of them talk about Tibetan Buddhism, some talk about the roit in Tibet this March, some question the railroad, some analyze the policies from Central government in Tibet...It looks like a wonderland and they are all in Chinese, which would make my reading way more easier and faster. I am looking forward to spending lots of time reading them.
d) Found an article, in English version, about the Tibet in Exile special meeting inside report, which somehow doesn't show up in the Google search result. I don't have time to read it today, but noticed the highlighted 'no violence' and so on. I will come back with more detail.
e) Chinese version and English version is very different, almost shares no similarities. All the things I mentioned above I couldn't find in the English version. There is way more political related news in English version and a PDF icon for the inside magazine. From the glance of the inside magazine, my affection for this site faded because it is in a way I am exactly against---things are complex so there is no bad guy or good guy given the whole picture. But anyway, I'll get the most out of this site.

2. Found a blog, http://david.pengfamily.net/?p=620, by searching the title of the memo in Chinese.
To my great surprise, this is a very professional looking blog, the entry I read was full with quote, from history, from different authors, from different sources with dates, names, and sounded very academic. A glance of the entries there made me feel happier---more academic question/critic/analysis entries listed there waiting for people who care enough to know. I will definitely read more from this blog.

3. Search on Google
a) English, no updates about the Tibet in Exile special meeting
b) English, Chinese Central government has the delegation touring around the world talking about Tibetan culture and 'Tibet has been one part of China for 700 years', no matter whether it is true or not, it has nothing to do with Tibetan 's desire to get independence, and most importantly, it contributes nothing to solve the current problem.
c) English, stupid Mr. Zhu said Beijing is still open to have talks with Dalai Lama. I won't talk to this kind of stupid person since it is only wasting my time, look into my previous post about him, oh, men, I am mad.
d) Chinese, one BBS link had the title of the memo in its content, and one comment about 10) Regulation on population migration in IV BASIC NEEDS OF TIBETANS of the memo. But when I click the link, it showed an error msg that the thread has been removed or deleted. Whatever. Other Chinese sources are not from mainland China.

4. Thoughts about the memo of genuine autonomy.
I found the Chinese version of the memo about genuine autonomy. Reading the native language does help me understand it better.
It is well-written, well-organized, well-developed document, based on articles from Chinese constitution and Law on Regional National Autonomy (LRNA) of China. My thoughts are:

a) Confusion
in IV BASIC NEEDS OF TIBETANS of the memo,
6) Utilisation of Natural Resources, 'only the nationality of the autonomous region shall have the legal authority to transfer or lease land, except land owned by the state. In the same manner, the autonomous region must have the independent authority to formulate and implement developmental plans concurrent to the state plans.'---as far as I know, all the lands are owned by the state, so what is the land Tibetan are talking about here? Maybe I need to find more info about the land ownership policy of China.
9) Public Security, 'The Constitution (Article 120) and LRNA (Article 24) recognise the importance of local involvement and authorise autonomous areas to organise their security within "the military system of the State and practical needs and with the approval of the State Council."' ---it sounds dangerous. They want to have military army?
10) Regulation on population migration ---I understand the points being said and I think it is reasonable, but it really doesn't make sense to block the Han migration! People are going to the places where the money could make profits. I agree that currently the policy provides subsidy or something like that to encourage Han to go to Tibet, but even if it stops doing so, people would still come to do business. If Tibet decides to make the environment hostile to Han people or to business development, sure, people would stop migration, but what's point then?
V APPLICATION OF A SINGLE ADMINISTRATION FOR THE TIBETAN NATIONALITY IN THE PRC 'The LRNA recognises the principle that boundaries of national autonomous areas may need to be modified. The need for the application of the fundamental principles of the Constitution on regional autonomy through respect of the integrity of the Tibetan nationality is not only totally legitimate, but the administrative changes that may be required to achieve this in no way violate constitutional principles. '---It says all the Tibetan should be managed under the same government and so on, I totally agree. But the situation is there are parts of other provinces that Tibetan are living, for example, some area in the earthquake area in Sichuan province. Does Tibetan people want to expand the boundary of Tibet into such areas, as Dalai Lama wrote in his book? I sincerely don't think it is possible at all.

b) Suggestion
There are many places I suggest the author to list some numbers, some facts to give the audience some idea about the comparison about what it is and what it should be, and in my opinion it would make the understanding easier and it is easier to find the rationality and sympathy among people, who, most of the time, are not blind, but just don't know.
Especially, 3) Religion 'The normal practice to hold public teachings and the empowerment of large gatherings is covered by this freedom and the state should not interfere in religious practices and traditions, such as the relationship between a teacher and his disciple, management of monastic institutions, and the recognition of reincarnations.' These sound totally legitimate but is listed here as the basic need. So I really want to know what the current problems are, how severe the problem is, what's the reaction from the Central Government when this issue was came up with before, and so on.
And 7) Economic Development and Trade 'The Constitution also recognises the principle of autonomy in the administration and management of finances (Article 117, and LRNA Article 32). ' Trent said from what he saw, Han benefits a lot from the economic development but the Tibetan people are not. I really like to see the related policies, or statistics figures about how the economy benefits different group, which would make the problems way much clear since the economy development is the biggest card the Central government is playing to say that the majority of Tibetan people are happy.
10) Regulation on population migration as I said in the Confusion part, if the author could put some number here, like the Han migration rate increased x% recently and x% local business is occupied by Han, or something like that, I am sure people would understand why it is the basic need, instead of feeling uncomfortable by the thought.

c) Frustrated that the effort and development from Central Government is NOT mentioned at all. Instead, it says that 'The Tibetan people remain one of the most economically backward regions within the PRC.' in 7) Economic Development and Trade, and 'The existing health system fails to adequately cover the needs of the rural Tibetan population. ' in 8) Public Health. There are lots of areas very poor and lots of areas don't have healthy coverage. China government poured, POURED money into Tibet, although the attitude is stupid, the positive consequence is SOLID! Wouldn't it be nice if the author just admitted the contribution of Central Government a bit? But I also think I can understand if the most important need can not be satisfied, all the other good aspects are deliberately ignored. But still!! The progress is solid and obvious!!

OK, too much to read, too much to write, and too little time to do it. This entry covers the daily news purpose and summarized my thoughts on the memo, which I said I would post. Feel good to fulfill what I wanted. Friday i will sure come back with more updates, or more thoughts from reading the background.

11/17 News

2008-11-17T22:05:00.006-07:00

Since this week is the Tibetan in Exile special meeting week, I decide to search around and post something every day. Here goes the news I found today that is worthy posting.

1. Excerpt from <Crunch time for Tibetan cause>, BBC
By Penny Spiller
Monday, November 17, 2008
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7727791.stm

As many as 500 exiled Tibetan leaders are meeting in the Indian hill town of Dharmsala this week to discuss the future of their fight for their homeland.

The "brain-storming session" could lead to a more hard-line strategy, Tsering Tashi, the Dalai Lama's representative in London, admits.

"It's possible they will push for outright independence," he told the BBC. "Tibetans have a right to independence. Our history is evidence of that."

But one aspect will not change, he stressed. "The Tibetan struggle will not want to take a violent stance."

The meeting comes at a time of crisis for the exiled Tibetans and their leadership, says Tibetan analyst Robert Barnett, of Columbia University in New York.

China's aggressive response to any moves by the Tibetan cause has led to divisions and dissension among the exiles, he says.

"China realises it's on a winning streak. The longer it can go on being aggressive, the more the exiles split, the more it produces dissenters and the more the Dalai Lama is pressured to make compromises.

"The best outcome of this meeting, in the short term, is that they overcome the divisions. It will be quite impressive if they produce some unity."

Many Tibetans believe any criticism of the Dalai Lama's strategy is criticism of His Holiness himself.

This has made it difficult for a younger, more activist generation to have their calls for full independence taken seriously.

Tsering Palden, head of the New York branch of the Tibetan Youth Congress, which is pushing for full independence, believes there will be a "hot debate" next week.

"There are some people who blindly believe everything the Dalai Lama says. It's very important during this special meeting to make them aware that the 'middle way' is not working. Then, I think they will agree with us," he said.

"Our strategy is to educate Tibetans around the world, to make them more politically aware and to make sure that our voice continues to be heard on the global stage," he said.

"We know this will take many years, possibly generations, but nothing lasts forever. We believe times will change; China will change. Already we see people in China who are sympathetic to our cause."

Another, perhaps unspoken, issue at the heart of this meeting is the question of a successor to the Dalai Lama.

The Tibetan leader is now 73 and has suffered bouts of ill health. In September, he was hospitalised for four days with stomach pain.

Last year he said he was considering breaking with centuries of tradition by choosing a successor, rather than awaiting rebirth which can take many years.

There is reason for his caution. When he picked a six-year-old boy in 1995 to be the Panchen Lama, the second most important figure in Tibetan Buddhist, Beijing rejected the choice and selected a pro-Chinese replacement.

And, he says, there is a fear his death will lead to a disintegration of Tibetan society - with major unrest inside the region, and radical groups freed from the constraints of non-violence.

Tsering Palden hopes that a possible successor will emerge from next week's meeting.

"The Dalai Lama has a special place in the hearts of every Tibetan. If we can find someone who is endorsed by the Dalai Lama himself, then it will make the transition of leadership, when it happens, easier," he says.

2. Excerpt from <Meeting of Tibetan exiles to discuss future opens>, Washington Post

By ASHOK SHARMA

The Associated Press
Monday, November 17, 2008; 2:46 AM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/16/AR2008111600463.html

On Sunday, the Dalai Lama's envoys to the last round of talks with Beijing said in a statement that they had presented China with a detailed plan on how Tibetans could meet their autonomy needs within the framework of the Chinese Constitution.

Their plan says the constitution "contains fundamental principles on autonomy and self-government" that would allow Beijing to "respond to the uniqueness of the Tibet situation."

It calls for the protection for the Tibetan language and culture, restrictions on non-Tibetans moving into Tibet and the rights of Tibetans to create their own government that would "have the power to execute and administer decisions autonomously."

But China apparently rejected the plan and recent "Chinese statements distort the position and proposal we have outlined in our paper," the statement said.

The Dalai Lama has declined to offer his views on the future of the movement because he said he did not want to tilt the debate in any particular direction.

Karma Chophel, speaker of parliament in the government-in-exile, said more than 8,000 of 17,000 Tibetans recently surveyed in Tibet about their view said they would follow any decision by the Dalai Lama. More than 5,000 said they wanted Tibetan independence, more than twice the number who wanted to continue with the current approach, he said.

Chophel declined to offer any details about how or when the survey was conducted, but it almost certainly would have had to be completed in secrecy.

3. Nothing new I could find from NYT or general Google search.

4. In the aspect of Chinese media, by searching 'People's Daily' and 'China Daily', no mater English or Chinese, I couldn't find anything about this event...
FTchinese doesn't have updates, found a old article, well-organized with middle way approach, questioning Chinese media attitude toward the riot in Tibet this March, and no surprise, found some stupid and disturbing comments about it, as Luo Yonghao would put as people with 'disabled brain'.
Found something in Chinese from BBCchinese, looks like similar to the translation of the article I put in point1. The attitude from Chinese government in this article is 'The Tibetan in Exile meeting is useless because they are a small group of Tibetan people and can not represent the interests of the overall Tibetan people'---The same saying for hundreds of years. And the Central government show the economic, Medicare, cultural conservation development and some Tibetan people talking about how the life is changing upwards, to prove that the overall Tibetan people like the current situation there, which could not persuade me. But where could I find how the most of Tibetan people think? Read more is probably the only way, before I could go there.

Today is the second day of the meeting and I assumed I would see some news about the content of the meeting, but maybe it is a close door meeting and we would only know something concrete when they decide to. So tomorrow I will post some history of Tibet and some thoughts about reading the memo, the detailed plan mentioned in the two news excerpt in this entry.

MEMORANDUM ON GENUINE AUTONOMY FOR THE TIBETAN PEOPLE

2008-11-16T18:49:00.002-07:00

From the last entry, the news about the Tibetan exiles meeting and the as usual, opposite statements from two sides towards the memo about 'genuine autonomy', I feel it is a need to post the memo here for readers to have their own opinions and questions. I will read the memo and post my thoughts later next week.

I found the memo from the source of http://www.tibet.net.

(Translated from the original Tibetan)

I INTRODUCTION

Since the renewal of direct contact with the Central Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 2002, extensive discussions have been held between the envoys of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and representatives of the Central Government. In these discussions we have put forth clearly the aspirations of Tibetans. The essence of the Middle Way Approach is to secure genuine autonomy for the Tibetan people within the scope of the Constitution of the PRC. This is of mutual benefit and based on the long-term interest of both the Tibetan and Chinese peoples. We remain firmly committed not to seek separation or independence. We are seeking a solution to the Tibetan problem through genuine autonomy, which is compatible with the principles on autonomy in the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The protection and development of the unique Tibetan identity in all its aspects serves the larger interest of humanity in general and those of the Tibetan and Chinese people in particular.

During the seventh round of talks in Beijing on 1 and 2 July 2008, the Vice Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and the Minister of the Central United Front Work Department, Mr. Du Qinglin, explicitly invited suggestions from His Holiness the Dalai Lama for the stability and development of Tibet. The Executive Vice Minister of the Central United Front Work Department, Mr. Zhu Weiqun, further said they would like to hear our views on the degree or form of autonomy we are seeking as well as on all aspects of regional autonomy within the scope of the Constitution of the PRC.

Accordingly, this memorandum puts forth our position on genuine autonomy and how the specific needs of the Tibetan nationality for autonomy and self-government can be met through application of the principles on autonomy of the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China, as we understand them. On this basis, His Holiness the Dalai Lama is confident that the basic needs of the Tibetan nationality can be met through genuine autonomy within the PRC.

The PRC is a multi-national state, and as in many other parts of the world, it seeks to resolve the nationality question through autonomy and the self-government of the minority nationalities. The Constitution of the PRC contains fundamental principles on autonomy and self-government whose objectives are compatible with the needs and aspirations of the Tibetans. Regional national autonomy is aimed at opposing both the oppression and the separation of nationalities by rejecting both Han Chauvinism and local nationalism. It is intended to ensure the protection of the culture and the identity of minority nationalities by powering them to become masters of their own affairs.

To a very considerable extent Tibetan needs can be met within the constitutional principles on autonomy, as we understand them. On several points, the Constitution gives significant discretionary powers to state organs in the decision-making and on the operation of the system of autonomy. These discretionary powers can be exercised to facilitate genuine autonomy for Tibetans in ways that would respond to the uniqueness of the Tibetan situation. In implementing these principles, legislation relevant to autonomy may consequently need to be reviewed or amended to respond to the specific characteristics and needs of the Tibetan nationality. Given good will on both sides, outstanding problems can be resolved within the constitutional principles on autonomy. In this way national unity and stability and harmonious relations between the Tibetan and other nationalities will be established.

II RESPECT FOR THE INTEGRITY OF THE TIBETAN NATIONALITY

Tibetans belong to one minority nationality regardless of the current administrative division. The integrity of the Tibetan nationality must be respected. That is the spirit, the intent and the principle underlying the constitutional concept of national regional autonomy as well as the principle of equality of nationalities.

There is no dispute about the fact that Tibetans share the same language, culture, spiritual tradition, core values and customs, that they belong to the same ethnic group and that they have a strong sense of common identity. Tibetans share a common history and despite periods of political or administrative divisions, Tibetans continuously remained united by their religion, culture, education, language, way of life and by their unique high plateau environment.

The Tibetan nationality lives in one contiguous area on the Tibetan plateau, which they have inhabited for millennia and to which they are therefore indigenous. For purposes of the constitutional principles of national regional autonomy Tibetans in the PRC in fact live as a single nationality all over the Tibetan plateau.

On account of the above reasons, the PRC has recognised the Tibetan nationality as one of the 55 minority nationalities.

III TIBETAN ASPIRATIONS

Tibetans have a rich and distinct history, culture and spiritual tradition all of which form valuable parts of the heritage of humanity. Not only do Tibetans wish to preserve their own heritage, which they cherish, but equally they wish to further develop their culture and spiritual life and knowledge in ways that are particularly suited to the needs and conditions of humanity in the 21st century.

As a part of the multi-national state of the PRC, Tibetans can benefit greatly from the rapid economic and scientific development the country is experiencing. While wanting to actively participate and contribute to this development, we want to ensure that this happens without the people losing their Tibetan identity, culture and core values and without putting the distinct and fragile environment of the Tibetan plateau, to which Tibetans are indigenous, at risk.

The uniqueness of the Tibetan situation has consistently been recognised within the PRC and has been reflected in the terms of the ‘17 Point Agreement’ and in statements and policies of successive leaders of the PRC since then, and should remain the basis for defining the scope and structure of the specific autonomy to be exercised by the Tibetan nationality within the PRC. The Constitution reflects a fundamental principle of flexibility to accommodate special situations, including the special characteristics and needs of minority nationalities.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s commitment to seek a solution for the Tibetan people within the PRC is clear and unambiguous. This position is in full compliance and agreement with paramount leader Deng Xiaoping's statement in which he emphasised that except for independence all other issues could be resolved through dialogue. Whereas, we are committed, therefore, to fully respect the territorial integrity of the PRC, we expect the Central Government to recognise and fully respect the integrity of the Tibetan nationality and its right to exercise genuine autonomy within the PRC. We believe that this is the basis for resolving the differences between us and promoting unity, stability and harmony among nationalities.

For Tibetans to advance as a distinct nationality within the PRC, they need to continue to progress and develop economically, socially and politically in ways that correspond to the development of the PRC and the world as a whole while respecting and nurturing the Tibetan characteristics of such development. For this to happen, it is imperative that the right of Tibetans to govern themselves be recognised and implemented throughout the region where they live in compact communities in the PRC, in accordance with the Tibetan nationality’s own needs, priorities and characteristics.

The Tibetan people's culture and identity can only be preserved and promoted by the Tibetans themselves and not by any others. Therefore, Tibetans should be capable of self-help, self-development and self-government, and an optimal balance needs to be found between this and the necessary and welcome guidance and assistance for Tibet from the Central Government and other provinces and regions of the PRC.

IV BASIC NEEDS OF TIBETANS
Subject Matters of Self-government

1) Language
Language is the most important attribute of the Tibetan people’s identity. Tibetan is the primary means of communication, the language in which their literature, their spiritual texts and historical as well as scientific works are written. The Tibetan language is not only at the same high level as that of Sanskrit in terms of grammar, but is also the only one that has the capability of translating from Sanskrit without an iota of error. Therefore, Tibetan language has not only the richest and best-translated literatures, many scholars even contend that it has also the richest and largest number of literary compositions. The Constitution of the PRC, in Article 4, guarantees the freedom of all nationalities “to use and develop their own spoken and written languages ...”.

In order for Tibetans to use and develop their own language, Tibetan must be respected as the main spoken and written language. Similarly, the principal language of the Tibetan autonomous areas needs to be Tibetan.

This principle is broadly recognised in the Constitution in Article 121, which states, “the organs of self-government of the national autonomous areas employ the spoken and written language or language in common use in the locality.” Article 10 of the Law on Regional National Autonomy (LRNA) provides that these organs “shall guarantee the freedom of the nationalities in these areas to use and develop their own spoken and written languages....”

Consistent with the principle of recognition of Tibetan as the main language in Tibetan areas, the LRNA (Article 36) also allows the autonomous government authorities to decide on “the language used in instruction and enrolment procedures” with regard to education. This implies recognition of the principle that the principal medium of education be Tibetan.

2) Culture
The concept of national regional autonomy is primarily for the purpose of preservation of the culture of minority nationalities. Consequently, the constitution of PRC contains references to cultural preservation in Articles 22, 47 and 119 as also in Article 38 of the LRNA. To Tibetans, Tibetan culture is closely connected to our religion, tradition, language and identity, which are facing threats at various levels. Since Tibetans live within the multinational state of the PRC, this distinct Tibetan cultural heritage needs protection through appropriate constitutional provisions.

3) Religion
Religion is fundamental to Tibetans and Buddhism is closely linked to their identity. We recognise the importance of separation of church and state, but this should not affect the freedom and practice of believers. It is impossible for Tibetans to imagine personal or community freedom without the freedom of belief, conscience and religion. The Constitution recognises the importance of religion and protects the right to profess it. Article 36 guarantees all citizens the right to the freedom of religious belief. No one can compel another to believe in or not to believe in any religion. Discrimination on the basis of religion is forbidden.

An interpretation of the constitutional principle in light of international standard would also cover the freedom of the manner of belief or worship. The freedom covers the right of monasteries to be organised and run according to Buddhist monastic tradition, to engage in teachings and studies, and to enroll any number of monks and nuns or age group in accordance with these rules. The normal practice to hold public teachings and the empowerment of large gatherings is covered by this freedom and the state should not interfere in religious practices and traditions, such as the relationship between a teacher and his disciple, management of monastic institutions, and the recognition of reincarnations.

4) Education
The desire of Tibetans to develop and administer their own education system in cooperation and in coordination with the central government’s ministry of education is supported by the principles contained in the Constitution with regard to education. So is the aspiration to engage in and contribute to the development of science and technology. We note the increasing recognition in international scientific development of the contribution which Buddhist psychology, metaphysics, cosmology and the understanding of the mind is making to modern science.

Whereas, under Article 19 of the Constitution the state takes on the overall responsibility to provide education for its citizens, Article 119 recognises the principle that “[T]he organs of self-government of the national autonomous areas independently administer educational .... affairs in their respective areas...” This principle is also reflected in Article 36 of the LRNA.

Since the degree of autonomy in decision-making is unclear, the point to be emphasised is that the Tibetan need to exercise genuine autonomy with regard to its own nationality’s education and this is supported by the principles of the constitution on autonomy.

As for the aspiration to engage in and contribute to the development of scientific knowledge and technology, the Constitution (Article 119) and the LRNA (Article 39) clearly recognise the right of autonomous areas to develop scientific knowledge and technology.

5) Environment Protection
Tibet is the prime source of Asia's great rivers. It also has the earth's loftiest mountains as well as the world's most extensive and highest plateau, rich in mineral resources, ancient forests, and many deep valleys untouched by human disturbances.

This environmental protection practice was enhanced by the Tibetan people's traditional respect for all forms of life, which prohibits the harming of all sentient beings, whether human or animal. Tibet used to be an unspoiled wilderness sanctuary in a unique natural environment.

Today, Tibet's traditional environment is suffering irreparable damage. The effects of this are especially notable on the grasslands, the croplands, the forests, the water resources and the wildlife.

In view of this, according to Articles 45 and 66 of the LNRA, the Tibetan people should be given the right over the environment and allow them to follow their traditional conservation practices.

6) Utilisation of Natural Resources
With respect to the protection and management of the natural environment and the utilisation of natural resources the Constitution and the LRNA only acknowledge a limited role for the organs of self-government of the autonomous areas (see LRNA Articles 27, 28, 45, 66, and Article 118 of the Constitution, which pledges that the state “shall give due consideration to the interests of [the national autonomous areas]]”. The LRNA recognises the importance for the autonomous areas to protect and develop forests and grasslands (Article 27) and to “give priority to the rational exploitation and utilization of the natural resources that the local authorities are entitled to develop”, but only within the limits of state plans and legal stipulations. In fact, the central role of the State in these matters is reflected in the Constitution (Article 9).

The principles of autonomy enunciated in the Constitution cannot, in our view, truly lead to Tibetans becoming masters of their own destiny if they are not sufficiently involved in decision-making on utilisation of natural resources such as mineral resources, waters, forests, mountains, grasslands, etc.

The ownership of land is the foundation on which the development of natural resources, taxes and revenues of an economy are based. Therefore, it is essential that only the nationality of the autonomous region shall have the legal authority to transfer or lease land, except land owned by the state. In the same manner, the autonomous region must have the independent authority to formulate and implement developmental plans concurrent to the state plans.

7) Economic Development and Trade
Economic Development in Tibet is welcome and much needed. The Tibetan people remain one of the most economically backward regions within the PRC.

The Constitution recognises the principle that the autonomous authorities have an important role to play in the economic development of their areas in view of local characteristics and needs (Article 118 of the Constitution, also reflected in LRNA Article 25). The Constitution also recognises the principle of autonomy in the administration and management of finances (Article 117, and LRNA Article 32). At the same time, the Constitution also recognises the importance of providing State funding and assistance to the autonomous areas to accelerate development (Article 122, LRNA Article 22).

Similarly, Article 31 of the LRNA recognises the competence of autonomous areas, especially those such as Tibet, adjoining foreign countries, to conduct border trade as well as trade with foreign countries. The recognition of these principles is important to the Tibetan nationality given the region’s proximity to foreign countries with which the people have cultural, religious, ethnic and economic affinities.

The assistance rendered by the Central Government and the provinces has temporary benefits, but in the long run if the Tibetan people are not self-reliant and become dependent on others it has greater harm. Therefore, an important objective of autonomy is to make the Tibetan people economically self-reliant.

8) Public health
The Constitution enunciates the responsibility of the State to provide health and medical services (Article 21). Article 119 recognises that this is an area of responsibility of the autonomous areas. The LRNA (Article 40) also recognises the right of organs of self-government of the autonomous areas to “make independent decisions on plans for developing local medical and health services and for advancing both modern and the traditional medicine of the nationalities.”

The existing health system fails to adequately cover the needs of the rural Tibetan population. According to the principles of the above-mentioned laws, the regional autonomous organs need to have the competencies and resources to cover the health need of the entire Tibetan population. They also need the competencies to promote the traditional Tibetan medical and astro system strictly according to traditional practice.

9) Public Security
In matters of public security it is important that the majority of security personnel consists of members of the local nationality who understand and respect local customs and traditions.

What is lacking in Tibetan areas is absence of decision-making authority in the hands of local Tibetan officials.

An important aspect of autonomy and self-government is the responsibility for the internal public order and security of the autonomous areas. The Constitution (Article 120) and LRNA (Article 24) recognise the importance of local involvement and authorise autonomous areas to organise their security within "the military system of the State and practical needs and with the approval of the State Council."

10) Regulation on population migration
The fundamental objective of national regional autonomy and self-government is the preservation of the identity, culture, language and so forth of the minority nationality and to ensure that it is the master of its own affairs. When applied to a particular territory in which the minority nationality lives in a concentrated community or communities, the very principle and purpose of national regional autonomy is disregarded if large scale migration and settlement of the majority Han nationality and other nationalities is encouraged and allowed. Major demographic changes that result from such migration will have the effect of assimilating rather than integrating the Tibetan nationality into the Han nationality and gradually extinguishing the distinct culture and identity of the Tibetan nationality. Also, the influx of large numbers of Han and other nationalities into Tibetan areas will fundamentally change the conditions necessary for the exercise of regional autonomy since the constitutional criteria for the exercise of autonomy, namely that the minority nationality “live in compact communities” in a particular territory is changed and undermined by the population movements and transfers. If such migrations and settlements continue uncontrolled, Tibetans will no longer live in a compact community or communities and will consequently no longer be entitled, under the Constitution, to national regional autonomy. This would effectively violate the very principles of the Constitution in its approach to the nationalities issue.

There is precedent in the PRC for restriction on the movement or residence of citizens. There is only a very limited recognition of the right of autonomous areas to work out measures to control “the transient population” in those areas. To us it would be vital that the autonomous organs of self-government have the authority to regulate the residence, settlement and employment or economic activities of persons who wish to move to Tibetan areas from other parts of the PRC in order to ensure respect for and the realisation of the objectives of the principle of autonomy.

It is not our intention to expel the non-Tibetans who have permanently settled in Tibet and have lived there and grown up there for a considerable time. Our concern is the induced massive movement of primarily Han but also some other nationalities into many areas of Tibet, upsetting existing communities, marginalising the Tibetan population there and threatening the fragile natural environment.

11) Cultural, educational and religious exchanges with other countries
Besides the importance of exchanges and cooperation between the Tibetan nationality and other nationalities, provinces, and regions of the PRC in the subject matters of autonomy, such as culture, art, education, science, public health, sports, religion, environment, economy and so forth, the power of autonomous areas to conduct such exchanges with foreign countries in these areas is also recognised in the LRNA (Article 42).

V APPLICATION OF A SINGLE ADMINISTRATION FOR THE TIBETAN NATIONALITY IN THE PRC

In order for the Tibetan nationality to develop and flourish with its distinct identity, culture and spiritual tradition through the exercise of self-government on the above mentioned basic Tibetan needs, the entire community, comprising all the areas currently designated by the PRC as Tibetan autonomous areas, should be under one single administrative entity. The current administrative divisions, by which Tibetan communities are ruled and administered under different provinces and regions of the PRC, foments fragmentation, promotes unequal development, and weakens the ability of the Tibetan nationality to protect and promote its common cultural, spiritual and ethnic identity. Rather than respecting the integrity of the nationality, this policy promotes its fragmentation and disregards the spirit of autonomy. Whereas the other major minority nationalities such as the Uighurs and Mongols govern themselves almost entirely within their respective single autonomous regions, Tibetans remain as if they were several minority nationalities instead of one.

Bringing all the Tibetans currently living in designated Tibetan autonomous areas within a single autonomous administrative unit is entirely in accordance with the constitutional principle contained in Article 4, also reflected in the LRNA (Article 2), that “regional autonomy is practiced in areas where people of minority nationalities live in concentrated communities.” The LRNA describes regional national autonomy as the “basic policy adopted by the Communist Party of China for the solution of the national question in China” and explains its meaning and intent in its Preface:

the minority nationalities, under unified state leadership, practice regional autonomy in areas where they live in concentrated communities and set up organs of self-government for the exercise of the power of autonomy. Regional national autonomy embodies the state’s full respect for and guarantee of the right of the minority nationalities to administer their internal affairs and its adherence to the principle of equality, unity and common prosperity of all nationalities.

It is clear that the Tibetan nationality within the PRC will be able to exercise its right to govern itself and administer its internal affairs effectively only once it can do so through an organ of self-government that has jurisdiction over the Tibetan nationality as a whole.

The LRNA recognises the principle that boundaries of national autonomous areas may need to be modified. The need for the application of the fundamental principles of the Constitution on regional autonomy through respect of the integrity of the Tibetan nationality is not only totally legitimate, but the administrative changes that may be required to achieve this in no way violate constitutional principles. There are several precedents where this has been actually done.

VI THE NATURE AND STRUCTURE OF THE AUTONOMY

The extent to which the right to self-government and self-administration can be exercised on the preceding subject matters largely determines the genuine character of Tibetan autonomy. The task at hand is therefore to look into the manner in which autonomy can be regulated and exercised for it to effectively respond to the unique situation and basic needs of the Tibetan nationality.

The exercise of genuine autonomy would include the right of Tibetans to create their own regional government and government institutions and processes that are best suited to their needs and characteristics. It would require that the People’s Congress of the autonomous region have the power to legislate on all matters within the competencies of the region (that is the subject matters referred to above) and that other organs of the autonomous government have the power to execute and administer decisions autonomously. Autonomy also entails representation and meaningful participation in national decision-making in the Central Government. Processes for effective consultation and close cooperation or joint decision-making between the Central Government and the regional government on areas of common interest also need to be in place for the autonomy to be effective.

A crucial element of genuine autonomy is the guarantee the Constitution or other laws provide that powers and responsibilities allocated to the autonomous region cannot be unilaterally abrogated or changed. This means that neither the Central Government nor the autonomous region’s government should be able, without the consent of the other, to change the basic features of the autonomy.

The parameters and specifics of such genuine autonomy for Tibet that respond to the unique needs and conditions of the Tibetan people and region should be set out in some detail in regulations on the exercise of autonomy, as provided for in Article 116 of the Constitution (enacted in LRNA Article 19) or, if it is found to be more appropriate, in a separate set of laws or regulations adopted for that purpose. The Constitution, including Article 31, provides the flexibility to adopt special laws to respond to unique situations such as the Tibetan one, while respecting the established social, economic and political system of the country.

The Constitution in Section VI provides for organs of self-government of national autonomous regions and acknowledges their power to legislate. Thus Article 116 (enacted in Article 19 of the LRNA) refers to their power to enact “separate regulations in light of the political, economic and cultural characteristics of the nationality or nationalities in the areas concerned.” Similarly, the Constitution recognises the power of autonomous administration in a number of areas (Article 117-120) as well as the power of autonomous governments to apply flexibility in implementing the laws and policies of the Central Government and higher state organs to suit the conditions of the autonomous area concerned (Article 115).

The above-mentioned legal provisions do contain significant limitations to the decision-making authority of the autonomous organs of government. But the Constitution nevertheless recognises the principle that organs of self-government make laws and policy decisions that address local needs and that these may be different from those adopted elsewhere, including by the Central Government.

Although the needs of the Tibetans are broadly consistent with the principles on autonomy contained in the Constitution, as we have shown, their realisation is impeded because of the existence of a number of problems, which makes the implementation of those principles today difficult or ineffective.

Implementation of genuine autonomy, for example, requires clear divisions of powers and responsibilities between the Central Government and the government of the autonomous region with respect to subject matter competency. Currently there is no such clarity and the scope of legislative powers of autonomous regions is both uncertain and severely restricted. Thus, whereas the Constitution intends to recognise the special need for autonomous regions to legislate on many matters that affect them, the requirements of Article 116 for prior approval at the highest level of the Central Government - by the Standing Committee of National People’s Congress (NPC) - inhibit the implementation of this principle of autonomy. In reality, it is only autonomous regional congresses that expressly require such approval, while the congresses of ordinary (not autonomous) provinces of the PRC do not need prior permission and merely report the passage of regulations to the Standing Committee of the NPC “for the record” (Article 100).

The exercise of autonomy is further subject to a considerable number of laws and regulations, according to Article 115 of the Constitution. Certain laws effectively restrict the autonomy of the autonomous region, while others are not always consistent with one another. The result is that the exact scope of the autonomy is unclear and is not fixed, since it is unilaterally changed with the enactment of laws and regulations are higher levels of the state, and even by changes in policy. There is also no adequate process for consultation or for settling differences that arise between the organs of the Central Government and of the regional government with respect to the scope and exercise of autonomy. In practice, the resulting uncertainty limits the initiative of regional authorities and impedes the exercise of genuine autonomy by Tibetans today.

We do not at this stage wish to enter into details regarding these and other impediments to the exercise of genuine autonomy today by Tibetans, but mention them by way of example so that these may be addressed in the appropriate manner in our dialogue in the future. We will continue to study the Constitution and other relevant legal provisions and, when appropriate, will be pleased to provide further analysis of these issues, as we understand them.

VII THE WAY FORWARD

As stated at the beginning of this memorandum, our intention is to explore how the needs of the Tibetan nationality can be met within the framework of PRC since we believe these needs are consistent with the principles of the Constitution on autonomy. As His Holiness the Dalai Lama stated on a number of occasions, we have no hidden agenda. We have no intention at all of using any agreement on genuine autonomy as stepping stone for separation from the PRC.

The objective of the Tibetan Government in Exile is to represent the interests of the Tibetan people and to speak on their behalf. Therefore, it will no longer be needed and will be dissolved once an agreement is reached between us. In fact, His Holiness has reiterated his decision not to accept any political office in Tibet at any time in the future. His Holiness the Dalai Lama, nevertheless, plans to use all his personal influence to ensure such an agreement would have the legitimacy necessary to obtain the support of the Tibetan people.

Given these strong commitments, we propose that the next step in this process be the agreement to start serious discussions on the points raised in this memorandum. For this purpose we propose that we discuss and agree on a mutually agreeable mechanism or mechanisms and a timetable to do so effectively.

DALAI LAMA AIDES REJECT BREAKAWAY ALLEGATIONS

2008-11-16T18:44:00.001-07:00

By Amy Yee in Dharamsala 2008-11-17
http://www.ftchinese.com/story.php?lang=en&storyid=001023120

Envoys of the Dalai Lama have rejected Beijing's accusations that Tibetans are trying to break away from China and expressed deep frustration about recent talks with their Chinese counterparts.

“Our biggest disappointment is the total lack of willingness to seriously reciprocate our very sincere efforts,” said Lodi Gyari, special envoy of the Dalai Lama, at a press conference yesterday in Dharamsala, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Mr Gyari added that he was “not confident” about future talks with Beijing.

“His Holiness has felt that the best way is through dialogue. But China has been uncompromising and unwilling to be responsive,” he said.

Mr Gyari's comments came ahead of a six-day meeting of Tibetan diaspora leaders in Dharamsala that begins today and could signal a turning point in Tibetan politics.

Hundreds of prominent members of the community in exile will discuss the future of the Tibetan people and debate how to advance the Tibetan cause. Officials in the Tibetan government-in-exile, heads of non-governmental organisations, activists, scholars and heads of cultural institutions will attend and draw recommendations for next steps by the end of the week.”

Tsewang Rigzin, president of the Tibetan Youth Congress, said: “Any decision could be the basis for how we go forward.”

However, the Dalai Lama will not attend the special meeting. “His Holiness wants to give Tibetan people the opportunity to express their views. He is neutral,” said Mr Gyari.

Discussions have taken on added urgency in light of widespread pro-Tibet demonstrations in March that prompted an aggressive Chinese crackdown.

Mr Gyari insisted the Dalai Lama sought autonomy within China, not independence. However, his Chinese counterpart maintained that the Dalai Lama harboured a “hidden agenda” for independence.

In an effort to make talks with China transparent, Mr Gyari released the text of a memo, outlining hopes for autonomy, that he presented to Beijing earlier this month. Mr Gyari said China's “misunderstanding and distortion” of the memo prompted the public disclosure.

The memo was drafted after Beijing asked the Tibetan envoys to clarify definitions of autonomy during talks this summer. It requests self-government in religion, language, culture and other areas and underscores “the Dalai Lama's commitment to seek a solution for the Tibetan people within the People's Republic of China”.

Some highlights from 'Top Tech Awards'-Part I

2008-11-16T17:18:00.005-07:00

In the last entry, I talked about my thoughts after reading 'Top Tech Awards' from magazine. And in the entry, I'd like to post some innovations I feel excited or surprised about, among the around 100 innovations listed in the magazine.

Quote the pretext of the 'Best of What's new '08': 'Finally! For decades, we've fantasized about watching paper-thin TVs, soring hundreds of feet with personal jet packs, riding in cars that drive themselves, and regrowing organs. The 21st annual Best of What's New celebrates all of those dreams coming true. Turn the page to learn about these achievements and 96 other breakthroughs that, whether long awaited or completely unexpected, are equally amazing.'

Home Entertainment:
1. Sony XEL-1 OLED TV---3mm thickness, produces stunning colors and the highest contrast possible. Only 11-inch screen now since there is great difficulties in tech to produce larger OLED screen. But Sony promises 27-in models soon. By 2011, 32 inchs or more would be available.
2. Sony BOV-IT1000ES BRAVIA theater system---giant speakers are replaced with thin bars you can hang on the wall. The dimensions of the new design with same sound effect is 22*1*0.5 by inchs.

Auto Tech:
1. 2009 Nissan GT-R---a car under 80 grand whose performance matches that of a $200,000 supercar. Some features:
3.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph
480 horsepower
193 mph as the max speed
twin-clutch system
adjustable shock-absorber system which can stiffen up so this car can feel like a Ferrari F430
videogame-inspried control panel that displays steering angle and brake-pedal pressure
2. Honda FCX CLARITY---the first hydrogen production car; Three-year lease for $600 a month; honda.com
The fuel cell Honda develops on its own produces more energy from a 65 percent smaller space
Nothing comes out of the tailpipe but water vapor.
3. Infiniti Scratch shield---The clear coat contains a synthetic resin that, when activated by daytime heat and sunlight, flows into surface wounds, repairing the damage in anywhere from a day to a week, erase scrapes caused by car washes or stray branches.
4. Ford ECOBOOST Engines---Ford is aming for up to 20 percent cuts in CO2 emisiions by putting EcoBoost engines in 90 percent of its models by 2013.
EcoBoost uses direct-injection and turbocharing to squeeze more power out of smaller, more efficient engines, replacing V8s with V6s and V6s with four0cylinders.

Green Tech:
1. The cleanest walls---requires less energy to make, therefore reduces the greenhouse gases.
85 percent of the material to make this wall are industrial by-products. They just react chemically when mixed with water and bind together into a paste that's poured into sheets.
The oven-free process uses just 20 percent of the energy of the typical method (which spews out 20 billion pounds of greenhouse gases a year).
And its not pricey---costs about the same as high-end drywall.
seriouslmaterials.com
2. Safer kitchens in the developing world---a cookstove that can cut emissions by more than 80 percent and use half as much fuel.
More than half the worlds' population cooks over open fires or small charcoal or biomass stoves. Fuel burn incompletely, producing CO and smoke, causing 1.5 millions deaths a year.
The can-shape new design stove has a precisely measured opening that lets in enough air to fan the flames, yet not enough to cool it and slow down combustion.
From $15; envirofit.org
3. Wind Power new design---the first vertical-axis turbine that can start in slow winds without help from a motor or inefficient scoops or wings.
The Windsprire captures breezes at 30 feet and below. mariahpower.com
4. Plastics from Pig Pee---Urea, a chemical for plastics, that's identical to millions of tons sold every year, now could be filters out from pig urine, instead of produced from fossil fuel.
Equipping the collector nationwide could meet all the US' s urea needs. agroplast.info.

Health:
1. A helmet for your head and spine---in the head first impact, this helmet reduces force on the neck by up to 56 percent
This helmet is the first designed to guide the spine.
In a head-first impact, the top of the head tends to stop abruptly while the torso continues plowing forward, compacting the spinal cord.
With the Pro-Neck-Tor, a traditional outer shell blunts direct force, while an inner shell slides froward along a track, guiding the head down to reduce force on the neck.
The team created a prototype this year and hopes to have a commercial version for football, cycling and other spine-snapping sports soon. pronecktor.com
---since I hit my elbow badly falling off from my bike, I pay attention to cycling more and this news is pleased to know.
2. First 3D printer for crowns and bridges
Technicians sculpt a digital model of the mouth onscreen using a haptic pen that simulates the fell of real was. A 3D printer then produces a resin prototype , which is case in metal fro insertion, all in half the time of conventional methods. sensable.com
---I don't think I understand this totally, but since I really had/will continue long history of dental treatment, this news look encouraging.
3. A microscope on your mobile
In rural areas and developing countries, clinics often lack the equipment and staff for up-close evaluations of malaria, parasites, blood diseases and skin conditions.
The Cellscope is a 5x to 60x microscope attachment for camera phones that takes photos of skin and blood cells and transmits the images to experts for diagnosis.
It was successfully tested in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in August and could be soon used by cancer patients in the US to take white-blood-cell counts at home. blumcenter.berkeley.edu

Too much great stuff were created that I think we are pleased to know and would make the planet a better place to live. I'll post the part II of this about aviation&space, computing, engineering and recreation next Sunday.

Thoughts of 'Top Tech Awards'

2008-11-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

I know this blog is not a suitable place to post this entry---pure science & technology innovations, barely has anything to do with any of the keywords of the blog. But in such a complex world, full of confusion, uncertainty and stupidity, it is really a pleasure to learn some amazing achievements and breakthrough---the creativity we are presenting and the capacity we are demonstrating make me more willing to believe that we have the potential to create a brighter future.

And thinking about the role of science and technology have been playing, everyone has to admit it is extremely critical. It changes people's view of power, people's lifestyle, structure of society, the way wealth distributed, and therefore has a fundamental impact on how people view and understand themselves and the world.

It is sad that although we have made tremendous progress on science and technology, we as human being, the nature of us haven't change much at all. And so many times, the progress or advance of technology amplifies the dark sides of us, which is getting more and more scary, since we are more and more capable of destroying ourselves in more and more ways.

The limitation of science and technology lays in smaller scales too. For example, with the great possibility of understanding things/people better because of the availability of information, the walls of peopel's minds, built by ignorance, arrogance, self-righteousness and prejudice, still are as solid as before---in so many places, all kinds of hate exist without any changes over hundreds of years; in lots of places, people haven't become open-minded and respectful to other cultures, although they learn international studies, which made me lose my faith in the value of education. Obviously, people is still way too complex to decode for the current level of science and technology, not to mention to change.

But still, among all the other forces which might make us become better human beings, I choose to believe in science and technology. Its beauty is stability and rationality. The equations, diagrams, rules and experiments are the same no matter at what time or to what audience. There is a reason, an explanation behind everything. It captures the rhyme of nature and since nature has been developing for millions of years, it is stable, efficient and rational.

While other fields related to human beings, like financial industry, politics, the issues are too complex to decode to a simple report with equations, supporting data/experiments which everyone could understand and agree on the same conclusion if he/she really want to. Look at middle east, it is a vivid example of how impossible it is for people to agree on something. And the current financial crisis is so scary because nobody could really explain/understand it. These fields determined purely by people are too easy to make mistakes.

And in my opinion, the biggest contribution of science and technology development is in the telecommunication field. Information is power. Through TV, Internet, you will see the rest of the world, learn how other people live their lives and what possibilities out there are attractive to you. You see doors which you don't know exist before, you can decide which door you want to go through and you can get access to the information about how. Not everyone has the willingness to think and care but at least for those who do, they have the power. It’s really beautiful.

Stupid Chinese speakman and Dalai Lama's people

2008-11-11T23:20:00.004-07:00

1. Excerpt from <Dalai Lama and the Tibet question: Time for a new approach?> http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=15&entry_id=32525
Xinhua, China's government-controlled news agency, also quoted Zhu Weiqun, who, at a press conference in Beijing organized by the Information Office of the State Council (China's governing cabinet), stated: "We hope that [the Dalai Lama] could correct his mistakes and get closer to the central government and do something beneficial for the people, including the Tibetans, during the remainder of his life, no matter if his health condition is good or poor....He is in his 70s and in a poor health condition, after all[;] we do not expect him to leave an infamous reputation in history...." Looking ahead, Zhu suggested that "some foreigners and Tibetans in exile had warned that violence and terror might increase in Tibet" after the Dalai Lama dies.

----This speakman is desperately stupid. In the article of my last post he sounds SO arrogant and self-righteous and rude. But here he just sounds amazingly STUPID and self-important. I feel so ashamed. Click 'Xinhua' for the full article about his speech. "We believe that in the present situation most of the Tibetans in exile will not support violence and terror and even in the future we believe most of them will not agree to use violence or terrorism against China or the Tibet Autonomous Region," Zhu said when replying to CNN reporters. This is so untrue and it is contradict with "some foreigners and Tibetans in exile had warned that violence and terror might increase in Tibet", which he said soon after. As a speakman, at least I hope he could be lying in a more professional way, instead of just like some random dude from some BBS.

2. From magazine, 'global news' section, there is a brief that Dalai Lama recently publicly announced that he has lost faith in the current Chinese leadership and will let his people choose the way of the future of Tibet. I feel sad and I am worried about the choice of his people.

The special meeting later this month of exiled Tibetan community will talk about the future course of the Tibetan movement, including the possibility of a historic switch from demanding autonomy to a demand for full independence. I wonder whether there will be a new leader for his people and whether there will be any practical procedures for such a complex issue.

There is no way China would let Tibet pursue 'full independence'. Under the current financial situation, China is messed up almost as much as the rest of the world, lots of doubt about the efficiency of the new simulate package on the executive level, society unstable due to poor social warefare network; US is facing more job loss from Wall Street and other Giant companies struggle to get bail out, making people wonder what the worst part will be; other parts are either busy with the financial fighting, like Europe, or falling into more shitty situation, like the increasingly screwed Africa...It requires imagination to tell how Tibet would fit into such a choas world. Look forward to Dalai Lama's people's choice and everything after.

Dalai Lama accused of ‘ethnic splitting'

2008-11-11T23:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.ftchinese.com/story.php?lang=en&storyid=001023013
By Mure Dickie in Beijing 2008-11-11

China branded the Dalai Lama a would-be ethnic cleanser yesterday as it rejected his calls for “genuine autonomy” in Tibet.

A senior Communist party official denounced the Himalayan region's exiled spiritual leader as a scheming “splittist”.

His comments will fuel frustration among exiled Tibetans before a potentially pivotal gathering of leading members of the diaspora in India this month.

Zhu Weiqun, vice-minister of the Communist party's United Front Work Department, said the Dalai Lama's representatives were to blame for the failure last week of the latest talks between the two sides.

However, Mr Zhu made clear that China had no interest in engaging with the Dalai Lama's call for “genuine autonomy” for Tibetans in China, which he called an attempt to promote “ethnic splitting”.

“We merely talked about how the Dalai Lama should completely give up his splittist opinions and actions and strive for the understanding of the central authorities and all Chinese people so as to solve the issue concerning his own prospects,” he said, adding that the globetrotting monk harboured hostile intentions.

“If he really were to gain power one day, he would without compunction or sympathy carry out ethnic discrimination, apartheid and ethnic cleansing,” Mr Zhu said.

Tibet is formally labelled an “autonomous region” but remains under the tight control of Beijing.

Police have used harsh measures to suppress political dissent or displays of loyalty to the Dalai Lama.

The Dalai Lama has himself suggested that his attempts to engage China have been a failure, in spite of his repeated insistence that he is not seeking independence for Tibet.

Catch up of the past major events in US

2008-11-11T23:02:00.001-07:00

1. Best Picture of Crisis2. The Treasury Department has issued a new dollar bill to reflect the state of the economy.
3. Sarah Palin Debate Flow Chart

http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/2008/10/03/palinflow.jpg

4. Gaint banks. Commented by Tim.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27441147/ - The financial crisis that has been sweeping the globe has reshaped nearly every corner of the economy, but no industry has been altered more radically than banking.

Several of the nation's biggest banks have failed or been absorbed by healthier institutions, leaving three giant "superbanks" with an unprecedented concentration of market power: Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo.

While that may be good news for emerging giants and the failing companies they helped rescue, the new oligopoly raises troubling questions about regulation and competition, analysts and consumer advocates say. Many analysts worry about how federal and state authorities, who were unable to prevent the current financial industry meltdown, will be able to monitor the new giant banks that combine a wide range of operations from investment banking to consumer lending.

“Large institutions are impossible to manage prudently, let alone regulate,” says Amar Bhide, a professor at the Columbia Business School.

In fact, existing federal banking laws say that no bank can have more than 10 percent of the domestic deposit market — a threshold recently surpassed by all three superbanks. ----- Oh nice, Glad to see the Bush admin still is increasing their legacy of screwing up the USA. Well I guess first we had the founding fathers rolling over In their graves for how the Bush admin treated the constitution, then Eisenhower over the Military Industrial complex we’ve become , then FDR over the handling of the country’s infrastructure and how we handled the economic crisis, then even Nixon (for screwing up our relations w/ china) and Regan (for restarting the Cold war), now I guess we will have to add T. Rosevelt not only for the enviormental issues, but now reinstating the monopolies and Robber Barons he helped get rid of 100 yrs ago (Banks, Oil, and now we’ve replaced Pharma and Ins for Steel and railroads). Go BUSH YEARS!!!!!!!!

News Observation-why I do this and about Aug, 08

2008-08-31T23:43:00.006-06:00

It is interesting to look at the same incident from different point of views. The truth is usually lying somewhere between those views, if we are lucky and caring enough to find it.

From Trent's recent entry about the CDT article, it is quite clear that the correct interpretation depends on so many things, news sources, culture/political regulation understanding, etc.

It is quite a challenging job to try to offer a objective view. I don't think I am capable of doing that. But I want to try to offer a collection of views from Chinese media about important/interesting incidents, which I can find in English and are closely related to Chinese government/people.

I think 'New observation' is a good name for this attempt. I will only list what the reporters said and where the sources are, trying hard to do this without any personal opinions. And I mainly use Google as the search engine for my results.

For the first entry under this aim, there are two pieces of news:

1. US men volleyball coach's father-in-law was killed in Beijing
Most of the results are found in all kinds of BBS. Official one is Reuters Chinese webpage. In this Reuters report, the author cited words from Xinhua, also many other comments mentioned Xinhua reported this tragedy, but I can not find the Xinhua source.
For the content of the news, they are all similar, telling about the killer's name, background, and unknown reasons for this kind of rare attacking foreigners incident.

2. Dalai Lama was in hospital and the fast gathering calling for attention to Tibet
Most of the results are found in news website, including Yahoo, Sina, VOA. But all I can find is in traditional Chinese with Hongkong, Taiwan etc indication in the website address, no simplified Chinese ones. From anti-CNN, which is famous for fighting back the fake photos from CNN about the Tibet riot this march, there are simplified comments about this news and in a very hostile manner.
The content is all the same, only differing how much the background of Dalai Lama and the Tibet riot in March were given.

Xinjiang oil boom fuels Uighur resentment

2008-08-31T22:29:00.002-06:00

By Jamil Anderlini in Korla, Xinjiang 2008-09-01
http://www.ftchinese.com/story.php?lang=en&storyid=001021683&page=2

“Offer energy resources as tribute [to Beijing] to create harmony” proclaims a giant billboard outside a petrol station in Korla, in Xinjiang province, China's restive western frontier region.

The increasing importance of the Muslim-dominated Xinjiang autonomous region as a source of the energy and minerals needed to fuel China's booming eastern cities is raising the stakes for Beijing in its battle against separatists agitating for an independent state.

“The Chinese didn't want to let Xinjiang be independent before, but after they built all the oil fields, it became absolutely impossible,” said one Muslim resident in Korla, who asked not to be named for fear of ret- ribution by government security agents.

The desert around the city is punctuated every kilo- metre or two by oil and gas derricks, each of them topped with the red Chinese national flag, an assertion of sovereignty over every inch of the energy-rich ground.

Korla itself is an important junction on the 4,200km-long west-east gas pipeline that carries natural gas from Xinjiang to Shanghai.

A brand new airport, high-rise office blocks and scores of new apartment complexes are proof that the city is reaping the fruits of an energy boom that has seen annual natural gas production in the surrounding Tarim Basin increase 20 times between 2000 and 2007. But the vast majority of profits from the industry are sent back east, along with the oil and gas.

In 2005, Xinjiang's local government was allotted just Rmb240m ($35m) out of the Rmb14.8bn in tax revenue from the petrochemical industries that are based in the region.

In Korla, the oil industry is under the control of a subsidiary of PetroChina, the state-owned energy giant, which answers directly to its head office in Beijing.

“We don't have the power to tell them to do anything, they only listen to their bosses in Beijing,” said one local government official who asked not to be named.

Many of Korla's original Uighur residents feel they have missed out altogether on the few benefits that have trickled down to the region from the rapid extraction of its energy resources.
Mineral exploration began in the Tarim Basin at the start of last century but it was not until 1958, nearly a decade after the Chinese Communist revolution and the re-conquest of Xinjiang, that the first oil field went into production.

At that time Uighurs, a Muslim Turkic people with stronger links to central Asia than the rest of China, were the only inhabitants. Today, Han Chinese from central and eastern provinces make up 70 per cent of the population in Korla.

“A lot of Uighurs say this whole area used to belong to them, and now they are strangers in their own home,” said Xie, a shopkeeper whose parents were sent out to Korla from their native Hunan province in the 1950s to work in a bomb-making factory for the People's Liberation Army. “Some of them are very angry and they're causing more and more trouble these days.”

Uighur resentment has been exacerbated by a massive security operation timed to coincide with the Olympic and Paralympic Games period. Under the auspices of ensuring a “peaceful Olympics”, the government has set up roadblocks and security checks and dispatched armed street patrols, all of which has failed to stop a number of attacks by suspected separatists in recent weeks that have left more than 30 dead. Two policemen were killed yesterday in a clash with armed Uighurs.

At a checkpoint outside Korla, wanted posters display the mug-shots and personal details of 11 Uighurs, some as young as 17, who are being pursued for the crime of selling banned literature, including DVDs and books on the creation of an Islamic state.

Amnesty International says Xinjiang is the only part of China where people are regularly executed for political offences.

“There are a lot of people who want Xinjiang to be independent of China but we personally don't even dare think those thoughts,” said one Uighur in Korla when asked what he thought of the separatist cause.

Locals say Uighurs are sometimes given low-level jobs in the oil fields, but there are none in management positions in Korla. In spite of affirmative action programmes that reserve a proportion of official posts for minority groups, all government and military positions with any real power are held by Han Chinese.

PetroChina and its Korla subsidiary refused to be interviewed, but one former employee said discrimination was rife within the company.

“There used to be two Uighurs driving for the oil company here,” said this former employee, who asked to be known only by his surname, Ma. “But they were moved to a different work unit because the bosses think Muslims are all terrorists and separatists.”

Stifling of dissent tarnishes the gold

2008-08-31T21:59:00.002-06:00

By Geoff Dyer 2008-08-25
http://www.ftchinese.com/story.php?lang=en&storyid=001021529

World records galore, magnificent stadiums, cleanish air and the seemingly inevitable victory for the Chinese team: as the Olympics nears its Sunday close, almost everything that could have gone right has done so.

Yet for all the successes, the authorities have also risked an own goal with the way they have dealt with dissent. The Olympic Games have demonstrated just how much China has been transformed over the past three decades, but have also exposed important ways the country has not changed.

With China winning so many golds, the domestic audience has been entranced. After a bruising few months, China is experiencing its third wave of national unity this year – first through anger at foreigners over Tibet and the torch relay, then in grief after the Sichuan earthquake and now in pride at the huge medal haul.

Zhang Yimou, the film director who designed the spectacular opening ceremony, summed up the mood of national ebullience when he said only China could achieve the strict discipline and technology needed to pull off such a spectacle: “If you think about it, no other country can achieve this in the world.”

Most foreign visitors to the capital – and many television viewers around the world – have been awed by the stadiums, impressed by the level of organisation and charmed by the polite and earnest Olympics volunteers.

Two big factors – pollution and chauvinistic nationalism – that could have undermined the games and damaged China's image proved to be non-events. A mixture of emergency measures on car usage and factory closures, together with wind and rain in the first week, washed away the pollution.

The marathon world record-holder Haile Gebrselassie admitted he was wrong to withdraw from the race in Beijing for fear pollution would spark his asthma. “I'm surprised. What do you expect from me? I was here in February, I didn't see no blue sky,” he said. “Since I came here everything is perfect.”

After the fierce emotions sparked by the disrupted torch relay, some observers feared controversy at the games would prompt another wave of anti-foreigner nationalism. However, the Chinese crowds have largely been polite and generous.

Xu Guoqi, a Chinese historian based in the US who wrote a book about China's relationship with the Olympics, says the games could have an important impact on the Chinese psyche.

“One of the lasting impacts is that Chinese will feel more confident of themselves as a nation and put the sense of inferiority behind them,” he says. “China could become less sensitive about foreign criticism and more willing to recognise weaknesses.”

Yet the Beijing games have also brought out some of the least attractive realities of the Chinese system: the way ordinary citizens with views considered awkward can be steamrollered.

Before the games began, the authorities announced the creation of three protest zones in parks around the city for citizens to hold officially approved demonstrations. Yet some who applied to protest have found themselves in jail or have disappeared and the authorities say they have yet to approve a single protest.

In what appears to be the most egregious case, two elderly Chinese women who applied to protest about the loss of their homes were sentenced to a year of “re-education through labour”, their families and a human rights group said.

“Wang Xiuying is almost blind and disabled. What sort of re-education through labour can she serve?” Li Xuehui, the son of one of the women, told the Associated Press. Beijing Public Security Bureau refused to comment on the case.

In the eyes of some foreign media, the treatment of such would-be protesters has tarnished the reputation of the Beijing games. According to one article in Der Spiegel, the German magazine: “This country [China] has hijacked the games, merely to celebrate and congratulate itself.”

Beijing's Olympics have dazzled but not seduced everyone.

IOC hits out over protest zone use

2008-08-23T17:12:00.004-06:00

By Roger Blitz Wednesday, August 20, 2008 FTChinese.com
click the title of this entry or the link below to see the original post
http://www.ftchinese.com/sc/story_english.jsp?id=001021433&loc=story

Olympic officials have for the first time openly criticised their Beijing hosts for China's intolerance of public protests, questioning their desire to allow citizens the right to raise grievances during the games.

The International Olympic Committee is also understood to believe that lower than expected attendances at games venues is the result of Beijing's poor distribution of tickets for the general public, including the failure to reallocate unwanted tickets.

The two criticisms represent the first splits to emerge between the IOC and the Beijing organising committee (Bocog).

IOC bonhomie was missing in its response to the admission from Beijing authorities on Monday that they had received 77 applications from would-be demonstrators to use special protest zones set up in city parks, but had approved none of them.

The IOC told the Financial Times: “The IOC is not in a position to dictate to city authorities how to run their affairs, however, protest zones are a best practice from previous Olympic host cities for dealing with peaceful protesters who use the platform of the Olympic Games.

“We continue to ask for greater transparency from Beijing city authorities concerning the official protest zones in parks near Olympic venues and would like to see them genuinely used in Beijing.”

Bocog has been repeatedly asked by journalists to provide figures for protest park applications, and several prospective demonstrators have been detained by police. Activist groups have dismissed the Beijing authorities' claim that the applications were withdrawn because the nature of the grievances had been settled.

The IOC also said it was reviewing the distribution of the 6.8m games tickets. Beijing organisers announced prior to the games that all venues were sold out.

Over The Great Firewall

2008-08-13T22:23:00.004-06:00

Found a few sources of ways over the firewall:

https://www.torproject.org/ (downloadable software - instructions available in Chinese)

http://www.internetfreedom.org/ (same)

http://www.anonymouse.org (the old standby)

The fact that China has completely censored the stabbing of Todd Bachman is an excellent example of why it's necessary to fight to get over censorship.

Though China's not the only one guilty of trying to guide its citizens. Freedom House provides an analysis of Press Freedom (http://www.freedomhouse.org/template.cfm?page=251&year=2006 )

This should be considered when examining problems with Olympic reporting or let's say the Georgia-Russia conflict.

Freedom of the press isn't the whole story. Ken Silverstein in Harper's Magazine has an excellent quick point on bias from US media on the issue of Georgia-Russia conflict. (http://harpers.org/subjects/WashingtonBabylon)

Ok, swimming relay. Finally something interesting to watch on the olympics

2008-08-13T21:57:00.002-06:00

Below is a story from China Digital Times. Tibet isn't really the sensible topic these days with all eyes on Beijing. This article points to a number of issues with Western media and Chinese thinking on it.

For what it's worth, I've been extremely impressed with China Digital Times. It's run by Chinese folks (http://chinadigitaltimes.net/about and http://chinadigitaltimes.net/team ) CDT represents a rational Chinese approach to reporting I rarely find.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Liang Wendao, a well-known host of Phoenix TV, a Chinese broadcasting company based in Hong Kong, commented on the recent clash between members of the press and police during Olympics ticket sales on his blog. Translated by CDT’s Linjun Fan.

Many Chinese are confused over why people overseas often pick on our faults when the nation is becoming strong, its economy is increasingly prosperous, and people’s lives are being improved day by day. Why do the overseas media vilify us? Perhaps we could look at the problem this way: it is caused by the divergence of two images of China: One is a rising superpower, which is in the collective consciousness of the Chinese people; the other is a dinosaur with tons of problems, which is in the minds of people overseas.

We often say that when foreigners get to know China better, their prejudices would disappear. We all think that frequent contact and adequate information would help to reduce the divergence between the
two different perceptions. If this assumption stands, the Chinese people should also know better about what is happening to ourselves, so we could have a reasonable image of the country and won’t feel too good about ourselves.

A number of mainland newspapers published a tabloid news story on July 26, which said that a reporter from the South China Morning Post disobeyed Beijing police and even injured a policeman by kicking him. If they read only this news story on the incident, Chinese readers might think that overseas media were creating problems in China again, and that the Hong Kong reporters were so aggressive as to make trouble out of nothing at a celebratory occasion.

However, the media in Hong Kong told a completely different story about this incident. They published pictures showing that a huge crowd of Beijing residents who had been queuing for days to buy Olympic tickets went out of control. A single long line broke into three ones. The crowd as well as the police at the spot were restless from the scorching heat.

Various Hong Kong reporters took pictures of the scene with their cameras. The police tried to stop them. They intended to either confiscate their videotapes or detain them. They even beat the reporters.

We all know that the State Council had put forth a new regulation long ago to give more freedom to overseas press…We all applauded this regulation as a sign of China’s opening up, and its first step towards hosting a civilized Olympic Games. However, as we saw clearly on TV, the policemen in China’s capital kept questioning the Hong Kong reporters over whether they had permission. They did not to listen to the reporters who responded to them with the State Council regulation. The police also tried to block the photographers’ lenses with their hands. The kicking of a policeman by a South China Morning Post reporter took place at this chaotic moment.

Therefore, through the various indignant coverage on the incident by Hong Kong media, the image of Chinese bad at queuing and of Chinese police disrespecting press freedom was spread out to the world once again. But what people in China read about in their papers was that a Hong Kong reporter attacked a Beijing policeman for no good reason. The divergence of the two images gets widened with one such small incident after another.

Can the Beijing Olympics help to present the new image of contemporary China to the world? Perhaps. Take the Beijing police who rudely treated Hong Kong reporters as an example. I don’t deny that reporters could be blamed for going over a media zone designated by the police. However, was it necessary for the police to dispel the reporters even after they quit to the media zone? We might regard it as a new image of China that is worth celebrating — at least the police had realized that it was not a good image to be seen by the world that people in China didn’t wait in queues to buy tickets. The fact that the police asked reporters to stop taking pictures and forced them to hand over their videotapes showed that they were aware of the power of media supervision. How would the police have been afraid of reporters if we were still in the era when all media were the mouthpiece of the government?

…

Hong Kong reporters intuitively responded to the questioning of the police with the new State Council regulation on the rights of overseas press. They forgot how loyal these policemen were. To the policemen, the orders from above were everything. If they receive a new order (let’s suppose that the order is to maintain social order at any cost), they could ignore all previous laws and regulations to carry it out. In China, the lines between laws, regulations, and orders are blurred. You could regard all of them as orders of different types. A new order always overrides all previous orders, no matter if it is an administrative regulation, a national policy, or a codified body of law.

The police who beat the the reporters might have received orders to treat reporters politely. They might also know that overseas media need not get permission from the government to conduct interviews, and that it is important for them to fulfill their duties in a civilized way. However, since they’ve got the latest and the highest order, they would do their utmost to carry it out and to maintain
peace and order during the Olympics.

What was most interesting during the incident was what a Beijing resident said in an interview with a Hong Kong reporter at the chaotic scene, “We are in good order. There is no problem. Please don’t ask me about it any more.” We could see clearly from recorded pictures that the scene in the background was chaotic and people were pushing each other at the time he spoke. Yes, we were in peace, in harmony and in good order, although the crowd was a mess and a policeman pinched a
reporter on the neck.

(For more on this story, see these posts from ESWN.)

Activists play parallel Beijing games

2008-08-10T11:30:00.002-06:00

By Mure Dickie in Beijing

Thursday, August 07, 2008
http://www.ftchinese.com/sc/story_english.jsp?id=001021084&loc=story

The Beijing Olympics do not formally open until tomorrow but a parallel competition between international activists and Chinese authorities began yesterday.

Demonstrations against Chinese rule in Tibet, its national policy on population control and the use of animal fur underscored campaigners' determination to use the “Protest Games” to win publicity.

In one dramatic stunt, four activists from Britain and the US hung banners calling for freedom for Tibet from two street-lamps towering over the Olympic Green.

“We did this action today to highlight the Chinese government's use of the Beijing Olympics for whitewashing [its] human rights record,” said Ian Thom, a member of the group Students for a Free Tibet, in a recorded phone call from “30 or 40 metres” up one of the lampposts. “Now is a really critical time for Tibet,” said Mr Thom in the call, which was released online on the Free Tibet 2008 website. Mr Thom was later detained by police “for investigation”, the Xinhua news agency said.

Separately, three US Christian campaigners shouted slogans denouncing China's population control policy on Tiananmen Square, just hours after a huge Olympic torch relay rally was held in the politically sensitive area. The three were hustled away by police but later released, said Reuters news agency.

Amanda Beard, a US 2004 Olympics swimming gold medallist hoping to repeat her success, unveiled an anti-fur poster featuring a nude photograph of herself at an impromptu event outside the athletes' village after police banned a planned press conference in a Beijing hotel.

China has sought to limit opportunities for critics and campaigners to demonstrate during the games in part by dramatically tightening policies on visa issuance and by barring known activists.

Joey Cheek, the winter Olympic gold medallist founder of a group of athletes seeking to draw attention to the conflict in Sudan's Darfur region, said his visa to China had been revoked this week.

Jill Savitt, executive director of Dream for Darfur, another campaign group, said her application for a visa had been rejected.

Such moves have not silenced the critics. Dream for Darfur is to hold an online “alternative opening ceremony” tomorrow,followed by a daily webcast by the actress Mia Farrow from a Darfur refugee camp.

The impact of such demonstrations on China's international image will depend in part on how the authorities respond. While Chinese police sometimes deal roughly with domestic protesters, the authorities are keen to avoid any on-camera violence during the games.

Domestic state media largely ignored yesterday's protests, with Xinhua's report on the Tibet activists released only on its English-language service.

However, further demonstrations could trigger angry responses from Beijing residents, with nationalist sentiment running high among the many Chinese people who saw disruption of the international Olympic torch relay as a sign of foreign hostility.

A translation of Xinhua's report on the “Free Tibet” activists that was posted on a local website prompted harsh comments from internet users. “Drag them out and shoot them,” wrote one poster. “Castrate the men and cut off the breasts of the women,” wrote another.

Grand opening of the Olympics

2008-08-09T10:45:00.002-06:00

08/08/08, yesterday, is the opening date for Beijing Olympics. I was stuck in a heavy rain for very long and missed most of the performance, then watched the replay from NBC on a very crappy and small TV in a kind of crowded and noisy room...So I wouldn't say I fully got the wonderfulness of this exciting event. But still, I think it was a very impressive and beautiful opening ceremony.

My friend in Beijing sent me an email about his experience and feelings (the following is excerpted from the email and translated by me):
Tonight is destined to be a sleepless night. We sent out to find a big screen outside to experience the the very rare moment. We ended up watching it in Wang Fu Jing.
It was very hot and humid, but I can feel all the people around me were really excited and enthusiastic. We were too happy tonight. We were standing the whole four hours in the crowd and applauded when there were close shot about Chinese athletes, we also sang national theme sometime to express our excitement. The whole ceremony was really great, especially the ignition of the Olympic torch.
It feels so excited and happy as a Chinese! Beijing has been preparing this very carefully for quite a long time and finally it is time now for the whole world to focus on it.
Poor Tian! It is such a pity you were not here and missed the great atmosphere filled with Beijing! But no need to be too sad, there would be other opportunities in the future. Wish you work hard and become wealthy, letting the foreigner feel the high spirit and the eager to do well in everything of the contemporary Chinese youth!

I post the last part of his email just for fun since this friend likes to talk and encourage me in a manner of a leader's speech. But anyway, I think you would be impressed by the excitement and the national proud from his email.

I really wish I could be in Beijing now, for the first time in the past two years of staying in US. No matter what problems China is having inside and outside, just give a break for us all to feel happy and proud for a short while! I begin to realize things are happening simultaneously and there is no such points that can mean a total ending to worries or concerns, also there is no brand-new start or something like that---there are always shadows from yesterday that shows who you are when you are facing a new day. But maybe exactly because of this, there are some moments, just very short and very unstable, but are very beautiful and memorable, in the short intervals between the unstoppable wheel of time or life.

Based on the same reason, I feel very irritated to read http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/olympics/article4481513.ece
the title is 'Lucy Fairbrother and Iain Thom return with promises of more Tibet protests', about two British students post a banner 'one world, one dream, free Tibet' around the main stadium on the eve of the Games. It also mentioned there were two Americans carried the similar protest and were also departed. Give us a short break! Show some respect for the long time dream of a country! And if you want to win a debate or a negotiation, don't make the other side feel stupid and mad. Having valid reasons is far from getting the successful solution of a problem, no matter in interpersonal relationship or international issues.

Authorized censorship and the understanding gap

2008-07-31T12:15:00.002-06:00

Click the title to read 'Olympic organizers agree China blocking 'senstive' internet sites' by Jane Macartney in Beijing on July 31, 2008 from Times Online, or click the following link http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/olympics/article4431162.ece

Following is the excerpt I did from the original article to offer a brief summary:
A deal with Beijing has allowed the Chinese authorities to block sensitive internet sites, the International Olympic Committee has disclosed. Giselle Davies, of the IOC, said some sites would be unavailable to the 20,000 reporters covering the games. “We’re working with them to ensure the media face the minimum possible restrictions.” Chinese organisers said that the censorship would not hamper journalists in their job of reporting on the Games. Sun Weide, a Bocog official, said that the plan had always been to provide “sufficient” internet access for foreign reporters. Sites run by the Falun Gong religious sect remain inaccessible, as do most sites with the word Tibet in their internet address.

My thoughts:
1. 'sufficient' from Bocog official only make me feel hopeless and funny. Whenever there is a power to decide what is sufficient or appropriate, there exist the possibility of overusing the power. No one has the right to decide what is sufficient for the public.
2. I can not see any function expect for damaging the trust relationship between foreign reporter and Chinese government by blocking the access for the foreign reporters. I don't understand why Chinese government does this. The foreign reporters know the censorship in China and they need a demonstration about that? And think about that, they will get what they want to know anyway because they have people in foreign countries and they will go back their countries soon, so why not just make things easier for both them and the censorship workers? So confused!

But the more interesting thing which triggered my desire to write this post is reading the comments following, a mixture of Chinese and non-Chinese readers. Following is the excerpt I did from the comments to offer a brief summary:
From Chinese:
1. I'm sorry if I'm missing something here but I thought the west sent reporters here to report on the Olympics, obviously wrong. No, let's send a lot of reporters to see how much trouble they can make. Why do they need to go to these not athletics sites. Just to please the west?
2. Why are you westerners so concerned about China and its CCP govt.? It is the only Government China has and it is doing a fine job, maybe too fine that you find it hard to digest,eh? The Western educated Chinese will return to carry on with the fine job. OK!
From Non-Chinese:
1. The only way to effectively protest about the conditions in China is for the publicly funded BBC, politicians and the chosen athletic representatives of Great Britain not to attend theses games. The television licence paying public have never been asked by the BBC if I want them to cover the games, nor have the people been consulted about our politicians attending the opening ceremony. The athletes, who seem not to be concerned about the political censorship and oppression in China, should all withdraw from the games. As for the sponsors, need I say more?
2. "some IOC officials had agreed" - which officials? - the IOC should totally dissociate and sack them!! Again China gets away with anti-human rights, and censorship - totally contrary to the contracts and agreements they committed to as part of their awarding of the Olympics. Shame!!
3. Why is anyone surprised. The Chinese government isn't a legitimate one voted in by its people. Therefore it is terrified of any criticism which might undermine its authority. Our hope is that western educated Chinese will one day reform China and its people will get the freedom they deserve.

My thoughts:
1. Chinese people have a unusual standard and awareness to tell foreigners from Chinese. This is what Trent told me and as soon as I heard that, I know he is right. And since the historical reasons, Chinese like to link themselves to a bigger organization and analyze problems unnecessarily to a higher level of concepts without really analyzing the problem. These two comments from Chinese are a vivid show about this. Taking 'West' as a general enemy, which sounds not reasonable enough, and talking the fine job the government has done, which has nothing to do with the specific point of the article.
2. There are more comments from Non-Chinese people, mainly from UK, calling for the so called 'effective protest', as the first paragraph listed under 'From Non-Chinese'. Things in China can not work as people think in their country. Nothing is as simply as it appears. Everything is complex and people do things because they have their own valid reasons. But the problem is it is very very hard for people to understand the 'valid reasons' from the other side. World changes fast and seriously, it is very difficult to have the time to understand each other since so many things are going on and the hot issue changes from day to day. The information explosion makes things superficial and people just are busy with expressing their opinions without much understanding. As I wrote this, I know I am also one of the people I just criticized.
3. I don't know about the agreement of Olympics. But the second paragraph got a point, in my opinion.
4. I originally thought education can be the key to solve the understanding gaps. But now, from the Chinese students who came to US to study international studies but have the attitude of representative from central government and are so defensive that no reasonable discussion can be conducted with them, from the Americans who are in the international studies but don't show the cultural sensitivity and respect, I begin to think I was wrong. Maybe the ability and willingness to understand each other is just a natural property of people that doesn't require any outside education? And possibly it can be ruined by inproper education? No ideas.

Some Thoughts about Security during the Olympics

2008-07-31T10:46:00.003-06:00

Click the title to read 'China tightens Tibet security ahead of Beijing Olympics' by Jane Macartney in Beijing on July 30, 2008 from Times Online, or click the following link
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article4427278.ece

Some very unpleasant things had happened in China recently, including bus bombings claimed responsibility by an unknown group calling itself the Turkistan Islamic Party, a police official's death which made Yang Jia, the killer, famous and caused conflicts on viewing justice and a young girl's death which is believed to have some hidden secrets with the local authorities...

Too many problems to be solved but currently, the only thing the government can do for the short run is tightening security allover problematic areas in China, including the important cities like Beijing and Shanghai and the area that might cause trouble, like Tibet, to creat or maintain the peace at least on the surface. “Civilian police will cancel all two-day weekend vacations. All police will be mobilised. All police will be in action. The police will be fully devoted to Olympic security work with a high sense of political responsibility.”, cited from a meeting of the Tibet public security office.

I have the following thoughts:

1. It is understandable to tighten the security in Tibet. I am thinking the questions: 'Does the Chinese government not realise that all this draconian security in Tibet will only cause further damage to their already poor reputation? , whereas allowing peaceful protests will only earn them respect. Is this concept too difficult for them to grasp?' quoted from a reader, Mike, Nottm from UK, but I still think the tightened security in Tibet is justified. This year is a tough year to China, and Chinese government can not afford any tiny little problem during the Olympics. This would be a tough battle and all I can say is good luck. I can not wait till the end day, Aug 24th, of the Olympics since after all the show, we can close the door and sit down to solve some real problems from the roots, hopefully.

2. About Tibet, the real problem is what they are going to do in the long run. Tightening security is understandable during the Olympics but the government can not maintain the superficial order by the security manner. Besides the money spending on the tight security, inconvenience of people's daily life, there is no way in hell the real problem can be solved if the government refuses to stand in Tibetans shoes to understand their heart of beliefs. Or please just try very hard to stay at the same page with the Tibetan people, by not claiming the economic development and arrogantly thinking everyone wants the same.

3. I am thinking sometimes that China is actually not ready to have such an important world event. Economically, we are strong enough, but there are too many problems which are suppressed, sacrificed, ignored before in order to develop economy, too many conflicts are introduced into the society because of the unbalanced development mood and way too fast changes, from Xu Zhiyuan's column in FTchinese.com those concerns are expressed brilliantly. I think the strategies of economic development was the best we can do under that historical moments and conditions and I really think Chinese government is doing a great job, but now probably is the time to think very hard for another way to solve the longtime accumulated problems.
It is unavoidable. I remembered when the Olympics relay was protested, a comment said it is the first time for Chinese to know how world views them and they will learn from the pain and the angry caused by the different voices. Changes always can not come easy. Things that come easily can not last long. Therefore, I think Olympics is a big piece of weight, among other pieces, adding to the scale to make the scale read 'time to change', in this sense, just welcome all the problems showing and remember them for the further reference.

$42 billion

2008-07-27T20:51:00.002-06:00

"$42 billion: Amount China has spent so far on the Beijing Olympics, mostly on infrastructure like roads and subways. " Vol. 172, No. 4, Briefing section, Numbers part showed this. Not surprised at all, even if there was another 0 following, but the funny thing is the other number on the page next to this $42 is 42%: Percentage of people in the U.S. who have tried marijuana--the highest of any country surveyed in a new study.

On the same issue, there is an article by Simon Elegant. It talked about Olympics, of course, but what interested me is other aspects of Beijing the authored showed through interviews with a painter in Songzhuang, in Beijing Eastern suburbs, a chief from New York, whose restaurant is near Tiananmen Square, a businessman in Zhongguancun, China's Silicon Valley, an former Wall Street bond trader who is now an economics professor at Peking University and also the godfather of D-22, Beijing's bleeding-edge rock club, where he helped Chinese bands get their audience from his club running experience in New York. Kaiser Kuo, a Chinese-American transplant to Beijing said "It is a horrible place to live, but I wouldn't be anywhere else on the planet. You get addicted to the excitement, speed and change." I have to say, this article opens my eyes to Beijing, which I stayed four years but have no affection to, a super size city, polluted, crowded, arrogant, cold and busy. I find the interesting, living side of Beijing just as a city full with all kinds of people who are creating their lives, not a symbol of politics, Olympics etc.

The author said "There is, of course, one area where little has changed: politics. Despite allowing Beijingers (and indeed all Chinese) vastly more freedom in their personal lives, the Communist Party still suppresses any public discussion of the legitimacy of its rule or talk of alternatives to the current authoritarian system of government. And there's no doubt that the same party cadres that allowed Beijing's cultural flowering to happen still have the ability to smother the creative explosion if it gets out of hand. "

"That reality has been vividly illustrated in recent months as the authorities made final preparations for the Games. Instead of ushering in the new openness the Olympics were supposed to foster, the government has clamped down on almost every aspect of life in the name of security. Thousands of foreigners living in China have been unable to renew their visas; many would-be tourists have been equally unlucky, leaving hotels that had expected to be bursting at the seams with occupancy rates under 50%. Organizers have been told unofficially that all outdoor gatherings in the months before the Games are banned. Clubs that had operated with impunity are suddenly having trouble with their licenses. Human-rights activists, public interest lawyers and other dissenting voices have been jailed or harassed. "

I don't know about the jailed activists thing, but for the inconvenience of residents living in Beijing I have something to say. In my college, there is a stadium for Olympics built. My classmate, who still lives on campus but is working, told me everyone needs the student card to get into the cafeteria under the name of security. So she only can go to the markets to get things to eat now. My first thought is 'what is in hell the link between cafeteria and the stadium?' and how can my college be so arrogant to be so self-important to assume the so called terrorists would come here? I got pissed off by the security bullshit that it caused unnecessary inconvenience under the name of Olympics. Then my classmate said it is ok to tolerate any inconvenience during the Olympics and they are right to maintain the security to avoid something bad happens to the Olympics. I was pissed off even more by her response. The word in my brain is what Georgy Carlin said about the purpose of airport security "it just reminds you that they can do whatever they want to you, as long as you put up with it." And I can think how those posters about 'patriotism', 'nationalism', 'pride' and so on are flying in my college. I am mad by the misuse of 'patriotism' and I will be so pissed off if someone tells me to tolerate or sacrifice anything under the name of this kind of patriotism. Other things happening to my friends are graduates are forcing to leave school much earlier than before since Beijing are limiting the number of residents. What I can say about it is I am so glad I am not at Beijing right now.

Mentioned by Robert, I checked Chinese news sources and indeed they are true: 1. the dog meat supply in 112 restaurants associated with Olympics, train stations, airports in Beijing would stop during the Olympics. 2. there are posters in 126 communities in Dongcheng district, Beijing , where Tiananmen is, about eight topics that shouldn't ask about foreigners, including age, income, marriage, health, experience etc.

Comments are China is trying to present a perfect Olympic so China is trying very hard to please everyone and show a perfect imagine. Critics said it is supposed to call for polite behaviors like not to speak too loud, not to litter, not to jump the queue and not to spit, as what Chinese government has done since earlier the preparation, but the 'eight questions shouldn't ask' probably went too far.

My opinion is stopping the trying to please everyone because it is impossible. People come to China to see the Olympics, of course, but they also want to see the real life of Chinese people. Most important, they know China before they come here and they will change their opinion in the future by other news and events. Smart people will not take the static imagine of a country as a fixed source of opinion, and it is no need to please stupid people. I want to say, China, please work on important things and if you are doing well, for sure you would become attractive to other people, then let them adjust to you! For the two news:
1. European people laugh at the people who don't eat the food they eat and oppose the people who eat the food they don't eat. What is the logic? Yes, in 1988 Korean Olympics the government had forbidden dog meat supply because of the strong dissent from animal rights organizations, and the forbidden policy was suggested by experts in the Olympics consulting board, so maybe this time Chinese government should do this automatically.
But I still feel irrelevant and irrational. People have the history reasons to take some animal to eat because it is a good source of protein. People also have history reasons or religion reasons or emotional reasons not to eat certain animals. We live in a very diverse world and everyone has the right to do whatever he/she wants to do as long as no other people's rights/interests are hurt. We really shouldn't eat any animals since they all have the right to live a better life, but we eat them anyway and not many people, except some religion reasons, are against eating chickens, pigs or cows, probably only because the amount of people who are eating them are numerous. I am very against eating dogs, but based on logic, I say protect your pet dogs and just leave the people who eat dogs alone.
2. It would be rude if a foreigner asks you questions about your experience etc and you don't ask anything about him, in my opinion. I don't know whether the authority has considered about this point. As Robert said, each country has its own uncomfortable issue so probably only weather is universal to talk. It is very considerate for Chinese people to be aware about it, but it really went too far. The world is complex, we have different cultural, different countries, and people are different, too. The only way to deal with the numerous difference is to be sensitive, open-minded and humble---don't force people to answer questions if they refuse to, don't judge people based on simple answers and remember everyone is different and has every right to be, don't be arrogant to think your have should-be answers. Celebrate the difference and look for similarities.

Beijing parks Olympic dissent

2008-07-27T19:24:00.002-06:00

By Mure Dickie in Beijing

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Beijing has set aside areas in three city parks for public demonstrations during next month's Olympic Games – but would-be protesters will still need to get prior government approval.

The announcement yesterday by Liu Shaowu, security director for the Beijing Games organising committee (Bocog), left unclear how willing authorities will be to tolerate displays of dissent in the parks.

Chinese officials rarely grant approval for public protests unless judged supportive of government policy. People who organise protests judged hostile or subversive are routinely detained, jailed or, in the case of foreigners, deported

Members of groups critical of China's policies on Tibet, human rights, the banned Falun Gong sect and Sudan are expected to try to demonstrate during the games.

Mr Liu stressed that no demonstration of “political, religious or racial propaganda” would be permitted in any Olympic site, venue or area. He gave no details of what protest forms or topics would be allowed in the three parks in Beijing's Chaoyang, Fengtai and Haidian districts. It was also unclear how keen Bocog is to make local citizens aware of the designated protest areas; the committee did not include details of their location in its transcript of the press conference.

In response, Human Rights Watch suggested Beijing had adopted a “fishbowl approach” to control demonstrations during the games that would amount to a denial to the right to protest.

“Designating unilaterally ‘protest zones' for demonstrators does not equate to respecting the right to demonstrate because in this situation control comes first and the right second,” Nicholas Bequelin, a Hong Kong-based researcher at the rights watchdog, said.

“We are also concerned about the possibility that the authorities might use the existence of these zones to justify repressive measures against demonstrators outside of the zones,” he said.

While China insists politics be kept separate from the Olympics, it has defend- ed attempts by officials in Tibet to link the games with its crackdown on separatist dissent in the restive Himalayan region.

Patriotism vs. Self-censor

2008-07-27T16:32:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday, I ran into a friend from South Korean major in international studies. Our conversation began from the coming Olympics--I said no to his question 'Are you excited about Olympics?'. He was surprised because all the Chinese students in his department are very excited about it. Then we began a long talk covering many issues in China this year, including Tibet. He was very shocked by my opinion of Tibet and he said finally he found some Chinese different from others who all have the same opinion, which almost can be put as 'representatives of central government'.

The idea interested me is he said other Chinese think the same way as I do but they have the self-censorship that prevents them saying what they really think because of fears or worries for the experience of that Chinese girl in Duke.

I am wondering about it. All my interesting and provoking politics talks have been conducted in English. I seldom talk about politics with my Chinese friends because I don't think it is worthy the time---the people who care enough to talk about it are not much, and most of them seldom care enough to know enough to make points valid enough to stimulate my thinking and because I am afraid of the label of 'unpatriotic' based on the over-simplified reasoning and extreme nationalism thinking which can be seen everywhere. Also, I have to admit, I don't know enough to make my points valid.

I think there are some Chinese people who think as I do but just don't express their thoughts in public. But I can not understand why they have to say something they don't think or are not sure is true. I define honesty as not necessarily speak out every truth, but absolutely not telling lies. Censorship in my understand only limits the expression of certain information but has nothing to do with lying.

Therefore, I don't think Kang's 'self-censor' is accurate enough. 'Fear' ---to be labeled as 'unpatriotic' is more accurate in my opinion. I will feel much more glad if Chinese students really have their own opinion but just because of fear they become the representatives of central government. Things would be much better and much easier if it is true.

So let's assume 'fear' is the only reason why they are representatives of central government, I think the discussion about what is real patriotism seriously would be very beneficial. There are some good words about it from INBOX section of Vol. 172, No. 3:

1. Richard Stengel's "The New Patriotism" was helpful in understanding the theme of this presidential election [July 7]. Upholding American ideals makes us better, but candidates tend to look for hot buttons to create fear. We need a definition of patriotism that recognizes our nation's proud heritage but sees how much better we can be.----Steven A. Ludsin, East Hampton, N.Y.
2. Nowhere in Peter Beinart's article did I see mention of the word nationalism, which is what much of far-right patriotism really is. It is not healthy to say, "I love my country, right or wrong." I love my country too---and I am not ashamed to acknowledge its mistakes as well as its accomplishment. ----Mark Fagerbury, Richmond, VA.
3. The issue is not how patriotism should be expressed but whether it is a positive force in the world. I don't think it is. Patriotism is what kept the media from questioning plans for invading Iraq before the war started. Fear of being labeled unpatriotic is what kept more legislators from voting against authorizing its invasion. The U.S. has a long history of not living up to its ideals because more importance is placed on shallow expressions of honor and love of country than on making sure all people are treated equitably.----Mary Brewerton, Denver

Loving a country is like loving a person in some extent. Seeing both the bright and dark sides of the country and still love her; listening to her and understand her worries, concerns, holding her hands quietly and try to find a way for her, instead of only cheering for her; speak out and try to stop her when she is doing something stupid and harmful to herself in the long-term. Help her to be better, to live up to her best. Fear shouldn't exist in a healthy relationship, no matter in a personal relationship or in the relationship with a country. No fear, then no need to be self-censor, then a healthy relationship can be built. But I don't know how to get rid of the fear......

Some Thoughts about Runner Fan (NO.1 hot keyword online in China)

2008-06-13T11:34:00.005-06:00

Runner Fan now is probably the No.1 famous figure in China. His real name is Fan Meizhong, a teacher in one school in the quake affected area, and when the quake happened, he ran out of the building and didn't do anything to try to help the students. After that, he wrote article online and argued he did the right thing. Later, there are a nationwide argument going on about him. Since he ran so fast and he is very proud of his running, he gained his name 'Runner Fan'. Now he is the No.1 hot keyword online and there are even two songs about him online.

I like one of the two songs because it tells basically what happened in the whole 'Runner Fan' argument and says something reasonable and true. And following is my excerpt of the translation of the lyrics in a essay format. The link following the title of this post is a video of the song.

You shouldn't run that fast when the earthquake happened.
It is OK to run that fast but you shouldn't abandon students.
You shouldn't feel that happy after you ran to save your life but didn't help students.
It is OK to feel glad you saved your life but you shouldn't write the whole thing proudly online.
You shouldn't publish it online.
It is OK to publish the whole story online but you shouldn't claim you have high morality.
You shouldn't argue you did the right thing and even say you are pursuing freedom and justice.
It is OK to argue you did the right thing but you shouldn't say running when the quake happened is the dangerous thing to do to prove you have the reasons to abandon students.
You shouldn't say you would only save your daughter.
We all support you to save your daughter but you shouldn't claim you wouldn't save your mother.

In my opinion, running fast to save his life is totally reasonable and is the right thing to do. But as a teacher, the occupation assigns him the responsibility to take care of students. He shouldn't claim teacher is only an occupation but refuse to take this responsibility.

And furthermore, he claimed that he only teach students to take care of themselves since 'nobody would take care of you' and to obey the minimum of moral rules, which include no stealing, no cheating and so on. And he considers no violation of the minimum of moral rules can make a good enough citizen. It is very easy for the Chinese people to feel angry facing his point of view. While at the same time, an online survey showed more than half of the parents would want Runner Fan to be their kids' teacher since he tells the truth of the world.

I am highly against two extremes of education:
1.Runner Fan's selfish theory focusing on individual base but no emphasis on community sense. Individual is absolutely important, not only to individual's happiness but also to society's well-beings. See United States of America, I think you can find the brilliant policy at the very beginning, which worships individual freedom, built the foundation of this wonderful nation. But no community sense and caring for bigger pictures of the society and the world would not produce people who are capable to build a better world.
2. Always standing on the higher level of moral. The products are moralizer with a over simplified judgment and talking useless ideas. Students under this kind of education are not aware of the problems in the society and have some very simple and innocent ideas. Those ideas would be destroyed later by the facts they would come across and change into a suspicious attitude towards everything they are being told and come to the opposite side to understand what is going on.

The best way is telling story in the both sides objectively with a hopeful voice and transplanting a critical thinking way based on reasons and facts. Under the current society of China, I would suggest teachers move towards the first extreme, but don't go that far as Runner Fan.

The good thing is, in my opinion, probably for the first time, Chinese people begin to talk and face something so true and so cold of human nature and the current society, which is almost a forbidden issue and always gets an 'NO' sign on it. And the whole discussion online about it, to me, is such a great progress for the freedom of speech in China.

Analysis of Chinese Propaganda---History, Representations, Consequences and Concerns

2008-05-20T00:33:00.008-06:00

This article is translated excerpt from Xu Zhiyuan's column "ENTHUSIASM IN DISORDER" and I gave this excerpt piece the name in the subject line. Original Chinese source is available at http://www.ftchinese.com/sc/story.jsp?id=001018875&pos=MID_HLB&pa1=0&pa2=1&pa3=005000117&loc=SPECIAL%20REPORT

Translation has been done by me. I am not a professional translator. But read a great deal of Mr Xu. At all points I ahve sought to be as accurate to the language and spirit of Mr Xu's original text. Please feel free to leave any comments on the translation job.

All the following words are translated from Mr Xu's article:

The reaction from Chinese government and Chinese public to the turmoils in Olympic torch relay and the related worldwide media reports really concerns me. 'Wolf with a human face and the heart of a beast' is in the description of Dalai Lama in Chinese state-owned . I felt so funny---it seems like a piece of antique is displayed on a fashionable glass table. China, which claims to achieve the emergence of world power in 21st century, seems still living in the time of war among classes as Culture Revolution, or in Qing Dynasty in the middle of 19 th century---when someone has a different opinion from us, he is not even the same kind as us, but an animal.

On CCTV and portal websites of China, the propaganda is intensively going on. Chinese government might feel bewildered facing the different voices from worldwide media, but it is such a small piece of cake to control all the domestic voices. The last time I got to know the power of the propaganda was in 1999 through the suppression for Fa Lun Gong. The suppression helped this foolish, ridiculous, fake-religion movement increase its influence and, later on, pushed its leader to achieve worldwide fame he never dreamed of. It also allowed him to somehow become the symbol of freedom of religion.

This kind of propaganda can be dated back from 1942 in Yan'an (translator's note: Yan'an was Mao's base during the civil war. It might be called "Mao's Pentagon".), and was practised over and over after 1949 in China. It climbed to the climax during the Culture Revolution. When the propaganda is based on information blocking, its power is surprising---it closes people's minds, rots people's hearts, destroys the moral principles and imprints a 'self-righteous' consciousness on those subject to it. Therefore, during the violent fighting of the Cultural Revolution, both sides claimed that they believed in Mao's theory and the other side protected the bad, old theory, which deserved to any sort of brutal treatment...

But when the information gradually opened up, people found what they used to believe was just a lie, and a cynical attitude became widespread. Today, there is a game going on between propaganda agents and the public. The former continuously slides along the the track of inertia, while the later slides along a spectrum - from one end believing everything blindly to the other end believing nothing.

But fear of tyranny keeps this game alive. The public gets used to living in this open lie and forms the habit of understanding every part of official propaganda from the opposite point of view. While it looks harmonious and peaceful on the surface, it leads to a dangerous direction---the political system and the society have been seriously rotten. The government loses the ability to understand real problems under the delusion of its own propaganda, and as the propaganda goes smoothly, the government becomes numb and less capable to percieve and grasp real problems. The reaction of the government becomes less sensitive and relies more and more on inertia other than intellectual judgement or logical, rational arguments to maintain its legitimacy. The public at the same time becomes suspicious and timid---they might know what
to oppose, but they don't know what to replace the problematic area with, and they gradually lose the moral courage to say anything of substance contrary to the government. Living with lies and suspicion for such a long time also makes people lack the strength and confidence to build a better social network or structure.

The behavior of the Chinese government in regards to the conflicts in Tibet showed the result of the disease from long-term propaganda and numbness. The official voice stems from the usual principle and it moves on along the inertia even though it doesn't believe what it said itself. For the Chinese public, although they don't believe the reports from CCTV, they really don't know anything about Tibet at all. Therefore their one dimensional thinking formed by the long time
propaganda is easily touched by the TV scene that Tibetan treated Han people brutally. (translator's note: it is exactly how my mom's comments are formed about Tibetan turmoil).

Then it entered the language environment that the Chinese power organization is familiar with. For a long time, the public emotion is a prop of the government. When the relationships between China and US or China and Japan tensed, the emotion of nationalism became a card of Beijing---large scale demonstrations, which are not normally allowed, unusually appeared. For the people in the demonstrations, rather than being motivated by a real feeling of nationalism, were released from long suppressed emotion. They long for public life, but have no way to express it when demonstrations are made illegal.

I surprisingly found this old trick is still so efficient when a young women, Jin Jing, becomes the hero of China, when the boycott to Carrefour spreads to more cities, when MSN is filled with red stars, when national flags are everywhere in college dorms, when these young people claim 'I love China very much', and when I am surrounded by rants against CNN.....

I really begin to worry. I don't worry about the criticism from outside world (and I never expect the pressure from the outside would to really make China change fundamentally). The long history of China has shown that those criticisms eventually disappear: the essence of power and of the communist government has never had to change because of the success of new policies over the past 30 years leading to economic development. Its principle interest is not the future
of the nation and its people, but the stability of its own power, and it is willing to do all kinds of actions that sacrifice the wellbeing of its citizens, environment, and traditions to maintain that power.

What I am seriously worried about is that the people of this nation, especially the youth, still have a confined mind, although they consider themselves living in a globalized world and not limited by the shortage of material and information anymore. They confuse all kinds of concepts and misuse their enthusiasm. They don't know the real world and they don't have the interests to either. They are moved by the flow of intense emotions that were aroused suddenly, but they lack the ability to think critically and automatically believe what they were been told, which makes their ranting anger insane, flat and without meaning.

Sometimes, what has been happening lately indeed reminds me of some unhappy moments in history, where enthusiasm of the people was manipulated and eventually led to series of disasters.

But, were all the current reactions only caused by the events after March 14th? Don't they reveal some far deeper problems and emotions? The understanding of those problems and emotions must be dated back from a long long history. Inside of the heart of this nation, there are all kinds of inextricable knots. For quite a long time, people chose to forget them or force themselves to forget these knots, pretending they don't exist. When the critical moments come these knots will take fierce revenge on us.

What, indeed, is the history problem of Tibet? What is the political characteristic of China? And the relationship between historical memory and reality? Can economic development substitute the long time shortage of real ideology?......I found this research would be an endless hole. It is difficult to understand the current problem in Tibet without the knowledge of Tibet turmoil in 1959 or the spiritual characteristic of Dalai Lama and the belief crisis worldwide. It is also hard to understand why the Olympics are so important to China without the understanding of the legitimate foundation of politics. It would be impossible to understand the thinking pattern and language usage of Chinese people without the study of Mao's time; It would be also impossible to understand the emotion of Chinese youth without the knowledge of how Chinese youth elite awoke Chinese nationalism in the early 20 th century......

Those studies and discussions might not solve any particular problems, but at least they can provide us with standards regarding the expression of emotions. In many occasions, what gives me greatest unease is not the language or action of criticism, attack, arguments, or debate are based upon, but that their level is too low.