In the wake of the Jasmine Revolution in Tunisia, popular protests have swept the Arab world. Some lost no time in hyping that the wave would make its way to China. Nevertheless, such a misjudgment would only lead to disappointment.
A few Western media outlets are seeking hints of a Chinese-style “Jasmine Revolution.” With a colossal population, China inevitably has a few dissidents, who are energized by the public revolts in the Middle East and call for protests or even a revolution in China. Such people do exist, especially in larger cities.
Recently, a number of Western journalists gathered at an appointed place, watching a performance art version of the “Jasmine Revolution” given by several Chinese. The number of journalists and bystanders there overwhelmed that of the performers. However, some overseas media outlets reported this as a massive popular movement, and barely veiled their expectations for turmoil in China.
Their reports essentially became stage photography, rather than investigative journalism. Strictly speaking, such careless sensationalization was rather news forgery than journalism.
Anyone knowing about the Chinese society would never predict a Chinese-style “Jasmine Revolution.” This society is now generally stable. This is not merely a reflection of the state of society, but a widely held public opinion.
Indeed, China has many problems and conflicts – imbalanced development and a wide poverty gap have incurred plenty of complaints. The nation has formed a political determination to address these problems, and possible solutions are being considered.
Chinese society has no interest in solving these problems through revolution. Many still vividly remember the social upheavals that occurred decades ago. They have more faith in the strengths of reform and development.
China is far more stable than some would think. Thousands of years of history have demonstrated the stability of Chinese civilization. The social complexity here has also help created a thorough social balance.
Most problems in China are by-products of the nation’s growth. China is not a dumpsite full of problems – it is more like a wharf where both accom-plishments and problems are laid. As long as the nation still keeps the momentum of growth, these disappointments will not become a Gordian knot.
Success is the best theory – no wisdom could question success. China is seeing economic and social progress now. It has drawn worldwide at-tention during the first decade of the 21st century. No matter whether they are applauded or rebuked today, these achievements will turn out to be a great success in our history. And history’s dustbin is always littered with those who aspire for China’s collapse.