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LETTERS: Look to the future

I have read many of the letters published in the Taipei Times. Understandably, most of these concern the future of Taiwan as an independent nation.
Like most other contributors, I passionately believe in Taiwan's right to self-determination as a sovereign republic that is recognized by all other countries, embraced by the international community and free from Chinese intimidation.
However, I notice that many letters are based on academic analysis and historical interpretations of the cross-strait situation.
While these articles may be interesting to readers, I am doubtful whether it carries any weight or significance to Taiwan's current predicament.
Despite what politicians would have us believe, decisions are based on realpolitik, not ideological notions.
The limitations of international law and institutions also need to be recognized; the former is largely unenforceable, while the latter will never be truly independent and powerful entities while they are controlled by powerful nations for their own benefit.
Once we accept the reality of this, however disillusioning and unjust it is, can we concentrate on what can be done. Change is inevitable, and even if Taiwan isn't currently in control of its own destiny, we should be considering potential future events and scenarios, and discussing how these would effect Taiwan.
For example, what would be the ramifications of China's economy collapsing? If its miraculous growth continues, but disparities between rich and poor widen, leading to civil unrest and the collapse of the Communist Party, could Taiwan take advantage of such an opportunity to declare independence? What would happen if the US becomes isolationist again or enters into a collision course with a China seeking to end its dominance as the pre-eminent world superpower?
Taiwan should therefore also consider how best to prepare itself for future change.
As Gandhi once said, "Be the change you want to see in the world."
Taiwan has achieved an incredible amount in a relatively short time as a fledgling democracy, of which it should be suitably proud. I would still urge its people to strive for a fairer society and to learn from the mistakes of other (allegedly) mature democracies.
Philip Wallbridge
Rochester, England

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