Julia Lovell, in her new book The Opium War: Drugs, Dreams and the Making of China, finds something funny in the tragedy Great Britain has many reasons to feel great about itself. Its empire was the largest in history and covered over a fifth of the world's population. It had more Asian and African colonies than any other European power. It came, it saw, it divided, and it … [Read more...] about The Tragicomedy of Errors: China, British Imperialism, and the Opium Wars
Opinion
My Reflections on Shanghai
I have now spent a week in Shanghai roaming around and mingling with friends, relatives, and locals. Lately, I have asked myself what were the most revealing this past week. Looking at Luzhiazui’s seemingly endless number of artfully designed skyscrapers and noticing a sea of stylishly dressed Chinese pouring through Shanghai’s modern subway system, I can honestly say … [Read more...] about My Reflections on Shanghai
It’s about family at the Shanghai Zoo
When at a zoo, what do you think is likely the more numerous? At the Shanghai Zoo today, I think children outnumbered animals. The place is massive, perhaps one of the largest zoos anywhere around the world. Rides and children activities are abound. While observing the kids, my thought was that they all should grow up to never see strife, at least not what their parents or … [Read more...] about It’s about family at the Shanghai Zoo
China deserves criticism for lack of rule of law in Brit sexual assault case
Remember this pervert who was caught trying to rape a Chinese woman in Beijing in early May? According to this People's Daily report, that Brit was deported yesterday. What happened to rule of law? If the damning evidence is not enough to convict this perp, then let him be. Otherwise sentence him to whatever punishment he deserves. Deporting him now that the whole of … [Read more...] about China deserves criticism for lack of rule of law in Brit sexual assault case
A more positive image
We spend a lot of time on this blog talking about media bias in the West against China. One question is how do you correct it? The video report below reminded me the biggest impact really should come from the Chinese themselves. How? By becoming rich! Let's face it, we humans worship wealth and success. Emotionally, when we see a bum on the street versus when we see a … [Read more...] about A more positive image