What is a bottom-feeder? It usually refers to some fish swimming and feeding at the bottom of a lake or river. Just imagine what generally falls to the bottom. This is what I think of whenever the Western press engages in putting the most fringe unto a pedestal and worships it. Recently, Newsweek published an essay by Ai Weiwei titled, "The City: Beijing" with the byline, … [Read more...] about Newsweek bottom-feeding
Ai Weiwei
What says China’s criminal procedure law about Ai Weiwei? A Chinese says “Ideological bias clouds Western views”
Ai Weiwei appeared in Western headlines again after Xinhua reported Beijing police saying he was under 'house surveillance' and under investigation for tax evasion. (I should mention that while searching for materials for this post, I was struck by the lack of search results on Google on 'Ai Weiwei' from China. Why? I would venture to say, therein lies the true essence of … [Read more...] about What says China’s criminal procedure law about Ai Weiwei? A Chinese says “Ideological bias clouds Western views”
Ai Weiwei petition coverage says more about shoddy journalism
Today, I am writing about an article at the San Francisco Chronicle by Andrew S. Ross on a supposed Chinese government denial of service attack on change.org. The article was dated April 28, 2011, entitled, "Change.org attacked after backing China dissident." This date is important, so make a note of it. Because Ai Weiwei is a headline in the Western media, anything … [Read more...] about Ai Weiwei petition coverage says more about shoddy journalism
Three years after quake, Sichuan rebuilds
Few weeks ago, a China Daily reporter contacted this blog for leads on foreigners working with China in Sichuan's reconstruction. As you know, tomorrow is the three year anniversary of the May 12, 2008 earthquake; I have been looking for reports in the last few days on this topic. The story that brought tears to my eyes was about a mother saving the life of her infant … [Read more...] about Three years after quake, Sichuan rebuilds
Ai Weiwei: fighting for justice or freedom of speech?
Negotiating the way through Ai Weiwei-land and the barrage of mainstream media (msm) and Web opinions, Joni Mitchell’s song, "Both Sides Now," on classic radio comes to mind: Old friends are acting strange they shake their heads say I’ve changed something’s lost, something’s gained. Equanimity is a cop-out in this debate that pivots on black and white stereotypes of … [Read more...] about Ai Weiwei: fighting for justice or freedom of speech?