From the Readers

Western democracy not for all

(China Daily)
Updated: 2011-04-06 08:03

Comment on "Distorting truth with biased perspective" (China Daily, March 24)

I congratulate Mo Nong for writing such a straightforward article on the biased Western media. It is rather unfortunate that people in the West generally have little understanding of China and the rest of Asia.

Some Western people falsely believe that democracy can be introduced instantly. Democracy did not spread overnight in Europe or the United States. It involved many wars in which many people were killed.

It does not also necessarily mean that Western-style of democracy is suitable for every country. People in different countries share different values, different histories and have different perceptions of what is right and wrong.

People in the West have been spoiled by a false understanding of liberty, financial security, and overall a safe environment after World War II.

Most among the younger generation have no idea what repercussions it may have if social unrest breaks out in a country like China. In addition, Western journalists generally write stories that sell well, which often do reflect the policies of their respective governments.

Laura Schuurmans, via e-mail

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(China Daily 04/06/2011 page9)