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Hu must Westernize China

"Western-style democracy" will eventually find a place in China because in its thousands of years of history, there was never an "eastern-style democracy" ("Hu unlikely to ease up on Taiwan and HK," Sept. 21, page 3).

Regarding China's stated policy of "Peaceful rising," how would China rise without peace? Throughout its existence until late in the Deng Xiaoping (鄧小平) years, China has engaged in war after war, to the detriment of the nation and its people. Its recent spectacular economic growth was only possible because of peace and growth from rock-bottom poverty.

Chinese emigrants will attest to this. Most of them emigrate (and many more would follow if they were able) to a "Western-style" democratic country. They have no problem accepting Western democracy as their core value, and its benefits.

If Gilles Guiheux is correct in saying that Hu is "down to earth" and concerned with the problems of ordinary people, this can only mean "Western style" democracy. What more powerful tool than free speech to expose corruption and safeguard justice and equality? Free from persecution of those who demand solutions for society's ills? Trusted leaders to emerge from elections to work for the interests of ordinary people?

Let the world leaders in the US, the UN and Europe -- as well as the media, academics and overseas Chinese -- persuade Hu that peaceful rising is the right way to go. Even a leader of 1.3 billion people needs guidance sometimes. Since Hu appears to be pragmatic and cautious, outside opinion and pressure must influence his decision-making. Appeasement can only confuse him about whether to reform or not to reform.

The opportunity is unique to guide a nation of vast importance in its role in making peace in the world and in the advancement of humanity.

Chen Ming-chung
Chicago
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