Will this article be translated into Chinese? I'd like to forward it to friends in China...
6
China's schizophrenic personality is a direct result of two factors - it's continued insularity on the one hand and it's economic expansion on the other. Internalized imperatives and a single party de facto dictatorship keep it as inward looking (or even more so) as it was a thousand years ago. Economic and industrial expansion have forced it to engage the rest of the world. It has tried to force feed its own citizens a narrative of sustainable growth driven by local ingenuity while importing ideas, concepts, designs and entire indutrial models from the west. When students travel to the west, they get to experience the reality outside of the comminist party narrative .... it is a shock to their systems. That's one reason why they do not know how to discuss issues like Tibet, the Uighurs or the fact of tremendous air and water pollution in their homeland.
4
"Chinese nitezens on internet loudly praise American
system of government".
Glad somebody likes our government that includes
republicans as well as the big campaign donations
from the wall street, big pharma and NRA. May be
Chinese know something we don't.
system of government".
Glad somebody likes our government that includes
republicans as well as the big campaign donations
from the wall street, big pharma and NRA. May be
Chinese know something we don't.
3
Don't think I have ever met a Chinese patriot. They cheer during the Olympics but don't care about building a prosperous middle class. I once told a Chinese banker friend that China could have a great future as the working age population declines and service jobs increase to take care of the aged, wages would rise and a real broad middle class would develop. My friend said that would be a terrible thing to happen. If wages rose, how would China be able to continue as a inexpensive export country. In other words, the Chinese elite want the poor to remain poor so they can be taken advantage of.
4
Isn't it possible to hate the American Empire but to love the ideals of America?
10
Heres's a potential quick solution: cut off all work and study visas for Party members and their families. If that doesn't work, cut them off, period.
6
AS in Mexicans going into US WITHOUT papers????
It s working???? Right????
It s working???? Right????
I think we all have a love hate relationship with the US of A. It is not just one select group of people.
I love this country, and would gladly fight for it again, no questions asked.
I hate what it has become, a PC land where bloggers bring companies down with a web post, buses with 'nongmo100%organickoshervegan' snacks are served to the rich commuters and the regular folk, well you can catch the public bus; magazines devoted to Kim Kardashian worship, FOX News and CNN, broken government full of corruption called 'lobbying', legal street drugs, and kids being drugged by psychiatry.
However, despite all of that, I love this country, I love her people (most of them anyway), and I would never live anywhere else. I know am not the only one who feels this way.
I love this country, and would gladly fight for it again, no questions asked.
I hate what it has become, a PC land where bloggers bring companies down with a web post, buses with 'nongmo100%organickoshervegan' snacks are served to the rich commuters and the regular folk, well you can catch the public bus; magazines devoted to Kim Kardashian worship, FOX News and CNN, broken government full of corruption called 'lobbying', legal street drugs, and kids being drugged by psychiatry.
However, despite all of that, I love this country, I love her people (most of them anyway), and I would never live anywhere else. I know am not the only one who feels this way.
10
I know many chinese in NYC. They are certainly not perfect but take an objective view of America, ie..basically love it but can't stand when it is wrong, specifically with it still fighting the cold war.
I would add our de facto criminal health care system (pre ACA) and our cultural gun sickness that results in 100k+ gun deaths/injuries a year.
Otherwise America is the envy of the world.
I would add our de facto criminal health care system (pre ACA) and our cultural gun sickness that results in 100k+ gun deaths/injuries a year.
Otherwise America is the envy of the world.
8
That "the elites have no problem taking advantage of what America has to offer" while the leadership under Xi castigates the American way of life and curbs Western-style civil and political liberties, is hypocrisy. They shouldn't be coming to the US at all and should stay at home. Yet once they are in America, they want to make themselves feel at home. It's not right!
17
The American ingenuity and attitude to the hate from the Chinese it is concerning. I've worked with many Chinese, they hate USA & will do whatever it take to bring USA down. However, they would love living here with all the benefits of our society. They're jealous & envy a more sophisticated society. Somehow these makes them angry & can not stand it. They recognize & agree that the Chinese government indoctrinates everybody to steal as much as possible to make China stronger. The whole culture of corruption, cynicism and deceitfulness is perturbing. It would be nice the world realize that they work under different values & that their mentality of dog eats dog prevails. Somehow they can't stand others to be better than them, this is not new it is China's history. The whole system is an oxymoron because the leaders of the authoritarian regimen in power are rich and keeps the rest poor.
21
I moved out......twelve years ago when I was 58 after a life of unnecessary wars, corrupt politicians and an electorate too obtuse to vote in their own best interest.
America's violent gun culture is the ultimate test of a dysfunctional government that is incapable of protecting it's own citizens from mass murder.
My only regret in leaving America is that the treaty between France and the United States requires that I continue to pay all my income taxes to the USA for the rest of my life.
America's violent gun culture is the ultimate test of a dysfunctional government that is incapable of protecting it's own citizens from mass murder.
My only regret in leaving America is that the treaty between France and the United States requires that I continue to pay all my income taxes to the USA for the rest of my life.
7
Valuable article. We can't lose sight of two things:
1. Chinese censorship and coercive government actions against those (Chinese) who speak their mind is not a cultural norm, rather they are unjust tools by which the current government dominates its people. While the US has failings, freedom of speech is one thing we (and other Western countries) got right. Our leaders shouldn't be quiet about this abuse, for the sake of "good relations"; despite what the Chinese gov't claims, freedom of expression is a "universal value". Similarly, the media needs to drop vague references to "human rights" and use terminology people can understand--freedom of speech.
2. Citizens of virtually every country generally support their county in its military actions against anywhere else. "We" want to win, and don't want to lose--the simple fact that people in a given country identify as one, carries over to having common fears and goals vis-a-vis other countries. That will not go away, in China, the US, or elsewhere.
The fact that the Chinese government is using coercive actions, together with natural, nationalistic tendencies to root for the home team, to its advantage is not surprising. But we shouldn't give them a pass on the former. Propaganda, media and personal interactions do matter in how the world develops, for better or worse.
1. Chinese censorship and coercive government actions against those (Chinese) who speak their mind is not a cultural norm, rather they are unjust tools by which the current government dominates its people. While the US has failings, freedom of speech is one thing we (and other Western countries) got right. Our leaders shouldn't be quiet about this abuse, for the sake of "good relations"; despite what the Chinese gov't claims, freedom of expression is a "universal value". Similarly, the media needs to drop vague references to "human rights" and use terminology people can understand--freedom of speech.
2. Citizens of virtually every country generally support their county in its military actions against anywhere else. "We" want to win, and don't want to lose--the simple fact that people in a given country identify as one, carries over to having common fears and goals vis-a-vis other countries. That will not go away, in China, the US, or elsewhere.
The fact that the Chinese government is using coercive actions, together with natural, nationalistic tendencies to root for the home team, to its advantage is not surprising. But we shouldn't give them a pass on the former. Propaganda, media and personal interactions do matter in how the world develops, for better or worse.
5
It's possible that the slogans are misinterpreted from this side of the ocean. "Death to America" in Iran for example means death to the US gov't, not to American citizens.
3
Having done business in China, I can tell you that I loved interacting with the Chinese people on a personal basis. Doing business with their government is a different story.
3
An excellent editorial! Thank you Murong Xuecun. I experience the phenomon he describes almost on a daily basis. For the past 12 years, I have worked in the PRC on IP enforcement matters - mostly for American companies. It's hard not to become pessimistic at times and to avoid feeling that the cards are not always unfairly stacked against you. In reality, the environment can probably best be described as very difficult but far from impossible. At the same time, I must emphasize how my everyday interaction with my friends and colleagues is one of the great joys of my life. I fear that the times ahead for China and the US may become even more challenging. We must strive towards that which unites us. I need to keep telling myself that.
8
There is nothing complex in this seeming love-hate dilemma. You admire a country so much that you want your country to become like that. On the other hand, the Chinese are proud people( not because of the Party's propaganda at all), they want to be friend of US, but not subordinate. The so-called hatred is merely a self-defending response to humiliations on the world stage sometimes coming from US. The Chinese can admire how US government treats its own citizens, at the same time they are entitled to hate how US government undermines their national interests, if this truly happens.
2
"In everyday conversation these people might be ashamed of China’s human rights record and our political situation... when a foreign government or organization (from no matter what country) criticizes the Chinese system, they become defensive."
This attitude that "I can criticize my own brothers and sisters, but will take offence when outsiders criticize them" is quite universal and not difficult to understand. Actually, according to my mom, one of the most important things her mom told her just before she married my father was that: "Your husband can criticize his own brothers or sisters as much as he wants, but you should not be tempted to chime in and criticize HIS brothers or sisters. He will more likely than not get offended if you criticize the in-laws. If you don't have any good thing to say about them, then don't say anything. Let him do the criticism of his own siblings."
This attitude that "I can criticize my own brothers and sisters, but will take offence when outsiders criticize them" is quite universal and not difficult to understand. Actually, according to my mom, one of the most important things her mom told her just before she married my father was that: "Your husband can criticize his own brothers or sisters as much as he wants, but you should not be tempted to chime in and criticize HIS brothers or sisters. He will more likely than not get offended if you criticize the in-laws. If you don't have any good thing to say about them, then don't say anything. Let him do the criticism of his own siblings."
3
Thank You for your well written article. Having watched the Chinese for 50+ years it's more clear than ever that racism is the only thing that scares them about America. Racism towards them as Orientals. As more and more of the old folks die off so will the stigma that those old folks attached to them. Proudly I'm the grandfather of a half Japanese son and soon granddaughter...
3
One thing I've noticed over the years - there's no lack of curiosity and often admiration for the United States amongst the Chinese people, especially those with a good knowledge of history. But there's a wariness to express that in public, or in any place that's not assuredly safe from prying eyes and especially (usually electronic) ears. Much like the sentiment in the old Russian expression that translates to 'The walls have ears and the night has eyes', and very much for the same reason: Government policy that tries to keep citizens from seeking freedom of expression. That's why Chinese who study in the States often persist in showing a reluctance to say anything positive about features that go beyond the superficial, especially if there's any chance at political interpretation back home. It's important to remember that if you're Chinese, being born in China makes you a citizen there for life regardless of where you might be naturalised - and thus forever subject to its laws. As in any inopportune remark possibly coming back to bite you, no matter where it was made, if you ever set foot back on Chinese soil - even for a short visit. Say what the regime considers to be the wrong thing, and a short visit can suddenly turn very long and, to put it mildly, uncomfortable.
3
I believe there is about the same amount of paranoia in America towards China as this article portrays of China towards America. I could easily go on rants of what I object to about both governments - but as an American who has lived in China several times over years, I am impressed by the people and culture and the welcome I have received. Maybe someday both governments will dispose of their need for an external enemy and we will find out just how constructive our relationship can be, this I hope for.
4
In you and similar-minded Americans lies the hope for US and China to work for the betterment of mankind on this lonely planet.
3
I think they are on to something actually. So often in this country, we see what we want to see. America is either this big beautiful land, or this evil, incompetent, and morally bankrupt society. And either way we look at it, we are right. America is both these things. It's done a lot of bad in the world, and a lot of good. There are a lot of opportunities here, and also a lot of inequality. Though we fare better than many other places in the world in lots of things, we are still doing pretty bad in lots of areas to. We are imperialist, but we have also done a lot to spread democracy around the world, even if many times this was just a guise for our imperialist actions, there has still been positive effects. I see America as this great, bumbling, monstrous, magnificent behemoth, as ugly as it is beautiful.
6
Good article! My comments are:
1. Even if you live in a dictatorship, it seems odd to be happy if 3000 civilians in your arch-enemy country are killed. I wouldn't be happy if a terrorist killed 3000 Chinese civilians no matter what their government is like.
2. I wish the people from all over the world that come to live in the US would come here because they want to be here and prefer our system and not just for the job and to see the sights. Also, I do wish they'd try harder to learn the language and assimilate. My grandparents didn't send my parents to European school on the weekends even though it seems like all the Asian parents do that now. I think a large part of the anti-immigrant feeling in the US would go away if more immigrants tried harder to learn the language and fit in. I should do the same if I move elsewhere, too. If you're going overseas, try to learn some phrases to at least give the appearance of trying to make the effort. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
1. Even if you live in a dictatorship, it seems odd to be happy if 3000 civilians in your arch-enemy country are killed. I wouldn't be happy if a terrorist killed 3000 Chinese civilians no matter what their government is like.
2. I wish the people from all over the world that come to live in the US would come here because they want to be here and prefer our system and not just for the job and to see the sights. Also, I do wish they'd try harder to learn the language and assimilate. My grandparents didn't send my parents to European school on the weekends even though it seems like all the Asian parents do that now. I think a large part of the anti-immigrant feeling in the US would go away if more immigrants tried harder to learn the language and fit in. I should do the same if I move elsewhere, too. If you're going overseas, try to learn some phrases to at least give the appearance of trying to make the effort. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
2
I agree with your first point, but not with the second one. Actually a lot of parents who come here from Italy, Greece etc encourage their kids to learn Italian and Greek alongside English for the same reason Chinese parents do: because despite their admiration for the US, they're proud of their cultural heritage and don't want it to be lost in the melting pot. There are a lot of great things about this country, but for all its economic and natural richness, it is culturally poor compared to countries like Greece, China, Italy, Ireland etc that have cuktures going back thousands of years.
3
And don't blame immigrants for xenophobia. Xenophobia exists because of ignorant and bigoted people in this country, particularly those who have abandoned their ethnic identity to adopt a shallow American one.
2
Indeed there is the perception of the US and China being at odds with one another.
However, the world needs both China and the US if there is going to be progress in this world.
Take out the politics and we would possibly have great forces and power for good instead of countries wasting billions of dollars in armaments that may not have to be used.
There is only one word that will progress the US , China and the rest of the world and that is TRUST.
There is no country to country agreement no matter how hard the handshake, if trust does not go along with it.
Those who want to spread negative propaganda work on this in word and media.
Fear is a great way to make people distrust.
The USA has set ideals how the world should be their way and of course there are countries such as China would disagree.
The fact is both may be right because different countries suit different policies and beliefs.
As an example we could not establish Christianity in Muslim countries.
So the bottom line is that we need more personal connection at the top and more trust in each other.
And we need to put Trust into practice not just words.
China and the USA have recently got together with an agreement to reduce pollution levels for the common good.
If we can trust both to do this then it is a great beginning of trust.
STAN CHUN
Wellington
New Zealand
However, the world needs both China and the US if there is going to be progress in this world.
Take out the politics and we would possibly have great forces and power for good instead of countries wasting billions of dollars in armaments that may not have to be used.
There is only one word that will progress the US , China and the rest of the world and that is TRUST.
There is no country to country agreement no matter how hard the handshake, if trust does not go along with it.
Those who want to spread negative propaganda work on this in word and media.
Fear is a great way to make people distrust.
The USA has set ideals how the world should be their way and of course there are countries such as China would disagree.
The fact is both may be right because different countries suit different policies and beliefs.
As an example we could not establish Christianity in Muslim countries.
So the bottom line is that we need more personal connection at the top and more trust in each other.
And we need to put Trust into practice not just words.
China and the USA have recently got together with an agreement to reduce pollution levels for the common good.
If we can trust both to do this then it is a great beginning of trust.
STAN CHUN
Wellington
New Zealand
3
The Chinese say America wants to "break up" China. Well, considering that we would have preferred that Hong Kong remain independent, that many of us wan to to "Free Tibet", that none of us want to see Taiwan absorbed, or the South China Sea colonized with artificial islands ... we do kinda want to break up what the Chinese see as "China." And as to wanting to dominate China ... do we want to make China do what WE want China to do?
So I can't say that documentary is entire crazy if it makes those assertions.
That's the problem with half-truths. And we get a lot of them all the time. Because complete truths are always very complex.
So I can't say that documentary is entire crazy if it makes those assertions.
That's the problem with half-truths. And we get a lot of them all the time. Because complete truths are always very complex.
7
Writer very eloquently -- and accurately -- describes the conflicting feelings in how Chinese view the US. Face to face, Chinese and Americans get along well. Let's hope friendship wins out.
2
You have to feel a little sorry for the average Chinese citizen. What they see in the media about America and what their government tells them are 2 different stories. They see a place that is much nicer then where the average person can live yet all they hear from governmental authorities is how America is going to destroy them. The richest Chinese all are either in the government or have family and contact. The richest Americans actually own the politicians so I think the rich will all get along.
1
The misuse of the word schizophrenic jumps out at me. Many people throw this word around as if they knew what it meant. Obviously they don't. Stop.
1
It is easy to let our feelings as individuals get coopted by propaganda and fear.
China and America should be the greatest of allies, learning from each other, standing up for one another, navigating history together.
The Chinese natives that I have met in my lifetime have been amongst the most decent, caring, and lovely individuals on Earth.
The people need to look past propaganda and toward a shared humanity.
China and America should be the greatest of allies, learning from each other, standing up for one another, navigating history together.
The Chinese natives that I have met in my lifetime have been amongst the most decent, caring, and lovely individuals on Earth.
The people need to look past propaganda and toward a shared humanity.
1
People abroad love "We the People" America, but hate its government.
Not much different than us here.
Not much different than us here.
1
I recall a report from China in The New Yorker just after Sept. 11, 2001, that mentioned a woman who said the attacks had made her so excited she couldn’t sleep. A historically insular country with a congenital sense of both superiority and inferiority, forcibly fed epic amounts of government propaganda, can’t be expected to have entirely rational views of the outside world – even if so many Chinese eventually seem to come around and want to study, if not live, here. At the same time it’s hard to imagine Americans, even in the depths of the Cold War and Red Scare, cheering the deaths of innocent citizens of the Soviet Union; or of Iranian or North Korean civilians in this day and age. Those are all repressive places; maybe we feel an innate sympathy toward them that people in less free countries can’t muster for us, replaced as it might have been by a chronic and instinctive envy.
5
What I find most disturbing is that China's government has cultivated an aggrieved nationalism and sense of eternal victimization so fervent that the young man in Tiananmen Square would praise the murder of thousands of innocent people. History is replete with examples of what happens when people are taught to view some outside group as an implacable threat and its members' lives as worthless, not to mention examples of Chinese people exploding into violent rage at any real or perceived national slight. I wonder if the CCP realizes the dangers of cultivating such such attitudes, especially when people like that young man or the people I've heard express desire to nuke Japan in revenge for WWII become politicians.
5
It is commonly seen two-way propaganda going back and forth between two countries, as a result, general public's perspective of getting to know somebody with different nationality is limited on the label that was crafted through propaganda. However, I personally would like to view diplomatic relationship between two counties and personal relationships between the people of two countries as two separate issues. It is not saying that two issues wouldn't impact each other, but only try to minimize impacts of two-way propagandas on how I personally connect to people who are different from me.
1
As a Chinese, I'd say this article is so biased and untrue - very few Chinese holds such extreme feelings towards the U.S. - NYT just loves depicting China as an enemy. What's the point? we are really not that different in the end and we can get along just fine.
3
And some Americans--even fairly old ones like me--are fascinated by China, are trying to learn at least some Mandarin, are studying its history, and also understand that American foreign policy is often belligerent and aggressive. And we also understand something that many American politicians and pundits seem unable to grasp--China has its own national interests, which often diverge from our own. And all of this is perfectly normal, and with sensible leadership (!) should be quite manageable.
Two weeks ago Chris Buckley wrote this same article in the Times. I think we get the message. The Chinese hate us as much as they love us.
The sooner we get off Mideast oil and Chinese consumer goods the better.
The sooner we get off Mideast oil and Chinese consumer goods the better.
3
As a few other commenters already pointed out, this article missed a critical point: There is a difference in liking American people and culture and liking the US government policies.
To make the point clear, the writer may try answering the following questions:
1. Is it a good idea to shut down the government because of political fight? That happened in the past and may happen again.
2. Regarding the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, are those good wars?
There seems to be no contradiction between loving American people/culture and disliking the US government policies. That's consistent with the attitude of many people in the US.
To make the point clear, the writer may try answering the following questions:
1. Is it a good idea to shut down the government because of political fight? That happened in the past and may happen again.
2. Regarding the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, are those good wars?
There seems to be no contradiction between loving American people/culture and disliking the US government policies. That's consistent with the attitude of many people in the US.
3
Missing in this article and the comments posted below is one key aspect of Chinese culture/behavior. By and large the Chinese people from mainland China are not curious about other cultures. This is probably because they have been taught that a few centuries back China was the center of the world, and it is again going to be so. Go to any University and you will find that Chinese students hang aound one another all the time. Talk politics with them and you will find that they are unwilling to say anything bad about their country to a nonChinese.
2
There are many things in China that are schizophrenic. Capitalism vs communism, incivility vs the socialist ideal and peoples views on the world outside of China vs the status symbol of overseas travel. Notions of unquestionable love for the "Motherland" is every present in China. To not "love" mother or the "motherland"even when she has done something really awful is nearly impossible. Hence, the constant conflict in China's society. There are no ways to "vent" about your mother's misdeeds, censorship discourages any "tantrums"..so sentiment remains bottled up. One day, that bottle could explode.
2
The last time the Americans and Chinese traded gunfire, China was invading South Korea. It's been 60 years. Before that, Americans sent untold treasure and their own flesh and blood to help rid the Chinese of the pestilence that was the Japanese invasion of China. The building of the Burma Road, Claire Chenault and the Flying Tigers, went into history on the side of freeing China from the savagery of Japanese occupation. Chinese citizens helped hide and spirit to freedom the Doolittle raiders who crash-landed on their soil after bombing Tokyo.
Talk about American "imperialism" and "hegemony" insofar as hostility towards China is concerned is just that- talk. What matters is that people vote with their feet. How is it that so many Chinese relish the opportunity to come to the US, even temporarily, to experience its academic and political freedom?
We don't need laws here preventing US citizens from freely traveling to China. Can the Chinese government make the same claim? That's all you really need to know.
Talk about American "imperialism" and "hegemony" insofar as hostility towards China is concerned is just that- talk. What matters is that people vote with their feet. How is it that so many Chinese relish the opportunity to come to the US, even temporarily, to experience its academic and political freedom?
We don't need laws here preventing US citizens from freely traveling to China. Can the Chinese government make the same claim? That's all you really need to know.
3
Those who think that the children of the Chinese high government officials who study here will help shape and correct perceptions of this country need to look at the example of Kim Jong-Un. His "friends" at the Swiss boarding school he attended considered him to be a normal kid who liked computer games and basketball. These children of the Chinese elite will use the education here to enrich themselves and perpetuate the anti-American system that enriches and keeps them in power.
3
We Americans, with no experience with censorship, have trouble understanding the effect that strong, determined government control of information can have. In Beijing, for instance, the New York Times is not available on-line - the Web site is blocked. As are Web sites for Western blogs, like Word Press. You can't get You Tube, either. Any Google search that uses trigger words, or that seems to the censorship machine that it might produce undesirable results, is blocked.
I spent two weeks in Beijing as a tourist and had my access to information substantially restricted. But I had the benefit of an American education before going to China. Growing up in China, getting a government-controlled education, and bringing only that level of awareness to scrutiny of Chinese government propaganda must impose nearly insurmountable obstacles to a real understanding of the outside world.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
I spent two weeks in Beijing as a tourist and had my access to information substantially restricted. But I had the benefit of an American education before going to China. Growing up in China, getting a government-controlled education, and bringing only that level of awareness to scrutiny of Chinese government propaganda must impose nearly insurmountable obstacles to a real understanding of the outside world.
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
7
Re. China and Russia, the Chinese view is that history will prevail and Russia will again become a vassal state providing a varied of natural resources and other treasures as appropriate for its subordinate position
2
The US won't have to do anything to knock China down; they are doing a great job of that, themselves. Interesting that some Chinese "love" the US, because I'm pretty sure that few Americans "love" China. You just don't see migrants clamoring to break into China. There's a reason for that.
7
I hope as many as Chinese visitors enjoy the visits here, since their positive experiences will create 10-20 times of more friends of America in their hometown, in spite of the government propaganda.
1
It's interesting that NYT employs those liberals that try to blacken Chinese view of U.S. in order to antagonize American's view of China. It's not surprising with 1.3 billion people you can always find some that approve of the tragedy of 9/11. Mr. Murong didn't identify the Chinese TV network as belonging to government such as CCTV which obviously he can't. He only implied to mislead. It's unfortunate such so called democrats and liberals serve the agenda of neocons that China is evil and should be opposed at all cost. Chinese in America is a diverse group with generally positive view of U.S..
1
The very foundation of the modern Chinese attitude towards politics seems to this American to be schizophrenic, and for good reason. As a Chinese friend of mine (who came here to study journalism at a school run by a sinophile) said to me about communism: "Ohh... nobody believes in that anymore... you just study it if you want to get into a government job." She laughed heartily, and it was by far the most critical she ever was around me of her own government. The rest of the time she acted like I might report on her to Beijing. A deep reticence had been inculcated in her- about all controversial issues.
Based on my single semester of early Chinese history, I believe that this attitude didn't begin when disillusionment with communism set in. China doesn't have a democratic tradition- it has a reverence for authority, both the Confucian scholar and the strong unifying political leader. Unity has brought peace and the chance to live a decent life. Disagreement and factionalism mostly brought war and despair. As a result, the Chinese temperament has been forged to keep personal objections private until it is emotionally intolerable to contain them, and when these objections burst forth they are almost always about practical matters, not abstract ideals.
Americans need to be aware of this generalization when we interact with Chinese. We often jump right into subjects that they think of as properly viewed with a "schizophrenic" attitude, without doubting our way is best.
Based on my single semester of early Chinese history, I believe that this attitude didn't begin when disillusionment with communism set in. China doesn't have a democratic tradition- it has a reverence for authority, both the Confucian scholar and the strong unifying political leader. Unity has brought peace and the chance to live a decent life. Disagreement and factionalism mostly brought war and despair. As a result, the Chinese temperament has been forged to keep personal objections private until it is emotionally intolerable to contain them, and when these objections burst forth they are almost always about practical matters, not abstract ideals.
Americans need to be aware of this generalization when we interact with Chinese. We often jump right into subjects that they think of as properly viewed with a "schizophrenic" attitude, without doubting our way is best.
2
Our freedom and democracy, though flawed, are still a beacon for the rest of the world. We need to let that beacon shine, and not from behind a wall or a gun.
5
Uh no. My wife is mainland chinese and I know China very well. Democracy and Freedom as practised in the USA is actually an impediment to these things in the rest of the world - the Chinese do not want human rights or democracy as practised in the USA. The model is Europe and the other Anglo-saxon democracies.
What the USA represents to many Chinese is the ability to get ahead more than they could in China. In many ways the USA is just an extension of what they can get in China just with less pollution, less corruption, and the ability to say what you like. The more individualistic aspects of American culture are - and always will be - anathema to the Chinese; a moral and cultural death.
What the USA represents to many Chinese is the ability to get ahead more than they could in China. In many ways the USA is just an extension of what they can get in China just with less pollution, less corruption, and the ability to say what you like. The more individualistic aspects of American culture are - and always will be - anathema to the Chinese; a moral and cultural death.
Many commenters skipped the writer's bio.
"Murong Xuecun (慕容雪村) became a contributing opinion writer for The International New York Times in the fall of 2013. Murong Xuecun is the nom de plume of Hao Qun, one of China’s first Internet-based writers. A prominent social critic, he is known for his defense of freedom of expression. He had about 8.5 million followers on Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter, before censors shut down his accounts in May 2013."
"Murong Xuecun (慕容雪村) became a contributing opinion writer for The International New York Times in the fall of 2013. Murong Xuecun is the nom de plume of Hao Qun, one of China’s first Internet-based writers. A prominent social critic, he is known for his defense of freedom of expression. He had about 8.5 million followers on Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter, before censors shut down his accounts in May 2013."
14
I was raised during WWII when the Chinese were portrayed as heroes resisting the Japanese. It didn't hurt that Chinese restaurants were my favorites - not the least because the waiters spoiled me shamelessly. Throughout the Cold War my affection for all things Chinese persisted, but that was nothing new to the US - since Clipper Ships days Chinese culture was admired.
One of my daughters just came back from working a year in Beijing and she shares my affection for China. Aside from the government and pollution there is a lot to like. My daughter keeps up with her Chinese friends and has gotten together with some here and in Europe. The future of Chinese American relations does in fact rest on people.
One of my daughters just came back from working a year in Beijing and she shares my affection for China. Aside from the government and pollution there is a lot to like. My daughter keeps up with her Chinese friends and has gotten together with some here and in Europe. The future of Chinese American relations does in fact rest on people.
25
Bridgewater - the $200 Billion Hedge Fund - is very bullish on China. That is because the American 1% has a lot in common with China's Communist Party, which has 75 billionaires running it (http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2012-02-26/china-s-billionaire-la.... Ray Dalio, the fund's head, raves about China's 'five year planning' on cable TV while he hides the money stolen from both the Chinese and American working people. It is not only the Chinese people being manipulated. We Americans are too, and to think otherwise in naive.
19
Really? The five year planning is what gets him excited? While he likely funds the gridlock in our Congress that threatens a constitutional crisis, if not a disinvestment in our own nation, on the basis of 'getting government off our backs'? That's a billionaire that doesn't deserve the good fortune his own country made possible. The IRS should open a 'special' tax bracket, valid for just five years, just for him...at a 99% rate.
The Chinese citizen view a country's government and a country's citizens entirely differently. While it is true that many Chinese take a dim view of our government, most (urban) Chinese do not hold the same opinion of us - the U.S. citizen.
My wife and I lived in Shanghai for several years and saw a lot of this. We had, and have, many Chinese friends and we got along just fine in Shanghai.
Most Americans, unfortunately, judge a people only by their government.
R Wendell Harwell
My wife and I lived in Shanghai for several years and saw a lot of this. We had, and have, many Chinese friends and we got along just fine in Shanghai.
Most Americans, unfortunately, judge a people only by their government.
R Wendell Harwell
35
That is the way with all dictatorships, lie to the people about a perceived enemy.
1
Thanks for that, a very profound observation.
"Schizophrenic"?
No.
Shame.
No.
Shame.
1
It is the opposite in India. I am back in India after 30 years of overseas living, 27 of which was in the US. I, as a social scientist, am fully aware of the problems of the US, and was way before media caught on and uses it for headlines news and provocation or propaganda. In India people think all of America is Silicon Valley, and every Indian in the US is a Nadella (that guy in Cloud computing with Microsoft) or Nadella-gonnSa-be. Their admiration, adoration and adulation of the US is at times a bit much for someone who knows about American poverty, disparity, gun violence, racism, middle class struggles, illegal immigration, incompetent legislature, not-very-action-oriented Congress, corruption in high places, difficulties for new families, mental health problems, cuts in social services and not enough culturally sensitive social programs...But Indians consume American-style SUVs, Pepsi, Pizza, Jeans, Rap...thinking they are consuming the best of the US. They are not taking American directness and forthrightness in communication, emphasis on ethics, public morality (separate from personal morality), humor, respect for laws, politeness in doing business, gender equality, etc. In India people are so enamored by the US they are taking a lot of American junk, garbage and stuff Americans don't like or care for...including certain social, cultural and psychological dysfunctionalities. What a difference these two countries are.
16
Would be a bit surprised if this is true...have heard from many Indian American friends that anti-America sentiment actually runs a bit high in India. Not towards American individuals per se, just towards our government and some of our policies. When they came to the US to study they were a little surprised Americans think of Indians as great international allies (our instinctive reaction towards a fellow democracy, perhaps) when that sentiment is really not shared in their country.
2
As a short-term (4-yr) resident of the PR China, and a lifelong Sinophile, I greatly appreciate this article. I married a brilliant, wonderful Chinese National who was tragically shunted aside in Eastern Hunan due to the blatant gender and ethnic discrimination that works to China's harm.
I suspect Mr. Xuecun could also help illuminate the pre-Communist influences that add to this inner tension in Sino-U.S. relations. For example, I notice that as a group culture, a certain distrust and denigration of all "outside" groups is pervasive. What seems like xenophobia in the extremely individualistic culture of the U.S. seems part of the mortar that holds group identities together.
Also, Chinese national identity relies to a large extent on China's glorious past (as it should). For some reason, that past state is viewed by every generation as China's birthright, with today's economic, social, and political struggles seen as both an aberration and a source of great shame. Denigrating a much younger nation that is clearly stronger in many surface ways seems to take some of the edge off that shame. I would suggest a better path is to speak highly of Chinese spiritual, intellectual, and contemplative traditions, where most of us in the West can learn a lot. But that is also complicated under Socialist dictatorship.
I suspect Mr. Xuecun could also help illuminate the pre-Communist influences that add to this inner tension in Sino-U.S. relations. For example, I notice that as a group culture, a certain distrust and denigration of all "outside" groups is pervasive. What seems like xenophobia in the extremely individualistic culture of the U.S. seems part of the mortar that holds group identities together.
Also, Chinese national identity relies to a large extent on China's glorious past (as it should). For some reason, that past state is viewed by every generation as China's birthright, with today's economic, social, and political struggles seen as both an aberration and a source of great shame. Denigrating a much younger nation that is clearly stronger in many surface ways seems to take some of the edge off that shame. I would suggest a better path is to speak highly of Chinese spiritual, intellectual, and contemplative traditions, where most of us in the West can learn a lot. But that is also complicated under Socialist dictatorship.
4
This is a surprise? This is the same way many of us (Americans) think about ourselves.
2
Working in law enforcement and seeing literally thousands of Chinese nationals arriving at the world's second busiest airport daily, I can say that Chinese criminals are a serious threat to the United States. Many of these arrivals come here to work as prostitutes in massage parlors and elsewhere, since whoring is not considered distasteful in Asian cultures as it may be here. The men often attempt to bring weapons ranging from brass knucks to guns into the USA and engage in all manner of criminal activity both against their fellow Chinese and Americans. China covets the Great Lakes for their potable water and will sell what is left of its celestial soul in order to have this invaluable source for its own. When China decides it has sucked enough of the USA's wealth out, it will probably allow its favourite puppet North Korea to do the honours and destroy the USA with ICBMs. Unless we preempt this first, of course.
5
Dear Chinese: Our apologies, we cut mental health funding in our country in the '80s and many of these individuals have popped up on the internet as trolls. Also they apparently carry guns as security guards in our airports!
This post seems paranoid. So, the U.S. is this poor helpless country that China easily exploits? Exactly how are the Chinese going to transfer the Great Lakes? Depicting North Korea as the source of our destruction is truly weird. We have quite a few ICBSs of our own. Don't you think we might retaliate?
As I said, a very strange post.
As I said, a very strange post.
1
American exceptionalism on parade!
This article misses one clear distinction that explains the so-called schizophrenia: there is a massive difference between the US governemnt's foreign policies, and the actual day-to-day life of the average resident of the US.
And its not just China that makes this distinction. As a Canadian, we sometimes take great exception to US government policies and resent its imperialist behavior towards Canada, and our invisibility in the minds of its media and citizens, with a significant measure of anti-Americanism, and yet we love living, working, shopping, vacationing here, love American consumer products and entertainment.
Schizophrenia? No. Just able to separate government policy from life as lived.
And its not just China that makes this distinction. As a Canadian, we sometimes take great exception to US government policies and resent its imperialist behavior towards Canada, and our invisibility in the minds of its media and citizens, with a significant measure of anti-Americanism, and yet we love living, working, shopping, vacationing here, love American consumer products and entertainment.
Schizophrenia? No. Just able to separate government policy from life as lived.
31
It doesn't surprise me that certain foreigners feel that way, (although it seems foolish and PC to me that we welcome people of known anti-American cultures here). I am so tired of making nice to people that hate us.
What is more disappointing is that this article could more aptly been written about and called "A Land Liberals Hate". Not that conservatives are superior, but at least we don't trash our country. It would be nice, for once, to read something positive about our great country from a left-leaning person. Progressives seem only to write negatives about this country and their fellow Americans.
What is more disappointing is that this article could more aptly been written about and called "A Land Liberals Hate". Not that conservatives are superior, but at least we don't trash our country. It would be nice, for once, to read something positive about our great country from a left-leaning person. Progressives seem only to write negatives about this country and their fellow Americans.
6
And an ostrich thinks that by burying its head in the sand, it won't be hit by that semi coming its way....
6
Hey George, I'm a liberal and I agree with you 100%. It's been a long time since I've heard anything nice said about our country here in San Francisco.
No schizophrenia here in the US regarding China's economic migrants: we don't need or want them. We are a modern country that values liberty, individualism, and freedom. I don't think any Chinese citizen can teach us much on those topics. Our country is already crowded and under great stresses; please clean up your own country, literally and figuratively. Please work on the China dream; don't corrupt or dilute the American dream.
7
Hey Bill, you native american by any chance? I'd be surprised, if so?
16
Your garden variety Ugly American, characterized by ignorance and bias. No wonder the American Dream is dying.
Besides building the railroads, mining gold and developing agriculture in California, the Chinese have not done too much that comes to mind. You should go to China and witness a 20 story building go up in 3 months, you might learn something. You speak for a few, not many.
When you consider that many American institutions still sell Freedom Fries instead of French Fries - it's easy to see how willing average citizens are to accept another country (even a US ally as strong as France) as the enemy.
3
They do ? In "there abouts?"
5
I hear the same opinions of 'America' (what about the rest of the continents' countries?) voiced by my wife's relatives in Brasil. Yet, they would be here if the Real was worth enough that they could afford a ticket.
8
Paul, they'll be in your living room soon enough. I'm sure you'll charge them rent.
From another of today's NYTimes articles: In 1856, the Californian Committee on Mines and Mining Interests declared the Chinese ‘‘a disgusting scab upon the fair face of society — a putrefying sore upon the body politic.’’
2
There is an element to this dichotomy that author Xuecun misses altogether , referred to by commenter Don Shipp in a " NYT Pick " - - - the almost universal silence from Chinese citizens living in America when queried about their government and its policies . I do not believe it stems from " compartmentalization " , but rather from a lack of interest . The educated class in China feels completely disenfranchised by its secretive / opaque government that spouts platitudes to its ( by design ) non- participatory citizenry .
I personally have witnessed this disconnect weekly . My wife , a Chinese citizen , teaches yoga classes every week in our home . All students are Chinese females - - - students , teachers , workers and housewives . Some are permanent residents while the rest will return to China . On Sundays after class we have a pot luck meal together and I question them about subjects I read about in NYT's " Sinosphere " . All but one , a Communist Party member , either have no comment or quickly change the subject . Fear , shame shyness . . . I have wondered of the reason . I got the answer during Xi Jinping's recent U.S. visit . Half did not even know he was in the U.S. ! Of those who did the only interest was in the outfits worn by his attractive wife , Peng Liyuan . Even the Party member seems turned off to her government's polemics except on one issue - - - Taiwan . Ungrateful Taiwan is not a country and must return to the motherland , even if by force .
I personally have witnessed this disconnect weekly . My wife , a Chinese citizen , teaches yoga classes every week in our home . All students are Chinese females - - - students , teachers , workers and housewives . Some are permanent residents while the rest will return to China . On Sundays after class we have a pot luck meal together and I question them about subjects I read about in NYT's " Sinosphere " . All but one , a Communist Party member , either have no comment or quickly change the subject . Fear , shame shyness . . . I have wondered of the reason . I got the answer during Xi Jinping's recent U.S. visit . Half did not even know he was in the U.S. ! Of those who did the only interest was in the outfits worn by his attractive wife , Peng Liyuan . Even the Party member seems turned off to her government's polemics except on one issue - - - Taiwan . Ungrateful Taiwan is not a country and must return to the motherland , even if by force .
5
There are 1.3 billion Chinese. For every one who gives a thought to the U.S. or anything outside their immediate life, you can find one who does not. Not completely a bad thing as it takes a lot to separate information from propaganda.
4
The so-called Chinese schizophrenic view of America is in my experience one simple based ever day values one experiences in China -, and sharpened in its sharp elbowed dog eat dog society - the over riding value is selfishness, I'm alright Jack, the communist ideology tried to put a lid on it but its long since decided to harness it - the Chinese Premier doesn't admire the American values of freedom or liberty, rather they just want the good bit, for themselves, or their families..... prestige, goods, and status.... as for China as a whole, well criticize, and yes they take it personally because besides collecting things, they also like to collect "Face", maybe unfashionable to say, but actually there are differences in culture.
27
Having lived there it is a pretty sharp elbowed and sometimes selfish (certainly materialistic) culture, though easy for someone like me to say who didn't have to live through something as incredibly traumatic like as the cultural revolution. That's got to mess with anyone's head. And perhaps the selfishness is really just a sane response to a tough life scrabbled out among over a billion competitors, with not much of a state economic safety net and (for most) little economic security.
I don't see any apparent contradiction as both feelings were shown as answers, because it would be too foolish (and definitely incomplete) have one of those feeling as outcome to the survey. For sure, it'd be likely the same whether submitting other people to the same questioning concerning China.
1
How can we question the logic of Chinese who hold "contrasting, schizophrenic of America" when we do this ourselves regarding our own country? I am certain that I am not the only reader of the NYT who often wonders aloud at how our nation has become so crazy ("schizophrenic") with right-wing gun nuts, mass shootings, utterly dysfunctional Congressional Republicans, absurdly parochial attitudes from the right regarding global warming, increasing xenophobia by these same uneducated nutcakes (e.g., attitudes about global trade), no understanding of the necessity of separation of church and state, etc., etc., etc. Yet at the end of the day... I must admit that I can't think of another country where I would rather live! I travel frequently, to all corners, and while I might romanticize this or that nation (New Zealand is still my favorite...), a bit of afterthought sees reality sinking in and I am back home and happy. My stomach usually turns when I hear the looney right shouting "America is No. 1"-- but that does in fact turn out to be the case on a comparative basis. We have lots of improvements to make, for sure, but similar to Churchill's famed quote on democracy ("the worst system ever... except for all the rest") the ambivalent Chinese view of the United States of America is actually not that far off from the truth. May god (or something) save America.
22
There are well over a 100,00 Chinese students studying at American colleges My life partner is a Senior Lecturer at the "U". Each year she has had a number of Chinese students. Contemporary Chinese foreign policy or political issues are never brought up or discussed by the students. They are diligent workers and totally focused on their individual success. If she were to bring up an issue like the Chinese man made islands in the South China Sea, Uighur unrest in Western China, or the manipulation of Chinese currency, the response from Chinese students would be silence.The exception was one Chinese student who did a final project on the failure of the Chinese government to deal with water pollution. The Chinese students compartmentalize geo politics.It just doesn't matter to them.Political orthodoxy is a given for success in China. It becomes a reflex.
44
Geo politics does matter to the Chinese students. They chose to be silent because they are not sure what would be the response and the result if they voice their opinions. They learn that early in their life. It is similar to the case in America that people don't discuss racial issues and religions unless it is safe to voice your true thoughts.
23
They couldn't be in a safer enviroment.However,you are absolutely right they have no way of knowing that. Yet,all anyone can comment on is what they have observed.The "result"you mention is why I mentioned that orthodoxy was a reflex.
3
I taught business in a midwestern university. In recent years, many of my students were Chinese. Politics does matter to them...a lot. Most realized that their government was corrupt and that the top 1% will be taken care of (with the exception of a few who are found guilty in show trials of corruption). These students were angry that they couldn't use the same social media in China that they could use in the United States and the rest of the world; that they didn't know about Tianamin Square until they came here; that the Chinese government had hidden many other atrocities until they could research it on non-censored search engines (which they believe more than their government-approved search engines).
2
It is rather a conundrum at play here, and Murong Xuecun had just supplied us a popular version of the many frustrations and ambivalences of the Chinese toward America. Delving a little deeper into psychological and cognitive undercurrents, however, is a sure path to understand what's up with this contradiction.
The Chinese and the Americans. regardless of how far apart in their cultures, languages and histories, are all the same by at least this standard: their natural parochialism. For sure, each society has its own stock of cognoscetis, intelligentsia and world citizens, but when it comes down to the level of polemics Mr. Murong described, the Chinese is merely revealing the underbelly of its collective ignorance about a land faraway.
Their "contrasting and schizophrenic" views, as it was put by the author, should be understood as the struggle of the ignorant. As an ethnic Chinese who just graduated from a top American public university with a journalism degree, I understand the limits of human epistemology.
As Chinese are daily bombarded with suggestive coverages of Sino-U.S. and other bilateral relationships the world over, it is foolhardy to imagine that they, who seem to have acquired million times more "knowledge" about America on Big Bang Theory, House of Cards and Housewives than by traveling free in U.S., could detract from the U.S. "state". Chinese are merely drumming up their la-la land fascination of U.S. popular culture, thus daydreaming a tempting "culture".
The Chinese and the Americans. regardless of how far apart in their cultures, languages and histories, are all the same by at least this standard: their natural parochialism. For sure, each society has its own stock of cognoscetis, intelligentsia and world citizens, but when it comes down to the level of polemics Mr. Murong described, the Chinese is merely revealing the underbelly of its collective ignorance about a land faraway.
Their "contrasting and schizophrenic" views, as it was put by the author, should be understood as the struggle of the ignorant. As an ethnic Chinese who just graduated from a top American public university with a journalism degree, I understand the limits of human epistemology.
As Chinese are daily bombarded with suggestive coverages of Sino-U.S. and other bilateral relationships the world over, it is foolhardy to imagine that they, who seem to have acquired million times more "knowledge" about America on Big Bang Theory, House of Cards and Housewives than by traveling free in U.S., could detract from the U.S. "state". Chinese are merely drumming up their la-la land fascination of U.S. popular culture, thus daydreaming a tempting "culture".
1
This is common all over the world. People know that the US in really one of the best places to be, even while they criticize it. Particularly striking is the hypocrisy of people from so many Muslims nations who try their hardest to get to the US, then criticize their new western host for not being un-Islamic kaffirs. The concept that that the places that share their cultural views are the places people run from, and the evil infidel countries, the places they run to, is a glaring dissonance. However they block that out, and continue to tell us how doing things more like they do in the terrible places they came from, would somehow be better?
The international hypocrisy is near universal. The US is the best place for anybody with any personal ambition or talent to be. Millions know it, and and their actions speaker louder than their (usual critical) words. Even the many writers and commentators in the NYT who have no shortage of criticism for the US, never follow that up with moving out.
The international hypocrisy is near universal. The US is the best place for anybody with any personal ambition or talent to be. Millions know it, and and their actions speaker louder than their (usual critical) words. Even the many writers and commentators in the NYT who have no shortage of criticism for the US, never follow that up with moving out.
54
One can criticize one's country and society, in the hope of improving it, without being obliged to leave it.
1
At least the Chinese don't reflexively believe God thinks we are infidels worthy of death. A big gulf between feelings of antagonism and piloting airlines into towers full of innocent civilians. Thank god (ha!) communists are atheists.....
I suppose that it's hard to break six decades of State Propaganda that's been continuously fed to your grandparents, parents and your friends, who then pass their completely "original" thoughts on the threat of good 'ol America to the Middle Kingdom. America = Imperialistic Capitalists after all.
To be honest, it's easy to fall in love with another country's culture and yet, detest every fibre of its being. Of course "its being" here refers to the looming might of the US Military and its political system. Chinese Citizens love the freedom that America and its culture represent. But it is difficult to let this love of American Culture overpower an ingrained fear of American might.
It must be borne in mind that the Chinese leadership are proponents of the school of "realism" in International Relations where peace is only kept through power. Any power with more military power is automatically seen as a threat, no matter how illogical this belief is.
To be honest, it's easy to fall in love with another country's culture and yet, detest every fibre of its being. Of course "its being" here refers to the looming might of the US Military and its political system. Chinese Citizens love the freedom that America and its culture represent. But it is difficult to let this love of American Culture overpower an ingrained fear of American might.
It must be borne in mind that the Chinese leadership are proponents of the school of "realism" in International Relations where peace is only kept through power. Any power with more military power is automatically seen as a threat, no matter how illogical this belief is.
2
Chinese Americans relations began after Britain fought two wars to force the Chinese to allow the importation of British opium. US traders trafficked in opium, including, FDR's granddaddy Delano.
US citizens, and all Europeans enjoyed "extraterritoriality" which meant they were immune to Chinese law IN China.
The first race based US immigration law was The Chinese Exclusion Act, after, of course, Chinese labor contributed immensely, to the building of our Transcontinental Railroad.
On the brighter side, the Chinese name for the US is Mei Guo, which means beautiful country. Which makes us mei guo ren, people of the beautiful country.
US citizens, and all Europeans enjoyed "extraterritoriality" which meant they were immune to Chinese law IN China.
The first race based US immigration law was The Chinese Exclusion Act, after, of course, Chinese labor contributed immensely, to the building of our Transcontinental Railroad.
On the brighter side, the Chinese name for the US is Mei Guo, which means beautiful country. Which makes us mei guo ren, people of the beautiful country.
18
The Mandarin Chinese word for China is "Chung-Guo" which means center of the world. The only other people that think they're at the center of the world are Bostonians.
"Some people like to compare America and Russia — in recent years Beijing has been cozying up to Moscow — and analyze the behavior of the two countries toward China, wondering aloud if we have chosen the right friend."
No need to wonder, they have chosen the wrong friend. It makes sense for 'rule of man' nations to coalesce, they don't ask each other uncomfortable questions...Putin and Xi deserve each other.
No need to wonder, they have chosen the wrong friend. It makes sense for 'rule of man' nations to coalesce, they don't ask each other uncomfortable questions...Putin and Xi deserve each other.
11
Many Americans share the same conflicting views, damning the place for the domestic rapacity and brutal foreign policy of its elites and the ignorant white nativism of its less fortunate while recognizing that despite their best efforts, our politicians, billionaires and CEOs can't altogether destroy what's admirable about the country.
2
I have nothing but admiration for what China has done to its economy. We spent three weeks traveling in China last year. The country is impressive, with amazing infrastructure that puts the U.S. to shame. Their hard work in building their country is evident everywhere you go.
While my experience was limited, we were treated well and people seemed to have a genuine curiosity about foreigners. It is a shame that we need to see each other as some how in opposition to each other. This is not to say that China doesn't have problems, especially in terms of their pollution and in the area of human rights. But then so do we. Yes, we have a long way to go in terms of our relations with each other. But on the ground level--we have more in common than most people realize.
While my experience was limited, we were treated well and people seemed to have a genuine curiosity about foreigners. It is a shame that we need to see each other as some how in opposition to each other. This is not to say that China doesn't have problems, especially in terms of their pollution and in the area of human rights. But then so do we. Yes, we have a long way to go in terms of our relations with each other. But on the ground level--we have more in common than most people realize.
14
Well put.
Such extreme love-hate reactions in themselves prove the indispensibility of US in the world even when its earlier aura might be dimming.
5
Such a situation is hardly unique to China. For instance, it has been noted that popular opinion in Iran is far more favorable towards the US than it is in other states in the area whose governments are our close allies. Most Britons would be horrified to contemplate ditching their security arrangements with us but do not think highly of our policies or our people.
The other day, I got into youtube and saw a bunch of videos of foreign exchange students in America. And the thing that struck me is how powerful a propaganda tool is our media and how pervasive. Kids from foreign lands want to come here for school, apparently thinking it is like in the movies they watch. One of the plaints heard from Russians under communism is that they wanted to live in a "normal" country, indicative of how our global media has apparently defined our unique circumstance as the "normal" to which other countries relate.
Yet, unless one is willing to settle here permanently, to become an American, there is still the tendency (as there is in all humans, including us), to view other countries negatively as a way of defending the value in your own culture. We Americans mostly simply ignore everyone else, but stuck with America-centric media, the rest of the world might be more inclined to define themselves in opposition to ourselves than we are to them.
And because at the moment we are the ones mostly making and enforcing the rules of global conduct, others see themselves opposed to us
The other day, I got into youtube and saw a bunch of videos of foreign exchange students in America. And the thing that struck me is how powerful a propaganda tool is our media and how pervasive. Kids from foreign lands want to come here for school, apparently thinking it is like in the movies they watch. One of the plaints heard from Russians under communism is that they wanted to live in a "normal" country, indicative of how our global media has apparently defined our unique circumstance as the "normal" to which other countries relate.
Yet, unless one is willing to settle here permanently, to become an American, there is still the tendency (as there is in all humans, including us), to view other countries negatively as a way of defending the value in your own culture. We Americans mostly simply ignore everyone else, but stuck with America-centric media, the rest of the world might be more inclined to define themselves in opposition to ourselves than we are to them.
And because at the moment we are the ones mostly making and enforcing the rules of global conduct, others see themselves opposed to us
8
Living in Morningside Heights near Columbia University and Manhattan School of Music, it is clear as day that the Chinese are sending their kids to New York, America in droves to partake in one of the greatest American product, college education. You hear Mandarin in streets. Often they coalesce in groups hanging out in front of the schools and restaurants. As an Asian American, they appear as foreign to me as I imagine they might to non-Asians. They mostly stay in their cliques and that is natural. But my hope is that their experiences here have informed them in ways the Chinese homeland has not and reverse some of its Anti-American propaganda. As a spectator, it's hard to see what their experiences in America is doing for them, but if the Chinese keeps sending their kids here, it seems that can only be an overall good for improving relations. As for Chinese love-hate relationship with America, that is not a new phenomenon. As the author write, mix views of America is not uncommon around the world. What's new is China's general rising wealth and power. It's now at our doorstep, or rather, our schools with kids driving Masertis.
38
I just hope most of the Chinese expatriates (aka, study abroad students from China) are going to grow out of the so-called "Little Emperors" mindset and learn empathy, self-reflection, and critical thinking abilities, because, as Xuecun states, most of these Chinese students are from the upper rungs of the society, many of whom are CPC leaders and members who have successfully taken advantage of the ironical coexistence of communism and corporate capitalism and the disparity between reality and rhetoric (propaganda).
3
As usual, it is nice to be wealthy. The offspring of important Communist Party members live a life practically alien to the average proletariat. Average Chinese can only dream of attending the likes of Columbia or an Ivy League institution.
The irony is in how China wants to supplant the United States by out 'America'ing America.
The irony is in how China wants to supplant the United States by out 'America'ing America.
So, China has schizophrenic feelings toward the U.S., . . . join the (international) club.
8
I'd like to see the results of a similar poll done in the U.S.A. about American attitudes towards China. Then we could compare propaganda machines.
36
There was a recent study by Pew Research Center about how American and Chinese see each other. Here is the link
http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/09/22/6-facts-about-how-americ...
http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2015/09/22/6-facts-about-how-americ...
2
The great difference being, while millions want to move to the US, nearly no Americans want to move to China. And none send their children there for betterment, either.
Don't confuse what people actually do, with propaganda.
Don't confuse what people actually do, with propaganda.
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Toto, Cool. I just read it.
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