Larry,
I agree that there is no 'easy' answer to US/China relations. It just seems to me that we must maintain an open and amiable dialogue in all areas. Just as there are anti-China sentiments in the US, there are those opposing any involvement with the US in China. Fortunately, those currently in power in both countries are open to improving diplomatic relations.
I follow the news and events in China because I feel China may become second to the US in global influence. For this reason, actions by either that would alienate the other would not beneficial. There's 1.2-1.3 Billion people in China, mostly uneducated, mostly poor, mostly living in what we would consider sub-standard conditions. In the last 10 years many positive changes have occurred that have improved the lives of many of these people. If Zhu Rongi can remain in power and be able to institute the reforms he has initiated, this improvement will continue. Should he fail, there is a large group of isolationist, militaristic hardliners that are looking for an opportunity to remove him. They are low profile, but were evident in the reaction to the embassy bombing in Kosovo. China is teetering between movement towards a capitalistic society that would result in more individual freedoms and a total return to the oppressive totalitarian system.
I oppose the oppressive policies in China and feel we should continue to push for freedoms, but this should not interfere with attempts by both leaderships to improve relations between the two countries. The world has much to lose if the 'anti' forces prevail.
As to our own policies, we are steadily giving the government more power and losing freedoms. One wonders how many would vote to abandon the Constitution if promised equal income, health care, and other benefits for life irregardless of skills or work habits. We might also look to Waco, to those losing land to environmental regulations, to our attacks on Kosovo & Iraq, to the bombing of the factory in the Sudan, etc. as governmental injustices, but we justify these actions because of their 'moral correctness'.
Can you legally NOT wear your seatbelt? -g-
JMHO,
Ron
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