Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Keith, Quinault WA — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 16:45:11 GMT

The U.S. government is doing this same thing out west. They are just a bit subtler about it. Its all in the name of endangered species, habitat restoration, clean water, etc.......

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

MMAYS SUMMER ST WELCH WV — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 16:51:38 GMT

ITS ALL IN THE NAME OF MONEY AND GREEDY GOVERNMENT. WHEN WILL WE LEARN. NEVER, TILL OUR GOD SEND HIS SON TO GET US.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Elizabeth, Cumberland, Rhode Island — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:04:26 GMT

For China, Tibetan's are the equivilant to the Native American population to the US. There continues to be massive inequities in the socio-economic status of the Tibetan people. The world was shown these inequities and has chosen to do nothing. As this ancient culture further degrades into an unwanted (and soon to be stomped out) sub-sect of what China feels it has domain over, the world will loose an integral and maintainable facet of its history. This isn't just an issue between Tibet and China. This is an issue for the whole world.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

k ripa — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:24:26 GMT

these tibetan folk are such great people. we never hear about these OCCUPIED TERRITORIES. maybe if there were buddhist suicide bombers they would get the attention of our press corp. but really good, solid, working, hospitable, cheerful nomads? who cares if they get trampled down by a truly brutal occupying power.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Brian, Stow, Ohio — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:29:06 GMT

The international community needs to step up. For too long the Tibetan culture has been diminishing for the point of "progress." It's sad. It's no different from what the United States did to the native american people not long ago. We're supposed to learn from history, not repeat it!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Lama-san, Arlington — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:29:15 GMT

This report, by what seems to be a Chinese American (a banana?), is totally biased, citing an untrue report put out annually by some evil people with nothing better to do (the same people criticize the U.S. justice system as voodoo justice, go figure). I'm originally from Tibet and even though it's no paradise there (it never was, BTW), life today is way better than 25 years ago, 50 years ago, 100 years ago, or whatever. Common people (i.e., other than the monks) never have to worry about going hungry no more, and most residents own at least one TV set and have lots of local-language TV programs to enjoy and pick from. They also have the right to worship the Dalai Lama (or whatever Lama their tribe subscribes to), and for the most part are left alone. Sure, the Han Chinese in Tibetan areas are doing even better, but it's like saying because white people are financially better than blacks, the latter group is being culturally deprived and oppressed. Or maybe you believe that, that's your right but you'll just be believing in a lie.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Kevin Devine — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:39:01 GMT

I for one believe that the plight of the Tibetan people has been largely ignored by the global community. I feel the Chinese government should begin the process for creating some form of autonomy for the Tibetans. This will be to their advantage as many people around the world will wish to come to Tibet for pilgramage and or vacations/holiday. I would be among many who would spend hard currency to visit and learn about the facinating culture of Tibet. Please treat the people of Tibet with digity and respect and give them self rule.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Greg, Capitola, California — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:49:55 GMT

Of course, its been several hundred years since the Mongols invaded asia and sided with the Tibetans. Because of their pastoral lifestyle, the Mongols felt they had more in common with the Tibetans and didn't trust the Chinese. What happened to the Chinese? Surely the Tibetans wouldn't have abused their power, right? right?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Kirk McDonald Park Escazu Costa Rica — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 17:53:21 GMT

Until the day of human realization that all men are born equal and free, society will rationalize as part of the drama of life, that what happens over there, is not happening to me, so it is "just the way it is".Only by truth and committment to the truth, that these social govermental uphevils are crimes will the force of the masses generate enough interest to stop this insanity. We are one species living on Space Sip Earth and we owe it to ourselves to support one another and fight against cruelity.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

mike Madden, Houston TX — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:01:58 GMT

The Chinese conquered Tibet and should return it's lands, evacuate and turn it over to Tibetan rule.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

nubado — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:18:33 GMT

the usa did the same thing with the indians .

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

bmm, Albuquerque, NM — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:29:25 GMT

All societies are not equal, nor should we expect them to be. In today's world, freedom -- in this specific sense -- would be to allow the Tibetans to pursue their way of life. Their so-called socio-ecomomic status cannot be compared to a Euro- or US-centric concept of it, it doesn't fit their societal view. The injustice in all of this is that they are being deprived of their culture, their way of life and -- ultimately -- their happiness.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

kris, san francisco — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:33:56 GMT

hey tibetan person: is it not true they are forcing the chinese language & chinese names upon tibet? they already replaced the dalai lama with someone they picked. how can you justify that? china is a country that: overtly takes over others (they threaten to bomb taiwan regularily). has complete disregard for the environment and animal rights (anyone remember the video of kittens stomped to death or of 50,000 dogs killed in a ridulous attempt to control bird flu http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/world/4085879.html). no freedom of speech, media, or religion. no free market. corrupt government officials & courts you can buy off. rich people there are disgusting wealthy while the majority are as poor as dirt, many working in rat infested factories. china bitches about japan rewriting textbooks but look at their version of history (lies?!) they are teaching their own children! remember the whole pet food recall too? the messed up thing is not their incredibly low standards of quality (no surprise) but what's appalling is that they would not allow outside investigators to figure out what happened. they also lied about never exporting wheat to the US when the department of agriculture says otherwise. shady people. and 99.9% of counterfeit goods come out of china too. the government does not give a crap about that either. shady!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Patsy Mason — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:34:32 GMT

The needy, greedy. They are never satisfed with what they have they are always wanting that which belongs to others. When they have gone across their land (China) they will then start across the earth. If The Tibetean people don't stop the Chinese government from taking over or they are unable to find a way to stop the invaders, and the rest of the world can't stop it or set by complacitedly and let it happen, well then, The Chinese government will see that as an open invite for them to sweep across the world and take that which they want. Does The US government intend to stop them or are WE going to put out the WELCOME mat for them when they come to our shores?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

omar the great california — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:36:59 GMT

Tibet'we cant save the [WORLD]Africa,rain forest,Iraq, Im paying $4.00 a gallon so yeang yang can chase yaks and goats all day.All they have to do is build a cassino.Da'

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

B, Raleigh, NC — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:42:55 GMT

I was lucky enough to visit Tibet this year and saw first-hand the influence of the influx of Han Chinese settlers to the region. Sadly, even the holy city of Lhasa is losing its traditional culture and language as more and more Chinese are being encouraged to move to the area to assist in "economic development." The Tibetans, a friendly, peaceful people, didn't ask for development. And, according to those Tibetans I spoke to, they were perfectly content with their lives before the Chinese occupation. It's disturbing that this trend persists around the globe - its ok to occupy another land as long as its to bring "progress" and "development." Are we really to believe the Tibetans prefer to have TVs over their freedom?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Bill Newman, Lake Como, NJ — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:54:42 GMT

It is obscene the way China illegally invaded Tibet and brutalized these gentle people. The US should be leading the effort to give the Tibetans their counrty back so that, once again, they may enjoy the freedom we claim to care so much about.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Ernest — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 18:58:17 GMT

It is a consistent strategy to "modernize" these "savages", as we arrogantly think we know what's best for everyone else. Another cultural genocide like this is taking place in Tanzania just to please a handful of rich people... read on. One of the last remaining tribes of hunter-gatherers on the planet is on the verge of vanishing into the modern world. The Hadzabe are believed to be the second-oldest people on Earth, and they still hunt and gather as a way of life. The transition has been long underway, but members of the dwindling Hadzabe tribe, who now number fewer than 1,500, say it is being unduly hastened by a United Arab Emirates royal family, which plans to use the tribal hunting land as a personal safari playground. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19148779/

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Lee — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:01:10 GMT

The oppression of the Tibetan people is just more of the same old destruction of religion the devils people are trying to do to all people of religion in the world, part of the same old evil end-time destruction to set up rule and worship of the devil as the exclusive object of worship.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Patti Anaheim California — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:06:17 GMT

I have been to Tibet, walked and talked with these people and it is horrible what is happening to their country, their heritage, their beliefs. The Chinese influence is everywhere destroying whatever it touches. I was there during the high holy days - I asked my guide if he attended this festival when he was a child and he said no it was forbidden by the Chinese unitl recent years - HE WAS NOT ALLOWED TO PRACTICE HIS RELIGION! I realize now that when I go back it will be forever changed and my heart breaks. Something needs to be done and soon.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Dr. Charles E. Majuri — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:09:19 GMT

The Chinese are devatating a great culture and country, Tibet. The Chinese government is so threatened by these people. Few know the wholesale slaughter that has been perpetrated by the Chinese on over a million Tibetans, including those who were religious leaders. Further the Chinese have destroyed many of the Tibetan Temples and Buddhist landmarks. This is motivated by nothing but fear and greed. I call upon the Chinese people to protest what their government has been doing since 1959.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

H. MacArthur, Boston, MA — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:10:14 GMT

In 1952, the U.S. government initiated the Urban Indian Relocation Program. It was designed to entice reservation dwellers to seven major cities where the jobs supposedly were plentiful. This program was a huge failure because it did not provide the support and job training that it promised. American Indians could not find the jobs they needed to support themselves and their families and also lacked the skills to get them even if they were available. Today, the American Indian population has the highest alcoholism, drug addiction, suicide and dropout rate of any minority in the U.S. If China thinks this model will work for its indigenous people they will be sadly mistaken.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Joseph, Houston, tx — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:11:05 GMT

To: Lama-san, Arlington. You are from there but you dont come off as having a right to speak for those people. Just because you want 56 inch big screen plasma tv's like the one I just bought. Does not mean that they do. I'm sure if Govnerment ordered you to trash your plasma big screen, then handed you a free 12inch black and white RF. You'd be on the verge of jumping off a cliff.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

samsara, Redmond, WA — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:13:27 GMT

Tibet belongs to the Tibetans - Tibet is being occupied by China. The only thing in Tibet that is interesting to China is the repression of Buddhism and Democracy.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Ed Hogan, Houston, TX. — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:16:21 GMT

I just returned from Tibet last Wednesday after two weeks in the country (yes I say country). The average Tibetian I met considers the Chinese invaders and wants them out of their country. Unfortunately it isn't going to happen. The chinese are there to stay. The Tibetans are better off as Lama-san comments. It just depends; better health care, education, job opportunities, food, etc. or freedom to starve in ignorance and die from lack of medications. Life is not always what we would want it to be.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Joe, St. Cloud, Minn — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:21:55 GMT

I don't honestly see any of you people who previously posted doing anything about it. Are you in China protesting the Chinese occupation of Tibet? NO. Are you writing Chinese leaders with your opinions? NO. I am not either, but don't be saying crap is bad and that it should change unless you are readily trying to make the changes happen yourself.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

pete pierce, Norman, OK — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:43:17 GMT

I was in Lhasa a couple of weeks ago with a group from Duke. As a practical matter, the Han Chinese have so dominated and transformed the Tibetan society during the last half century, and especially since 1999, that if ever the levers of power were turned back to them, the Tibetans would be found to have forgotten how to operate them. The notion of an independent Tibet at this point is a chimera. The analogy with Native Americans, particularly the Plains tribes, is apt (I make this observation as a native Oklahoman). There will be a Tibetan culture for tourists complete with monks, temples, Pontala, and yak butter tea, but the real Tibet is even today little more than a memory. And there's really nothing to be done. We are witness to another extinction.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Sharan, Alameda, California — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:47:00 GMT

First Tibet, then Sikkim then India.....China will not stop. It is currently in Sikkim, where it has no business being; building roads to facilitate its own trade. A Chinese diplomat in India claimed early this year that Andhra Pradesh, a state of India belongs to China. China attacked India in the early 1960s. What stops it from doing so again, or attacking anyone of its neighbors? Why are we quiet? Whay do we support China and its economy by buying products made in China, while the American and every other global worker loses out? We cannot stay silent on Tibet any longer, to do so now will only result in our own voices being silenced.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Dreamchaser — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:49:16 GMT

Thank you for visiting Tibet! Seeing is believing! I wish we could all be travelling outside of the states and living in different cultures in different parts of the world. After all, there is only one earth.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Long N Nguyen Olympia Washington — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:51:53 GMT

I am not religious but a Buddhist. Talking about the culture, I have never agreed with the Tibet’s culture because of the following reasons: Not only political but their culture had also been based mainly on religion that should not at all have any connection with politics. A politician can be a holy man when is not in the office, but a holy man should never be a politician at any time. Culture should not at all be centralized to a small group of holy people. In fact Buddhism is by no mean superstitious but, even though this is personal opinions, as far as I can see their culture is superstitious. Therefore, if I were right about that their culture would have been based on a different religion, or the Buddhism that was originally misinterpreted from the basic i.e. the founder of Buddhism (Buddha) might have never meant his teaching would lead to a superstitious culture that does not keep up the ever changing world. People who were in charge of the country of Tibet before the occupation should look back to find out the root cause of why their country was invaded and occupied. Otherwise, even the world powers can liberate them, but nobody can protect them in the future. I do want to see the country will be liberated someday, however.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Pam, Birmingham, Alabama — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:52:27 GMT

My husband and I visited Tibet last September. Lama-san from Arlington is not informed about his own country. The Tibetan people cannot worship as they wish, they cannot openly discuss if they are followers of the Dalhi-Lama or they will be taken to jail and interrogated and kept in jail. I did not see any wonderous standard of living for Tibetans. They are not even allowed to have jobs as maids int he hotels or work in restaurants in lower jobs -- those jobs are taken by the Chinese that China is sending and encouraging to go to Tibet -- not by the Tibetan people. The Chinese are so suspicious that we and our guide were followed at times during our trip. Our guide was afraid to even have unauthorized books or reading material, or even discuss the Dalhi Lama. That is severe oppression by the Chinese government. They are destroying Tibet and the culture -- and have made the town of Lhasa into a flashy tourist trap. They bult a park to honor communism directly across from Potala Palace -- the home of the Dalhi Lama. So Lama-san, you absolutely do not know what you are talking about. Tibet should be free and autonomous.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Clint Byrne, Brooklyn, NY — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:54:41 GMT

As an American we have had the privileage of choice. Because of this many of us see how peaceful a traditional tibeten way of life could be. In my heart I reconze that this may be the one last place uneffected by urbanization and westerniztion that has effected the rest of the world. It is a life that is modest. I can never truly understand it but would hope to one day. I do not support that China spreads out and takes over Tibet. An much of the reason China wants Tibet is not only because it is the home to Buddhism which teaches something bigger then capitalism and communism, but also that there is now oil in Tibet. It is a true tragedy that people wil continue tol be killed for the black gold. I have seen the Dalai Lama when he visited a local college, I have heard him talk, I have heard his voice. His Voice is the voice of justice and exceptance. It is also the voice of strength, I hope we do realize that we should not support Tibet because it hurts us, or will hurt us (globalization of China) but because suffering is suffering. China does unspeakable acts to it's people and the Tibeten People. (http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/13247913/the_end_of_tibet). A once great and modest people have now become beggers and prostitutes in their once great city, in a country where peace resided at the top of the world, is now changing for the worse. The Dalai Lama said this in his speech, "Do public service, not because it is self less, but because it is the most selfish thing you can do, it will be more rewarding then anything." In the end, Save Tibet, Save Yourself

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Tony Evans,tampa, Fl — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:08:23 GMT

Easy Solution. Get WalMart to talk to the Chinese govt and everything shall be alright.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Peter Anastasia, Wilmington, NC — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:09:26 GMT

To Lama-san, Arkington : You say "the Tibetans are free to worship the Dalai Lama if they want." When did this change of policy take place. And are they allowed to show pictures of the Dalai Lama without being arrested...??????

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

David, Los Angeles, California — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:10:59 GMT

There are better ways of achieving a better standard of living and I don't think that they include forced copulation of monks and nuns, destruction of ancient monastaries, irreplacable texts burned, Buddha images looted and railway beds, such as the new train from Beijing built by slave labor under systematic starvation. No Ed, life as you point out is not fair.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Sharrukinu Akkad, Louisville, KY — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:19:51 GMT

The title of this article grabbed my attention even more than its actual contents. "Is the Tibetan Way of Life in Jeopardy?" Is this a trick question? Are you kidding? It was in jeopardy the day the Maoists arrived more than 50 years ago. Today, it's more than "in jeopardy", it's something dire and unfair that we don't have a word for -- although the Navajo and Apache probably do. Hooray for free trade with China: in exchange for our government's hypocritical collusion with Maoist atrocity, we get poisonous food products and really cheap, readily breakable, crappy electronics. Thank your Congressman today!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Zeb — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:22:18 GMT

Tibet is being forced into submission by the Chinese regime. In this instance, the Chinese government is acting in a similar way to Sadam when he was young. This is a clear cut case of oppression. The world needs to step up before China begins to think they are untouchable. Vlad Putin (President of Russia) also needs to be delt with before WWIII happens. With just these two problem the world could fall into total economic and social collapse, the way we live will never be the same if something is not done about oppressive governments. F.Y.I.; I am opposed to the war in Iraq, so please do not think I'm just another dolt trying to voice an uninformed opinion.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Stacey J. Parker — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:23:21 GMT

Unbelievable!!! What the English did to the Native American Indians is the same thing they did to the Aborigines in Australia. The Spanish and Portugues did it to the indigenious people of South America. The Christians did it to most of the world. It is called HOSTILE TAKEOVER. Nobody wants it, or likes it, especially if you are the ones being taken over. But history seems to prove mankind can't help themselves.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Stacey J. Parker Jacksonville, FL — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:26:30 GMT

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Jessica, San Diego CA — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:33:15 GMT

I agree with many of you...I have many Tibetan friends in exile and have visited one of their families in the Sichuan province outside of the Tibet Autonomous Region. I had a wonderful time but was very aware of the Chinese and their growing presence in the rural areas. I had planned to travel further inside Tibet but was informed that I wouldn't be allowed to stay with my friends families without Chinese supervision. I think that is bogus. Also many of my Tibetan friends haven't been allowed to return for over 25 years to see their families...also bogus.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

John Doe, Ca — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:33:52 GMT

Ha don't even go there about the US should be steeping into anything. of Course all your going to get is "OOO this crap is terrisom and bomb the whole place up" Before the US do anything about china they should take care of their own problem first.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Jim, DC — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:47:21 GMT

Sharan, obviously you don't know your history. Here is a little history lesson for you from wikipedia - In 1914, representatives of China, Tibet and Britain negotiated a treaty in India: the Simla Convention. During the convention, the British tried to divide Tibet into Inner and Outer Tibet. When negotiations broke down over the specific boundary between Inner and Outer, the British demanded instead to advance their line of control, enabling them to annex 90,000 square kilometers of traditional Tibetan territory in southern Tibet, which corresponds to most of the modern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, while recognizing Chinese suzerainty over Tibet[29]. Tibetan representatives secretly signed under British pressure; however, the representative of China's central government declared that the secretive annexation of territory was not acceptable. The boundary established in the convention, the McMahon Line, was considered by the British and later the independent Indian government to be the boundary; however, the Chinese view since then has been that since China, which was sovereign over Tibet, did not sign the treaty, the treaty was meaningless, and the annexation and control of southern Tibet Arunachal Pradesh by India is illegal. This paved the way to the Sino-Indian War of 1962 and the boundary dispute between China and India today.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

tiredof everyonebeingtouchyfeely — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:47:38 GMT

aww the heck with them we got problems here to fix

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

tiredof everyonebeingtouchyfeely — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:48:09 GMT

aww the heck with them we got problems here to fix

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

J.Shimoda — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:49:20 GMT

Ever see "Cave of the Yellow Dog", "Story of the Weeping Camel", "Genghis Blues"? It's very sad the Tibetans way of live is forced to disappear. They seem happy, why ruin things for them? It's a tragedy and surely somehow is WalMart's fault. not even the Chinese should have the "right" to turn everyone into Americans. These Tibetans leave no footprint on the earth, they aren't consumers. They should be free as they need to be.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

lk — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 20:51:31 GMT

To Keith, Quinault WA Great analogy. You are a real genius.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Bryan, Minneapolis, MN — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:07:42 GMT

"The Tibetans, a friendly, peaceful people, didn't ask for development. " Remember, the Tibetans weren't always in this position. They too have gone into China in the past and invaded the Chinese. They too are capable of corrupt acts. Just because they live in a predominantly Buddhist culture, doesn't mean they are all devout Buddhists by nature (see Christian America). I am not defending what the Chinese are doing to the Tibetans, but you have to put it into context. They were not always the 'oppressed'. And what about the other minority groups in that region that are being stamped out through this process of 'economic development'? You have the Dai minority group in Yunnan. You have the Uyghurs (predominantly Muslim) in the NW. You have 50+ groups in China that are suffering the same fate, yet hardly get any attention through the international media. I would just like to see fair media coverage of the human rights issue as a whole in China rather than just give lip service to the 'peace loving, happy Tibetan nomads'. Economic development carries a pretty heavy social pricetag sometimes. But, you have to remember that no person is happy with poverty. No person wishes to constantly worry about their next meal or if they have money to give their children an education. This part of the issue gets so easily overlooked in the face of something that is so reminiscent of the extermination of the native culture that has occurred here in the US. I just ask that you don't get lost in that thought, and remember that not everything that is being done to the Tibetan culture is bad.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Debra Butte Montana — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:16:14 GMT

I have read through all of these statements or Blogs if you will and it all boils down to, China is taking over. I was told when I was little, that we were afraid of Russia. In these days, China. The Bible does say that one day the yellow race will rule. I believe we cannot stop what ever is going on, no matter what we do. I think the strongest thing we have is prayer. What truely amazes me is that,So many people all human, cannot live together on this earth without Hate, It is such a terrible thing. If we would just try to live in peace with each other. The world would be a better place. That won't happen because of greed an power.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Perry Callas, Redmond, OR — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:27:14 GMT

Who ranks as the highest? One who does not harm anything. One who never retaliates. One who is always at peace regardless of the other person's disposition. - Buddha

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Leo Robinson, Newport Beach, CA. — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:58:11 GMT

What is happening and continues to happen in Tibet is not much different than what is happening and continues to happen in Zimbabwe and Robert Mugabe under the guise of "land reform." To give or develop land for the benefit of the "poor" it first must be taken from someone else. The "someone else" is normally portrayed as rich, greedy or any other derogatory term most likely to get the maximum sympathy on behalf of the receiver and indirectly, if not to subtly, enshrining the entire process as an example of “good government"... looking out for the downtrodden,what a joke. The same process happens in America where local government takes property from the lawful owner and gives it to another all on behalf of the economy or improving a newly designated “blighted” neighborhood or any one of a dozen reasons the bureaucrats can come up with. Government land grabs are nothing more than plunder albeit, as Henry Hazlett, states “legal plunder" for, after all, the government can’t do anything illegal, right?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

John Smith — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:13:33 GMT

The issue of freedom is an universal one. Those who put forward the official party line on China that Tibetans are better off now than before are ignoring the most basic need of all humans, autonomy. Remember that individual autonomy is the enemy of dictatorships everywhere, China, America, Russia, Korea. There is no doubt Tibetan autonomy is being suppressed. This suppression will eventually be turned towards the Chinese people themselves. What a revolution that will be!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

James Silverton, Potomac, MD — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:14:37 GMT

Good Old Tibet: serfdom and squalor! Perhaps the occupation by China is bad but I would not like to see Tibet return to its old ways.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Dawn Nottingham England — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:17:14 GMT

To Joe St Cloud Minn Surely exchanging anecdotal evidence is a move towards doing something about it. If only to raise awareness, it is a postive move in the right direction

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Bob Smith, California — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:32:28 GMT

This sounds like what the U.S. has and continues to do to American Indians from their own lands and resources, making them the poorest people on their own lands. Shame, shame, shame!!!!!!!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Joe Penkala, Telluride Co. — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 22:41:07 GMT

It's no different than when the U. S government slaughtered most of the native american population. They are doing the same in the middle east, africa, and china. Instead of giving them blankets infected with smallpox we are giving them AIDS and taking their land for our own gain. Too bad most americans are fat, dumb, and happy, or else we wouldn't have the world that we have.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

G Zitpa, Wash. — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 23:23:01 GMT

Helas,one forgets the hundred of thousands refugees in New Delhi and all over the world .Helas what the Chinese have done to the Thibetains they have done to us all =We have lost incredible medicinal knowledge ,lost immense medical librairies,trampled incredible amount of Art and artifacts ..the Thibetains and us are the losers. Mr Wong is a selfless dedicated explorer and his books are priceless in the information they bring to us and NASA.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Matt Man — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 23:29:29 GMT

Who cares what's on top of Tibetan plateau yaks or monks, what's underneath it? Is there oil? Even if there's, we would be better off having less people on top of the plateau, otherwise think of the massive humanitarian burden that we have to take care. Now that we caused 4 million Iraqi's to shit else where, think of us causing similar number of Tibetans shit elsewhere. Soon enough we would make the whole world shitty place except for a few places where there's oil!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Sean, Torrington CT — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 23:30:27 GMT

If Tibet had oil, the US would be there freeing them from their religious persecution.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Tenzin, San Francisco — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 23:47:26 GMT

Lama San, If you believe life is much better now in Tibet, then why did you come to America ?? don't answer.. it is simple one word " F R E E D O M ". This very word will send shivers down the spine of every dictatorship in the world. Did you experience the true meaning of Freedom from foreign occupation. How can you be so ignorant to say People in Tibet have freedom to practice religion when communist philosophy is to equate religion to poison. The real Buddhist religion is the Buddha's teaching and not communist version or interpertation of Buddhism. Please open your eyes, ears, heart and mind and then speak. If every Tibetan living in Tibet under the Chinese occupation are happy then be it so. please do not interpret you happiness to all people of Tibet.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Little Bo Peep — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:25:59 GMT

LAma-San is not tibetan at all....LAma-san is posing as a tibetan so that he can speak with authority about something he knows nothing about in reality. LAma-san is probably some neo-con Chinese American

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

John Doe, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:40:51 GMT

We should boycott the 2008 China Olympics to show the world we don't stand for this kind of aggression. Free Tibet! Free the whales too while you at it! Boycott Japan!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

LinB, cincinnati OH — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:20:24 GMT

the chinese are doing nothing different than what the U.S. did to my ancestors when the forced the Cherokee on the trail of tears. . . they didn't care then and they don't care now. if you think they do, go to the Oglala Souix reservation and you will see what real poverty and desperation is. as someone else mentioned, if there were oil in the mix, we'd be the first one there.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

IRINA, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:33:03 GMT

How wonderful that we live in a free society, where we can all express our own views and ideas. Please note that no-one who lives under the Chinese Communist regime can even read this, let alone comment. There is no freedom of expression or religion for ANYONE who lives under this regime, Chinese, Tibetan, Uigher etc etc.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

tony chen, melbourne, australia — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 01:44:09 GMT

There are over 200 ethic minorities in china, why are Tibetans getting all the attention. This is yet another political platform for America to criticize china's internal politics. If you go to Tibet, yes there are loss of culture, but that loss of culture is occuring everywhere. The Han chinese are losing our culture to the americans as we become more westernised, but no one is talking about that. Hence the term is incorrectly used; it's more a merging of cultures between Han chinese and the ethic chinese. China certainly do not ethically eradicate a whole culture of people, like what happened in America with the indians, or the aborigines in australia or the blacks in south africa, or the jews in Nazi german. Even the Dali lama said that China will bring wealth and prosperity to Tibet, which will eventually be good for tibet and it's people. Remember that the issue of an independent tibet will never be a serious issue, as it has never been truely independent. And same with the issue with Taiwan, it has always been and always will be a part of china, and Taiwan has never denied it. Just read it's constitution. In the end, it's essentially about politics, and don't believe everything you read, the world is neither as good or as bad as the media makes it out to be. If you want to fight injustice in the world, go to Africa, South America, the Middle East go and fix your own country first before criticising China, a country that has never started any wars in recent memory.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

madjimp, rochester, ny — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 02:03:03 GMT

During the 60s I tried to tell the Left that China thugs were murdering the people whose only crime was feeding the Lamas,but Mao(who also killed my comrades in Nam) could do no wrong... The Left was wrong then, and still is, now!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Z-Aiki, Greenville AL — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 02:14:01 GMT

China is the same as the Saudis and the UAE, propagating their way of life as better while brutalizing those around them that can't protect themselves. The sad part is that the US gov. lets it happen in the name of capitalism. This country, founded on ideals of freedom never before seen in any country, continues to ignore a country unless there is a dollar sign attached. The Israel of today wouldn't exist even though the Jews and Hebrews asked for it if there hadn't been something in it for the government. So, until there is, the Tibetans and other ethnic groups will continue to go the way of the Mayans, etc.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Jim, Washington DC — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 02:18:30 GMT

To Sharan - You are not well informed about the history of Andhra Pradesh. This is the second time I post this information hopefully MSNBC will let it through. Andhra Pradesh is a disputed territory. The following is from the wikipedia - "In 1914, representatives of China, Tibet and Britain negotiated a treaty in India: the Simla Convention. During the convention, the British tried to divide Tibet into Inner and Outer Tibet. When negotiations broke down over the specific boundary between Inner and Outer, the British demanded instead to advance their line of control, enabling them to annex 90,000 square kilometers of traditional Tibetan territory in southern Tibet, which corresponds to most of the modern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, while recognizing Chinese suzerainty over Tibet. Tibetan representatives secretly signed under British pressure; however, the representative of China's central government declared that the secretive annexation of territory was not acceptable. The boundary established in the convention, the McMahon Line, was considered by the British and later the independent Indian government to be the boundary; however, the Chinese view since then has been that since China, which was sovereign over Tibet, did not sign the treaty, the treaty was meaningless, and the annexation and control of southern Tibet Arunachal Pradesh by India is illegal." Today the population of people from india residing in Arunachal Pradesh is almost twice as much of the people in Tibet.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

brian fryer,delmar ny — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 03:10:17 GMT

they need to open casinos

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

SB, Washington DC — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 03:36:04 GMT

We can pontificate all we want BUT unless we stop supporting China by buying their goods, we are going to continue to support their raping of Tibet, Africa and South America! Not that the UK and US have not done the same! So - Go Figure !?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Michaelides, Austin, Tx — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 03:54:48 GMT

At one point or another all of our ancestors were peasants/nomads/hunter-gatherers. I find it somewhat strange that we who enjoy the benefits of industrialization/urbanization, would seek to force others to maintain this subsistence based survival. In the name of what? So that we can take pretty pictures of some colorful clothing and a couple of cow-like beasts, and say "wow, isn't that special, those happy looking herders lead the same lives of their great great great great grandparents." I'm sorry but don't we all want our kids to be better off than we are? Isn't that a basic premise of our species? Would you really want to go back to spending every waking moment babysitting a bunch of cows in order to keep something with pointy teeth from consuming your food source? It's not quite so romantic when you are the one poking the cow in the a** with a stick for the rest of your natural life, which incidentally would be comparatively short, but no doubt rich with culture... Now add in the knowledge that you kids will be no better off than you were. You spend 12 hours a day in that field so that your kids can too. Do you think that would make you happy or sad? It would make me very sad, which is why I don't plan on going back to Greece to be a fisherman living in a romantic straw hut like my grandfather. I don't advocate forcing people to live one way or another, but there's a reason we don't go back to our cultural roots. I also don't think it's right to let a culture stay in the stone age so that we can look over the fence and marvel at it. Ideally we would let them make their own choice, BUT it has never been that way in history. Economic/social conquest is how our ancestors lost their roots. Why would it be any different today?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Alex Koudlai — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 05:15:26 GMT

Tibet must be liberated. Great many people were killed by the aggressor. Human rights were trampled. A religion was offended. The artifacts destroyed. The territories annexed. The liberty of the whole nation is being oppressed. The universal rationality and spirituality demands the restoration of justice. The humanitarian concerns demand moral and material support of those people brutally oppressed by morally defective and shallow-minded population of the neighboring country. The Chinese occupation was not provoked by peaceful Tibetans. This should never be tolerated by any country or any individual with conscience. The talks of corrupted politicians or bad policies of the US is irrelevant here. If we see something bad in our country lets try to fix it. But even though those should not blind us in respect to other iniquities on the planet. People of good will should protest all evils detected and fight them by all means available. Peaceful ways are preferable of course. Diplomacy, education, economic isolation of the aggressor should be our first resources. Also we should understand our real capabilities and act accordingly. But we should never tolerate injustice, especially such obvious instanciation of it as in Tibet.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Sandra Frech, N. Haledon NJ — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 05:37:39 GMT

This is a reply to the email from "Lama-san, Arlington". I don't know when you were last in Tibet, but when I was there in 1999, the people in Lhasa and other areas could not worship or even speak about the Dalai Lama...nor have a photo of him anywhere. I wanted to give someone a photo, but was told they could be jailed...so did not. From what I have read, this is still the case. The new railroad is the beginning of the end for Tibetan culture as is was...now there will be a few token monastaries and monks for the tourists. The old buildings and homes are being torn down every day for high rise apartments. It is sad, as the people I came in contact with are lovely, and spiritual. Sandra F., New Jersey.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

rij — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 06:01:17 GMT

1) in economics, there is a saying that if there are two kinds of unequal currency then the expensive one slowly will be disappear. 2) there is a research saying that many of currently existing languages will be disappear soon and english will become stronger. 3) all people buy only cheap/good product and thus other products becomes out of market. -----------------what i wanna make sense here that, no matter what it is, even a culture or a country cannot remain exist if that culture does not have quality to exist. (i apologize for my poor english). how long time tibet will be protected. today if we want to protect it from china, tomorrow india will conquer it. day after tomorrow russis will take it. next iran will take it. next any other stronger nation will take it. if tibetans cannot protect themsleves, if they dont have the ability to change in order to exist in this world, by natures's most common rule ( as i mention on top) they eventually be disapper. no one can do nothing.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Maitreya Looi, Singapore — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 06:46:33 GMT

Hi Long, I’m also a Buddhist (minus those ritualistic part that can be spiritually damaging) and I too do not agree with the superstitious Tibetan culture that mixes politics with misinterpreted, disguised, non-Buddhistic practices. In fact, I see some similarities (but not quite the extend of magnitude) between the older Tibetan environment as compare to the Dark Ages of Europe (after the fall of the Roman empire), where power hungry, inhuman, practices reared it’s urgly heads… severely hindering social, scientific, eonomic & governmental developments through presecution of “witches”, suppression of Scientist (Copenicus / Galileo), feudalism, invasions, often in the name of Religion etc. As it took the Renaissaunce to trigger the reform of Europe, we need changes too in Tibet. While I am totally against oppression by any government and recognize that the Chinese had done so to Tibet, I also want to bring up to our fellow human beings, especially those from America, that it was their fore fathers who had taken the vast land from the natives of America, who had exploited millions of African slaves ‘brought’ across the Atlantic Ocean, who had occupied Hawaii and annex into the United States in 1898, who had actually sent its army & attacked China in 1900! Many Chinese national treasures stolen from Yiheyan (Summer Palace) of Beijing are yet to be returned… All I am saying is that we need to see things with wider perspective. If you truly want to help the people of Tibet, work with the Chinese people. The Chinese had made terrible mistakes, just like the earlier European & American powers had. But don’t expect them to leave, Tibet will be in chaos. Can you imagine America returning Hawaii now? To who? To the decendents of Queen Liliuokalani? Americans can’t even leave Iraq. Finally, please read American Theocracy by Kevin Phillips. Americans should start helping themselves first. It is within your Circle of Influence as Stephen Covey had highlighted in his “7 Habit” book I meant no mallace, only good. America is still the best hope for the world provided it stays true to its Constitutions. America had strayed and its time to return to its path.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Busuan, Jamul, CA — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 06:48:38 GMT

I am so touched by the overwhelming humanity shown by American people and other civilized free people, that I almost want to become an Iraqi.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Cleavis Lug — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 07:12:17 GMT

I had planned to visit Tibet several years ago but after reading several books by people who were in love with Tibet and its native culture, I changed my mind. There is nothing beautiful or exotic about a tradition of illiteracy, crippling superstition and a lack of interest in modern science. Who can blame any foreign government for trying to change such a backwards country bordering their own?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Larry K — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 07:31:15 GMT

Prayer is the deciding factor. You all have the power to move the heart of God. Get a map of the world or a globe and put your hands on it as a point of contact. It's just a matter of time before the bamboo curtain falls. Evil destroys its own resources over time. Pray for China. Pray for Tibet's oppressed people. Watch and see.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Arthur Sinc — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 08:02:17 GMT

Free Tibet, what hypocracy. What about free the Southern States Of America. Illegaly occupied and no autonomy. No right of independence either after nearly million people slaughtered to extinguish Confederate independance.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Chris Malone, Kanazawa, Japan — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 08:58:16 GMT

China invaded Tibet for three reasons: It was defensless; no army, no military alliances. Second, it is a great buffer between China and India. Mao was, for good reason, terrified of a land war with the second most populous nation. Third, it was a land grab - territory, timber, minerals. The bottom line is that it was probably the most craven act in modern military history. China couldn't even defend itself against tiny Japan, but as soon as the US defeated Japan and liberated China, Mao crawled out from under his bed and suddenly got brave.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Stacy, parts north — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 08:58:54 GMT

Did anyone ever bother to consider that China taking over Tibet was a good thing? Think about it. 50 years ago, who really knew anything about Tibet or its people? Now Tibetans are out in the world. Their history, religion, and customs are no longer hidden away in their mountain kingdom. The Tibetans aren't any less Tibetan. Tibet is still there. But now they're known to the rest of the world, and as such they can never cease to be. And the rest of the world is richer for the knowledge.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

raam, bangalore, india — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:02:15 GMT

No LAND IS OCCUPIED TO GIVE PROGRESS TO IT. WHETHER ITS IRAQ, TIBET OR ANY. ITS US ATTACKED IRAQ THE ONE ONLY MUSLIM COUNTRY WHERE OTHERS ARE GIVEN RESPECT IS DOWN!! AND DOES IRAQIS GET PEACE BY FALL OF SADDAM. MORE PEOPLE ARE KILLED THAN THE SADDAMs TIME. MORE DAMAGE IS MADE THAN SADDAMs TIME.. SO CALLED KINDNESS OF FREE COUNTRY... DEAR AMERICAN BROTHERS PLEASE READ CHOMSKY. LOOK AROUND OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOWS.. ITS ALL OIL... THEN YOU WILL UNDERSTAND HOW ARE YOU GETTING FOOLED.. WHILE EDUCATION IS SAID TO MAKE PEOPLE MORE SENSIBLE.. Y THE MAJORITY IS BECOMING SELFISH AND NARROW MINDED WAS THIS THE EDUCATION MEANT TO DO?

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Rountreed, Tulsa OK — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 09:17:17 GMT

To the victor go the spoils! I am sorry the fact is that China won and they lost (I know same with Indians is the US) so China will do what is in its nations best self interest. The Tibetan people will have to accommodate a new life style and transition to new realities. As far as looking at the US to help them out I am sorry our plate is full and I think what they are undergoing is not even close to several countries in Africa that do have oil. Is it sad, yes but instead of saying we should help preserve their current life style maybe we should help them move on to a new life style. I do not see any country fighting a war over Tibet with China, the result of such a war would result potentially in mankind’s destruction. So before giving your heart filled guidance please take a moment and look at the big picture and the global reality.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Ho-Pan O-ren, Hualien, Taiwan — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 10:00:15 GMT

The Communist Chinese (I refer to them that way because I reside in Taiwan, among the Democratic Chinese) are only attempting to emulate the "Good Ol' USA" where the dollar can buy exemption from criminal offenses, political influence (read: maintenance of a wealthy upper class), and oppression of people who actually work for a living. Look at the example that Americans have set for the world to follow, and you will understand why the Communist Chinese see it as being critical to their survival to accumulate and abuse natural resources, commit genocide, and exchange natural beauty for profitable pollution. "Sean" in Torrington, you have hit the nail on the head. The USA only supports the ability to earn profits fo the upper class, and will do so using military force in the abscence of provocation (e.g. Iraq). I suppose we can attribute this to "human nature". After all, when has man ever been truly benevolent, kindhearted, and respectful of other cultures? Here's the equation: PRC = USA - 150 years. Watch them catch up quickly; they have 5 times as many citizens to utilize in the effort to "modernize", "progress", and "conquer the world".

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Ravi, Chennai, India — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:03:23 GMT

This is in response to comments from Sharan, Alameda, California. It is not the south Indian state ofAndhra Pradesh that China claims, instead its the North Eastern State of Arunachal Pradesh which borders China, that they claim is theirs. In fact the Chinese Ambassador to India claimed that, instantly creating an uproar and public demanding why he was still being tolerated by India. 'Pradesh' in Hindi means a State.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

JT_IB, STL, MO. — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:11:14 GMT

food for thought, my friend in china will not be able to even read this story. also do not forget the seven tibetens that were shoot while trying to cross the boarder. No media, no freedom, no life.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

buddha dude — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:00:29 GMT

Lama-san sounds like chinese gov't propagandist to me. As do some others here. Man, are they tricky. They will do and say anything to achieve their expansionist/economic objectives. Kind of like how they arrested that 6 yr old panchan lama and replaced him with a chinese puppet lama.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

D. Vukusich, Toa Baja, PR — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:35:12 GMT

Although Lama-san, as a Tibetan, may merit more attention to his views than some others who have only been tourists in Tibet and not residents, I believe that persons like Kris bring out specific facts that offer greater credibility on this matter. I'm far removed from the Tibetan issue but by using some bits of history elsewhere that I'm privy to, I believe I can offer a good opinion. I had family members "coaxed" to change their last name because of the wrong ethnicity in the aftermath of WWI when Mussolini soon claimed to the League of Nations that people in Istria and other Southern Slavic areas of former Austria were really Italians and therefore the region was really part of a greater Italy. That they may have spoken a form of Italian thanks to Austrian educational tolerance and economic practicalities wasn't relevant. Then, too, I currently live in Puerto Rico where I have roots and where various outsiders would have others believe people here are deprived of their freedom and should be given their independence, despite over 95% of the many native-born residents, with or without their TVs and cars and their overwhelming use of Spanish in mind, consistently rejecting the independence party at the polls. The alternatives offered throughout much of the "free" Caribbean only further support their choice. Only good analyses rate merit. It's obvious China has had unusually big eyes when it comes to its neighbors and, like a stalking cat, it may divert its eyes occasionally but continues moving forward. Tibet historically wasn't part of China according to the Asian history I've read. True, the USA has not been perfect during its historical acquisition of territories but keeping quiet on Tibet shouldn't be, and is not, a modern American trait. It may be in totalitarian China despite current international free trade (of increasingly contaminated goods).

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Arthur, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:46:02 GMT

Tibet was not a paradise before the Chinese took over in the 1950s and it is not a paradise now. If given the opportunity (don't hold your breath) the Tibetans would vote for autonomy or independence. Why? Because most peoples prefer to be locally governed, something that Tibet cannot presently do, except in minor ways. The authority still flows from Beijing. And when the world saw what was happening, nothing was done. The Korean conflict seemed closer to home for most other governments. But that said, Tibetan culture is probably more resilient than it is given credit for being. In time they may have an opportunity to show the resilience and the strength of their traditional culture.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Michael McCroskey, Tennessee — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:25:19 GMT

I'm not sure where to start . . . First, to Jim from DC - thank you for trying to inject facts to an issue that is obviously way too emotional for most of these posters. There are several other posters that understand the complexity of the issues in Tibet, and their insightful words are also appreciated. Unfotunately, most of the posters here are basing their opinions (like most Americans and all too many Westerners in general) on old propaganda and a mistaken belief that Mainland China today is still Maoist - and nothing could be further from the truth. Why do I feel the right to add to this discussion? I have built a business in Chengdu, capital of the SiChuan region. I have been a part of sister-city exchanges and active in the Chengdu community for over 3 years now. I have seen FIRST HAND the changes in Mainland China that are evident each time I return (I commute regularly between my home here in TN and Chengdu). China is a country that is changing almost daily, both structurally and politically. If you haven't re-visited Mainland China in the last 2 years, you won't recognize where you did visit, I assure you. I have been fortunate to travel throughout many areas of Mainland China and talk with many people, from government officials, retired military, plain ordinary Chinese people and even our own government personel at our embassy. When I travel, I travel freely with my friends and employees. There have been no retrictions (many people in the West still think you cannot travel in China without some sort of government supervision - this is simply not correct). I'm not going to try to "tell you like it is," instead I'm going to plead with you to visit this QUICKLY changing country. China is going to be a MAJOR player in the 21st century, the same way Europe was in the 19th, and America was in the 20th. You can either recognize this, or deny (reseach the web for news accounts from Europe at the beginning of the 20th century - the critics of America's "rise" then sound almost the same as critics of China today). Visit Guan'an - hometown of Deng Xao Ping, the Chinese leader that set China on its current course back in the 1970's. In the Chinese government-run museum there, you can read in both Chinese and English about the "mistakes" of the cultural revolution. Mao will always be revered by the Chinese because he UNIFIED CHINA, but modern Mainland China also understands and openly discusses the abuses and killings that went on during Mao's rule (kinda reminds me how we revere many US Presidents during the western expansion of the 1800's). Someone else correctly touched on the history of Tibet, and if anyone thinks Tibet is this nice, calm religious haven, you are sorely mistaken. A Chinese friend of mine had opened a restaurant, in the capital city no less, only to close it in less than a year. The Reason? - local thugs regualarly came into his restaurant demanding protection money. Keep in mind, this is a Chinese citizen and the thugs were Tibetan. There is so much more I want to say, but this is alreasy too long as it is. I will close by simply saying I am no communist sympathizer. I was named "Young Republican of the Year" for TN in my younger days, and I proudly attended 2 Republican National Conventions as an alternate delegate from Tennessee. I also served as the Chair of the Registry of Election Finance for TN (the state ethics commission), a governor's appointment. I say these things not to brag, but to give perspective that I had nothing but expectations of disliking Mainland China when I first visted there over 3 years ago. My eyes are now open, and I greatly wish the same for the rest of my fellow Americans. The stakes are too high to not learn the facts of Mainland China today.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Michael — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:26:53 GMT

Heh, no one seem to remember the part where the CIA raised on Army in Tibet and launched attacks in chinese settlements... Or the part America abandoned the same said armies to the wolves when China counterattacked.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Michael McCroskey, Tennessee — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:33:15 GMT

One last point - while in China, I make regualar use of the internet, including regualar visits to MSN.com (my homepage is set there) and even ESPN to get sports updates. The connection I have is the same as my employees and friends. The Chinese do filter their internet (they seems especially concerned about porn and gambling), but while hardly totaly open, it is also incorrect so say there is "no media, no freedom, no life."

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

alexis m. , hialeah, florida — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:49:19 GMT

to JT_IB, STL, MO : yep i agree u made a great point . short/sweet and so very true.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

David Powell — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:50:41 GMT

Peole joke about WalMart - This country seems to into getting cheap stuff from China to care about Tibet, or about he Chinese gov't messing up the environment, or political freedoms for more people there, or even the condition of the food China exports to the US. A lot of $$$ shouldn't stop the US from caring about those things... the US can always get stuff elsewhere. heck maybe even make some here again.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Shane, Perrinton, MI — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:51:19 GMT

I'm surprised to see so many opinions on a country that hasn't really existed in 50 years. First I wanted to point out that Tibetans don't worship the Dali Lama, or any other "God". The Dali Lama is simply a spritual leader, much like the Pope is to Catholics. Lama-san who claims to be from Tibet is mis-educated about their religion and many other parts of tibetan life. I guess what really surprises me however, is that people could possibly consider the PRC (people's reb. of China) to have had a positive impact on the Tibetan's way of life. Arther Sinc above, seems to believe that the US's own Civil war is somehow comparable to the way the PRC crushed the peaceful people of Tibet. The "Union" fought the South to free the slaves, and provide democracy to all people, which is all I would hope could happen for Tibet. The major difference is that the South didn't care about having a different religion, or even a different political view, they quite simply were greedy plantation owners who brainwashed the rural folks into believing that one's skin color determines whether or not they deserve freedom. Hypocrisy? Hardly. It's called ignorance.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

James Crat,New York, New York — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:09:32 GMT

Hey Larry K Dont bring God into this conversation...were talking about tibet not a fictional character...there's always a religious fanatic that needs to bring religion into everything

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

BJ Bilinsky, Leesbrug, FL — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:34:32 GMT

Weep for freedom. It is dying everywhere. Like the phoenix it will arise from the ashes.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

David, Philadelphia — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:46:16 GMT

I just returned from a trip to Llhasa and Tsetang. The Tibetans have freedom of religion, every morning, thousands walk clockwise through Jokhang temple and around Potala palace with their prayer wheels. The Chinese have rebuilt the temples, monasteries, and palaces. Did you know that schooling is not free in Tibet? According to our tibetan tour guide, it costs $100RMB/mo. to send kids to school in Lhasa, and a little less in the smaller towns? Only the people that are well off have a chance to goto school. I asked about the money that the Chinese gov't gives to Tibet for education. He said that the Tibetan gov't is using the money in other ways. It doesn't seem prudent to take the money that should be used for education for other things.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Paige Taylor, new port richey, fl — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 14:59:58 GMT

Why is it that countries like China, the USA think that "our way" is the "better for you way"? Dictating to others that they will be better off. We should require all leaders to spend a week in other peoples shoes. It is so much easier to look from the outside in.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Jim, Washington DC — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:08:37 GMT

Michael McCroskey from Tennessee, thank you for bring some facts to this discussion. People should know the fact before they speak out. Tibet has never been a sovereign country. Both Mainland China and Taiwan claim sovereignty over Tibet. The notion of China invading the country of Tibet is disputed. Secondly we Americans can't just sit here and claim we know what Tibetans want. Maybe they do want plasma TV and SUVs. Maybe they are tired of normad lives and want to settle down in a town. The fact is we know little about Tibetans and their lives. We all know how that turns out trying to inject democracy into Iraq.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Terrence, Annapolis, MD — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:44:47 GMT

This is in response to Ho-Pan O-ren, Hualien, Taiwan. This person has NO truth or facts in his diatribe about the U.S. I have lived here over sixty years and find Rule of Law and Justice to be available to citizens. The U.S. is not perfect but George Washington and the founders started a moral test of character that we are still trying to fulfill. Also, those who say we went to IRAQ for oil are silly, try National Security - just analyze the financial cost.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Moeen, Queens, New York — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 19:11:56 GMT

Sadly, yes the Tibetan way of life is in jeopardy. But it's not just the Tibetans. The Uyghurs, a Turkic people of western China face similar repression. Han Chinese are relocated there to try and get the Uyghurs to assimilate; the result is that economically little has changed for them, fueling resentment. Similarly the Uyghurs face long term imprisonment and even execution if they try and speak out. An example of this is shown in the following documentary from Frontline World: http://www.pbs.org/frontlineworld/stories/china401/ If there is any way people can get the U.S. government to somehow put pressure on the Chinese government to end these atrocities we have to try. Sure the U.S. government may have done similar things the past, but to sit back and watch will only make problems worse. Given that Americans are benefiting from products made in China, we're hardly neutral observers and should do something.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Maitreya Looi, Singapore — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:51:28 GMT

To Arthur from San Francisco, your sharing is most useful. I truly wish that more westerners, especially Americans attempt to better understand the rest of the world in a more comprehensive manner. Given your background, I'm sure you are aware of Kevin Phillips. As I have recommended in my earlier post, please do read "American Theocracy" written by him and help adjust the path of this great nation of America. I had travelled more than 40x each to US and China, there are a lot that people from these two countries can work together!

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Maitreya Looi, Singapore — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 01:54:21 GMT

Sorry, I meant to address to Mr. Michael McCroskey, Tennessee

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Kevin Krol, Honesdale,PA. — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 02:01:27 GMT

This would tend to be a nuclear proving groung for China's agressive spearhead in their world dominance. Shangrala is only a pipe dream for the remaining populace.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Chris, Beijing, China — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 13:39:23 GMT

why is it that so many posters from the United States, with the exception of Lama-San (who is from Tibet), have absolutley no comprhension of history, theirs or Tibets. Cultural assimilation is inevitable for all minorities in China, and everywhere else. If they want to better their lives (and yes living on more than two dollars a day does better people's lives) they must speak Mandarin. I think that most people that have never been to Tibet seem to buy this Shangri-la stereotype of the culture, religion and people, (happy nomads, bouncing around the platue in peace and harmony). While it is true that Tibets are some of the most welcoming people in the world, their lives have never been easy, or happy, or even peaceful. If anyone would like a more balanced view of what Tibet was like before and after Chinese "invasion" I recommend Tashi Tsering's "The Search for a Modern Tibet."

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

Shane, Perrinton, MI — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 16:55:55 GMT

Chris from Beijing-

Why should you or any one in the PRC be able to decide what is better for the people of Tibet? Is it your belief that they reflect back 1950 and think to themselves "boy, things sure are great since the occupation"? Their political and spritual leader was forced to escape to India to avoid assination, while hundreds of thousands (300,000 according to the PRC, and estimates of up to 1.2 million by exiles) of Tibetans were killed between '50 and '59 . According to the PRC counts 6,500 monestaries were destroyed. The PRC also decided that they have the right to name all future Lamas, including the current Panchen Lama. The 11th Panchen Lama who was named by the Dali Lama has gone missing, along with his family, presumably at the hands of the PRC who wish to have their own people control the Buddest religion. That may be progress to you, but I fail to see it.

Is the Tibetan way of life in jeopardy?

jim bell — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:47:37 GMT

having read all the posts,(including my own,which seems to be slightly shorter, than when I wrote it...) I concur with several of the posters: pray, believe,and BOYCOTT THE CHINA OLYMPICS!
Remember, if you're tired of the status quo, there's always the SOKOSOMOSI... jaime