LadyEllen
Posts: 10931
Joined: 6/30/2006 From: Stourport-England Status: offline
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I really dont think this is all as clear cut as we might hope. What is for absolute certain, is that China isnt ever going to change, in general or in relation to Tibet, if we take an antagonistic stance towards their past and present human rights and cultural attitudes - and there is no way in the world that anyone would seriously consider anything more than making noises with regard to taking an antagonistic stance. We must also bear in mind that China has one of the oldest cultures in the world, in relation to which our western civilisation is a mere upstart; we have to show respect even if it does stick in the craw. At the same time, the past and present state of human rights in China and their cultural imperialism in the case of Tibet, are matters which none of us find acceptable. My view is, that change within China (and by association change in Tibet) is far more likely if we take a balanced attitude towards China - yes, we have to make noises about the changes we'd like to see, but we must also recognise that the changes made in the last decade or so have come about mainly not by us making noises, but by the needs for China to change if it wishes to engage in the world economy and through our encouragement rather than our censure. Personally, I cant stand the Olympics, and I very much would like to see greater change in China and so Tibet. Yet on balance it is probably the right decision that the Chinese get to hold the games, as both a recognition of the progress made so far and an encouragement and reminder that there is more yet to be done. E
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In a test against the leading brand, 9 out of 10 participants couldnt tell the difference. Dumbasses.
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