China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Tara Overzat, Atlanta, Georgia — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:56:59 GMT

Having taught in China, I do agree that Little Emperor Syndrome has run amuck. Teaching Confucius in school, however, is not the answer. Teaching morals begins at home. As long as the government demands there only be one child per family, we will see relatives overcompensating by, oddly enough, not teaching morals or the values of hard work at all.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

R.M. portland or — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:59:50 GMT

at least the chinese know what morals are and teach them...we sure dont have ANY in the portland area do we...

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

doe, san francisco,ca — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:33:45 GMT

That's nice to know how spritual lifestyles are making china better. The confucanism being taught is heavily edited and interpreted. I was recently told by a Chinese senior telecom engineer in China that confucious taught stealing a book is not stealingit is gaining knowledge. So much for IP protection. And I was recently invited to the office spaces in theh back of the approved Catholic Church in Beijing. I ws offered knock off paintings and or prostitutes if I preferred. And it's wonderful to visit the 1500 year old temples around Beijing where you can visit the nunnery or play whack a mole or rifle target shooting. I think they teach tis in teh Buddhist Masters program they have now to teach the monk how to maximize profits. I've been there ten years. It just gets better.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Andy G, Arcadia CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:46:19 GMT

I find your comments interesting, but you are not covering any new ground here. What you have described has been happening in the West for at least a generation. I have never come close to having to deal with what my parents went through in occupied Holland. If the Chinese want to see what will happen to their kids, all they have to do is look across the Pacific at America's Generation X and Y and they will find their answers.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mike in Sacramento, CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:50:40 GMT

Something like this is long-overdue in America. Our kids have turned into snotty little "me-me-me" brats with no consideration for others. Some humility, manners, and consideration of others indoctrination would be a blessing.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Karen R. Owens, Downingtown, PA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:51:16 GMT

For more on this and other current topics, pick up a copy of the new book, China Road: A Journey into the Future of a Rising Power, by Rob Gifford (2007). The author speaks Mandarin and lived for several years in China working as a journalist. This very readable book chronicles his 3000 mile trip along Route 312 (the ancient Silk Road) from the coastal metropolis of Shanghai to the western border with Kazakhstan. He recounts the sights and sounds and his conversations with a variety of people he meets along the way, and he places everything in the context of China's history. Very interesting and has received highly positive reviews. I recommend this book to anyone interested in China.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Doug Prescient — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 15:57:34 GMT

Why are we trying to create so many business ties to China, a country with a terrible human rights track record? I could care less about their bratty children, let's start concentrating on strengthening our economy and not theirs.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Laura, Quad Cities, USA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:02:38 GMT

I've seen the same thing here, in this country. A couple chooses to have only one child and caters to that childs every whim. What you get in the end, if the child isn't taught proper, civilized behavior, is a selfish, spoiled adult who cares only for him/herself. Walk through any grocery store or mall. You will come across at least a half-dozen screaming children, demanding whatever they want. The parents try to talk to them as though they as full-grown adults with the ability to reason. The parents want to be the child's friend. The child becomes the parent, telling (at times, demanding) that they get their way. At least the Chinese are trying to correct the problem. We just ignore it.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Candy Green, Cleveland, Georgia — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:17:13 GMT

During the past 10 years, as an American,I taught English to Chinese students in New Zealand, most of them Little Emperors.
These young people don't know/have not been taught,
for instance,the difference between scholarship and plagerism. However, they do know how to work together to achieve success, even if it means what we in the West would call cheating. In my mind it's linked to Democracy
which brings personal responsibility, but both cultures have much to learn from each other. It would seem what the world needs now might be what the French call "politesse."

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Yad Sen — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:19:22 GMT

Interesting. Growing up my family was heavily kid populated, and there were many times when money was tight, so I've always wondered how come rich families have usually have only a small number of kids. If they can afford it, why not? Brothers and sisters are a wonderful gift. I guess in China its the law to only have one, but still.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Daniel Evensen, Provo, Utah — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:21:47 GMT

Great article. Having spent a considerable amount of time in China (mostly Nanjing), and being married to a wonderful girl from Taiwan, I agree with your analysis.

Of course, the emergence of a greedy wealthy class is nothing new from the Chinese historical perspective. Granted, orthodox Confucianism taught that such behavior should be shunned, but even a quick glance at the legacy of wars, insurrections and cronyism that composed thousands of years of Imperial China shows this is no new phenomenon.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jeno Kohner,Dorval,Qc.Canada — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:43:16 GMT

An interesting article- the one child per family policy does not allow for interaction between siblings.Classes in Cofucius'teachings are important in order to nourish and maintain community. Obviously an atheist government has recognised its bankruptcy in this area,and is now allowing "spiritual alternatives" to make up for its shortfalls.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Ray, Florida — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:44:46 GMT

Having spent 47 weeks (off and on) in Shanghai & Beijing over the past 3 years, I kept telling everyone who asked that Americans & Chinese had much more in commo than people realized. This article agrees.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

V Brady Denver, CO — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:56:52 GMT

We are a world with this same problem! Our children value nothing because it is given and not earned. The next generation of the workforce will bring this sense of entitlement and we are already seeing this type of "you owe me" attitude. We no longer dicipline out of fear of being labled an abusive parents and over endulge them for that bad behavior. It will be an interesting world in 2-3 generations.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jeff, Redmond WA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:10:21 GMT

The ability of child to exert self control starts with learning simple boundaries at a very young age which must be imposed by their parents. Half my family is Chinese and half, Caucasion. I have seen it clearly and wonder what that generation will have to offer the world. The grand experiment unfolds!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

T. Adams Beijing, P.R.C. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:22:10 GMT

Unfortunately, children learn more by observation than they ever will in classes taught by strangers. These same children, watch their parent push and shove others aside to get off and on trains, buses and even elevators, first. These parents fight and struggle over a seat on a bus or train. They sit and watch their parents drive through a group of pedestrians crossing with the light, honking and insisting on preference. They witness a parent reaching over a person in front of them to pro-offer their money for the purchase of tickets, or the weighing of the produce in the market. These children see their parents rush a taxi obviously being heralded by a person standing there waiting ahead of them, and then they worry about their child's manners? Hardly!!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Deryl, Atlanta GA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:24:49 GMT

Teaching morals to a child is not about making them act in the intended way now, it is about making them act that way later when it is more important. For now they'll do as children do fighting and the like. Later is when they'll appreciate what you taught if you taught it. Your choice.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Phil Monroe — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:25:20 GMT

Welcome to the wild West, China.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jim Espinoza — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:42:46 GMT

Let's see . Chinese parents are wondering about the lack of appreciation by their kids of China's new found wealth . Explain it to them this way . " Don't waste your food children . Think of all the poor hungry American kids who have no food at all . "
Maybe the American people can help by imposing a boycott of Chinese products before the Chinese government swallows all there is left of the American economy ! The Chinese are presently at war with the U.S.economy and our leaders are accomplices to the demise of our once great industrial nation .

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Tina Khabir — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:47:56 GMT

I'm touched by a nation that educates their children manners. I truly wish we could do more for our children in our country. I am continually surprised at our youth's attitude of arrogance and "You owe me" attitude, forget about manner's. Thank you for sharing this story.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Ann Melichar, Alexandria, Louisiana — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:59:03 GMT

Value teaching in the US is being officially banned by the government while in China morality is being taught. Which nation will be stronger in 20 years? There is a way that seems right, but the end is destruction. The teachings of Christ may apply to the muse expressed in your last sentence: human beings are born selfish and can only overcome it by faith. The just will live by it.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Catherine — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:59:55 GMT

With whom shall The Little Emporers marry?

There doesn't seem to be a plethora of Chinese females for them to choose from, and surely, no Western woman will put up with them.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

CaptAmerica1968 — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:15:02 GMT

Where are the Christians in china? Seesm to me some christian missionaries could provide some current value lessons on prosperity and manners.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

John, Colorado Springs, CO — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:33:21 GMT

Glass houses people, glass houses!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

CaptAmerica1968 — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:38:17 GMT

Wow looking at these comments there seem to be alot of old childless whiners posting.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jason P, Richmond, Va. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:38:57 GMT

This is a great article. I like your insight and observations. It really makes you think about some challenges China will face with all of their new found success. Yes the economy is growing, but overall I feel like the morale of the country is falling greatly.

It may not have a HUGE effect but a large portion of Chinese men are not able to find partners to start families with. China should really rethink the 1 child per family law.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Con Fucius, Buffalo, NY — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:41:26 GMT

To most Americans China is a threat no matter what they do. They could be handing out one hundred dollar bills to American needy people and still be criticized for it. While I am not Chinese, I do accept this as typical-american-mentality with a Confucius-smile. Bless you all. :-))

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Richard, Sacramento, California — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:44:11 GMT

Having also taught English in China for a year in Sichuan, I would have to say that the author forgot to mention the "Little Empresses" that are also running amok. Selfishness isn't something that's isolated to a single gender. I would also like to point out that comparing our country (300+ years old) and our values to a country with origins that go back millenia isn't rational. This "West is Best" attitude is irritating at best. We should focus on cleaning our own house before we try cleaning others'.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Danny, Fremont Ca — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:46:29 GMT

I grew up as a caucasain in a heavely asain california community. From gradeschool through highschool, I was never in a class that was less than 70% asain. While i learned a great deal about many cultures, I could never get over how rude some kids and adults could be. I believe that T. Adams is on to something. The parents often have a self-centered attitude that the kids just pick up. i would watch parents drive half a mile down a bike lane on a jam packed street, not because of the asain driving stereotype, but because they were so concerned with getting their child to school on time that they ignored common courtesy and others safety.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Botan Styles — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:54:16 GMT

Our planet is in peril that's all anyone should be considering,manner's don't exist truthfully.When people get angry,scared,jealous,it all go's to the dog's.Kid's are kid's and manner's are rule's,kid's don't like rule's.Most children will take heed to good behaviour characteristic's the other's may never will, it's just that simple.Teach about real life and stay away from too many game's,there isn't enough time to play game's ~ Our Planet Is In Peril.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Phil, Rogue River, Oregon — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:56:37 GMT

How did your daughter manage to come up with the prize? Did she "fight fair," or did they "give it to her," or was she an aggressor? How do the chinese parents react to both foreigner children and parents?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Ian Weymouth Mass — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 18:59:36 GMT

Having spent much of my childhood in Hong Kong back in the 60', yup I'm as old as that LoL and having many friends from both the poor and the well off side of life. I am partly sad to hear this news and yet, I know that the nation that pays great attention to detail, will take great pains to cure the problem.
They can and will look at their own past history for examples and of course, the past and present of almost every country on the planet for inspiration.
Once you get to know their ways a little, You will find Chinese people pride them selves on 'their' social conduct and do have very high standards for manners. There is probably no one more upset by the current trend than the people of China.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Alberto Pena — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:02:45 GMT

Answer to why are we trying to help the economy of China insted of ours? It's because we have the same hunger to buy low priced items as we have for oil.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Robert ny,ny — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:04:29 GMT

Your comments hold true not only to the Chinese but to other generations here in this country as well as others around the world .To single out China and her people does not seem fair .Have you ever heard of the "ugly American "for example .Please note at one point in Chinese histoty not to long ago everything was to be done for the government .Now the swing is toward the child .Should not wepraise this .

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Rick M, Miami, Fl — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:08:53 GMT

The fact that many parents now a days equate making their children's lives better by making them comfortable and avoiding certain hardships contributes to this situation. we have to make a concious effort to teach our children the value of enduring uncomfortable situations so that may be more appreciative and therefore may become thankful and humble human beings with respect for others.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

John, Longmont Colorado — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:12:09 GMT

Maybe there needs to be a new way of organizing schools in China, order to emphasize teamwork and closer peer relations in order to substitute for sibling interactions. Or perhaps cousins should be raised (to an extent) jointly in only-child cultures.

The USA is not a single-child culture but might still benefit from more teamwork nthe classroom, because American kids can be narcissitic and bratty too.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Barbara Kosmider, Orono, MN — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:12:50 GMT

China has a long history and obviosly some parents see the neccesity to draw from the values so much present in the past. Dealing with spoiled children (even if parents DID LET that spolin happen) is a constructive way to solve the problem. The American society could learn a bit from the Chinese in that department. But most parents here just let their kids do whatever the kids want... and if there is a misbehavior, most parent blame everybody else, but themselves. And they want everybody else to "do something"... school teachers, counselors, even a little bit of Prozac for a kid is considered a helpful approach! It all got to the ridiculous point of parents who have kids, but who don't feel responsible for them at all. Too bad.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

MrLurchMS — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:13:31 GMT

you know what's sad? is that China is now poised to become what America once was....you said "there is a corresponding move to counter all the successes with the infusion of morality, manners and meaning in this atheist state" WOW!!!! MORALITY, MANNERS, and MEANING!!!! Those are HUGE words that most people here in the US have just completely forgotten about. Either that or they really don't care anymore, because they have no morality, manners, or meaning in their lives. This is where Christianity helped fill that void in the American's lives pre WW2, and it's the same thing thats filling the Buddhist's lives there in China....a sense of belonging, love, pride, etc...what happened to ours? I remember growning up and hearing all the time that this was the greatest country. now I'm seriuosly thinking of moving out of here by the time Im 50....if I last that long

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Roslyn, Houston, TX — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:14:21 GMT

This is not limited to China, nor is it limited to one child families. You don't have to go far in the U.S. to see a child who has more at the age of 5 than most of us had the whole time we were growing up. Many children have their own TV, computer or computer-type games, all the childhood movies on DVD, a DVD player to carry with them, and much more. They have so many toys that many of them are hardly ever touched. And every birthday, holiday, and Christmas they get more. They have more clothes than they can wear out before they outgrow, and many families do not even consider hand me downs. They have more shoes than I do, and they are name brands that cost more than mine. They feel deprived if they have to wait for something, not to mention work for it. Then people act surprised when the child grows up and doesn't understand the value of hard work.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Bohdan J. Szejner, Rome, Italy — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:17:18 GMT

America should stop listening to people who have vested interests in China, about China! America must regain her own common sense, before discussing other nations! America's common sense was lost when the precious market and technological know-how was "shared" with a people five times larger in population and in cheap labor! This giving away of the blood-sweat-and tears' acquired national strength is now resulting in the obliteration of the dollar and a permanent loss of our Nation's ability to compete, an ability that will probably never be regained in history! China is becoming the only World Market Empire, and the rest of the world "China's Only Customer" - a subservient and losing position indeed! We owe this tragic selling out of our Nation to those Corporations and their dependents now living in China! Come on, People! Why should we listen to their babbling about the "Little Emperors"?!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

SHARON WALKER FOLOM, CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:20:32 GMT

DEAR FRIENDS:
PLEASE BE KINDER!!!! LIFE IS WHAT AND WHERE YOU ARE AT. GUILT IS NOT A TEACHER BUT A WEAPON. IT IS HARD TO TEACH THE RULES THAT GOOD CIVILIZATIONS HAVE SHARED FROM LONG AGO IN JEWISH, ARAB AND CHRISTIAN ALL WITHOUT GOD.

CHINA SPEAKS OF THEIR TEACHINGS AND WANTING THEIR CHILDREN TO RESPECT AND HAVE PATIENCE AND KNOW REWARD IS MORE THAN A PRIZE. OTHERS HAVE SPOKE OF THRASHING AS AN ANSWER BEATING IT INTO THE LITTLE ONES.
EACH WILL GO OUT ON THEIR OWN IN TIME, AND EACH MUST MEET THE CHALLENGES OF FEARS AND OF WORLD EVENTS.
IT IS NOT CODDLING TO SHOW THE WAY NOR TO CARE.
I AM A CHILD OF A LARGE NUMBERED FAMILY. IN MY LIFETIME THREAT OF WAR AND WAR HAS SHOWN IT'S FACE. DARK SATTELITES AND DARK SPOTS, HURRICANES, MANS SEEDING RAIN AND THE THREAT OF CLEAN AIR ARE REAL. THESE FEARS ARE ALSO IN EVERY OTHER NATIONS CHILDREN EACH MAY EXPERIENCE IT OR SEE IT'S FACE IN THIER LIFE TIME. LIFE IS DIFFICULT EVEN FOR THE WEALTHIEST AND THE POOREST AND THE BLIND. IT IS THROUGH GOD AND HIS TEACHINGS THAT THE LIGHT BECOMES STRONGER FOR EACH AND EVERY CHILD.

IN AMERICA WE HAVE CANDIDATES THAT ARE LAYING SUCH CLAIM TO THEIR RELIGIOUS CLAIMS. YET THEIR ACTS ARE LESS THAN ADMIRABLE NOR THE STRONGEST FOR THE POSITION THEY ARE RUNNING. THEIR PRACTICE OF A RELIGION IS THE ONLY REASON WE WOULD VOTE FOR THEN NOR ALWAYS THE STRONGEST. LEADERSHIP IS A MAN WITH FAITH BUT ALSO ONE WITH EXPERIENCE AND WISEDOM TO RECOGNISE THAT GOOD DECISIONS FOR A NATION IMPACT OTHER NATIONS AND PEOPLE INCLUDING CHILDREN.
CHINA PUTS TO DEATH CHILDREN BECAUSE OF SEX AND THRASHES THOSE FOR THE SAKE OF A POLITICAL STATEMENT.
IN THE NEST THE BIRD THAT HAS AN EGG INSIDE, OR A SHOT TAKEN THAT LANDS INTO A DOE A FAWN, OR AN INNOCENT CHILD OR THE UNBORN CHILD.
MOCKERY AND NAMING AMERICAN CITIZENS AND SHOOTING AT THEM IS ALSO A FORM OF HATE CRIMES AND PSYCHOLOGICALLY DAMAGING.
KINDESS AND RESPECT ARE TAUGHT BY PARENTS AND SOCIETY. THE JEWISH NATION AND ARAB NATIONS AS OTHERS ARE AWARE OF THIS. TERRORISTS ARE NOT.
DAMAGING A CHILD BY GUILT AND BY FEAR AND BY HITTING LAST A LONG TIME. HITTING COMES IN MANY WAYS. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CITIZENS AND CHILDREN ON THE STREETS.
GOD HELP US AMEN.
BRING YOUR CHILDREN UNTO THE LORD.
BAPTISE, HOLY COMMUNION, CONFIRMATION.
ALL FAITHS BRING YOUR CHILDREN UNTO THE LORD.
AMEN.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

joe knapp — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:39:45 GMT

morals? I must be abnormal, my kids are required to have morals and ethics, but then everyone see's me as a meany. How about as a parent that doesn't want to have to visit them in prison becuase they have been taught the world OWES them something. Leadership, morals, ethics, honor, all start at home as well as earning yourway, but that has been lost along the way in this only me society that has evolved.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mike, Pennsylvania — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:41:12 GMT

Very interesting article. However, along w/ prosperity comes responsibility. The two MUST go hand in hand in order to stave off many of the types of problems we are seeing in China, US and other parts of the world as well. A sence of entitlement is not a genetic response. It's learned and can typically be traced back to parents who are overly permissive and afraid to say "no" for fear of disappointing their children. If we continue striving for wealth and prosperity without teaching our children the value of strong, Godly morals and hard work, we should not be suprised if/when the results turn tragic.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mari, Cadillac MI — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:41:40 GMT

One can find good and bad in every single thing - the point is - there is an attempt being made for the children! China will get it!!!

and just so other posters are aware there are a lot of great gen Xer's and Yer's TAKE A CLOSER LOOK

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Joe, New York, New York — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:47:29 GMT

This is not a problem at all. It is just one aspect of "Wealth Side Effect." However, it is a national wealth to build future generation where the majority (someday) will value manners. Comparatively, most kids in the West do not have to be rich to lack manners.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

LibraryGeek — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:52:33 GMT

"The children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for
authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place
of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their
households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They
contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties
at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannize their teachers.

ATTRIBUTION: Attributed to SOCRATES by Plato, according to William L.
Patty and Louise S. Johnson, Personality and Adjustment, p. 277
(1953)."

Some things never change.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

B. Sizemore Tampa Fl. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:56:02 GMT

Right-on my commie brothers. Long live the party, thanks be to God.
My 8o something Mom just came back from a week long vacation in PRC. She told me if she was 40 yrs. younger she would move to Shanghi.

Up the Workers, Down with the corporations. God bless America!!!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Danny, Woodbridge, Va. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 19:57:08 GMT

It seems to me that America has no right to comment about other people's children. We have become a greedy selfish and vain society who think we are better than everyone else in the world. No wonder peopl around th world have issues with us.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Danny, Woodbridge, Va. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:00:09 GMT

We have no right commenting on children from other countries. We have become a vain, selfish and greedy society. No wonder other countries have issues with us.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

T Gregg, warsaw, mo — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:04:28 GMT

Parents the world over try to give their children the best in every way possible. Unfortunately, many mistake giving toys for playing, cds for singing, and television for reading together. My three year says that love is craft time - when someone sits down with him, and creates.
What is really disturbing is how overly indulged children might behave as adults. A country almost entirely populated by the same is a country to be feared. When you feel entitled to put yourself first, you can easily justify immoral, or even criminal activities. Substance abuse, sexual assaults, slavery - these are things that some people find excusable, provided they are on the side with the power.
It's not a question of teaching children manners, it's how to encourage thoughtfulness and generousity, and this absolutely begins in the home.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jef with one F — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:13:38 GMT

Don't comment on the pushing and shoving habit - that came from the communist government!!! Back when food was being rationed in China, you had to push and shove to get it - or else you'd go home and eat your ration tickets. It happened only a measly 35-40 years ago so there are 3 generations of people who had to do this and don't think there are anything wrong. Spoiled kids are more of a cultural deal - you still have 35 years old in that country who give their pay checks to ther parents....... just like Itallian men that live with thier moms..... intoxicatingly funny and sad....

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Henry A. Eckstein, Vancouver, Canada — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:32:28 GMT

This reader raises a very interesting point....

====
RE: With whom shall The Little Emperors marry?

There doesn't seem to be a plethora of Chinese females
for them to choose from, and surely, no Western woman
will put up with them.

====

If I remember, there is already a large contingent of
young Chinese men between ages of 18 to 30 who number
almost 110 million who currently have NO HOPE AT ALL
of EVER finding a girlfriend/wife simply because of
the demographic trends in rural areas.

And there is currently a rising wave of criminal
trafficking in young girls from surrounding Southeast
Asian countries who are "Sold" by their dirt poor
parents to be "wedded off" to the slightly wealthier
Eastern Chinese which is an alarm bell that should be
ringing very loudly in the Chinese leadership's ears.

Add the enourmous social strains caused by the
rural/urban divide where there is a HUGE gap between
Coastal Chinese City Dwellers who have almost
comparable living standards to anyone living in
San Francisco, Seattle or Vancouver versus the
backwaters of rural eastern China where
people are very poor compared our standards, but
still wealthy enough to purchase their brides from
the even poorer neighbouring countries.

This rising market of sexual slavery of non-Chinese
women is but one grave symptom of what will happen
if the divide between the number of men to women
grows too disparate. 110 Million YOUNG Sexually and
Emotionally Frustrated men has only one end...
WAR AND REVOLUTION!

I can tell you what will happen and it won't
be pretty and although the Chinese leadership
DO in fact realize this growing demographic timebomb,
I find it unlikely that they will be able to deal with
a growing army of 110 million men who won't
take NO for an answer!

Couple "Little Emperor Syndrome" and not enough
women, and you get political dynamite that WILL HAVE
far reaching repercussions not only in China but
on the United States, Canada, Europe and other
Western Countries who depend so much on
China's current political stability for trade
and investment!

Like they say...We Live in Interesting Times!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Martha, Fremont CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:32:50 GMT

As Amercan, upper middle class parents of an only child by choice, we have always provided our daughter with the boundaries, limits, and discipline she needs. We make sure she always gets the things that she needs, but not necessarily the things that she wants. She gets some things that she wants, but certainly not all, and from an early age we began teacher her about charity and helping those less fortunate than her. She is an only child, but she is not coddled, nor is she overcompensated (because we never wanted a second child, thus we have no guilt about her lack of a sibling). She is just as well-adjusted, generous, kind, social, and eager to share as the kid across the street from us who has three siblings. The issue here is the parenting and parenting style, or lack thereof.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Deborah Columbus OH — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:33:33 GMT

Perhaps the me-ism of the male children observed has less to do with China's one-child syndrome and more to do with the attitude of supremacy of the male in Asian society. First-born sons traditionally inherit everything and are given the most of the family's resources for education, etc. They feel entitled as a result (my husband is Asian) But,traditionally the eldest male also inherits the responsibility of caring for the elderly relatives, so the funneling of largesse, etc., sort of evens out in the long run. My husband is from Japan, where the "little samurai" (i.e., feudal lord) syndrome is not limited to families with only one child. Despite advances for women, males still receive the lion's share. While living there I often saw little boys on the subway hit and slap their mothers and no one was shocked.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Pamela, Wisconsin — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:41:08 GMT

Such a wide variety of perspectives from a fairly straight forward article! Humans responding...wiola' communication. Different perspectives...viola' experience. Strong opinions...viola' passion! I encourage all of you to use your comminication, experience and passion to make the changes you think are necessary. Being an example to others, old or young, is one of the most important things that you will do in your lifetime.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Amy L., Pa — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:46:07 GMT

While many parents of today try to give their children what they never had, this, in most cases, never helps the child out in any way or form.
Many have complained about this but yet each year as children pass through the school system I see more and more children rude and unrespectful of others, much less their elders. The U.S., much less the world, would be a better place if everyone taught their children manners and disciplined them the way our grandparents used to discipline our parents.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Andrew A., Los Angeles, California — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:49:35 GMT

American children are spoiled rotten but for no reason at all and I believe also inadvertently so. It is a very bad mix of extreme ignorance and a grand sense of entitlement. It's worse than the so-called 't.v. babies', they are the new 'idiocracy' that are going to inherit a lot of misery and debt in this country, maybe we should all move sometime soon America doesn't have a very bright future. I mean who wants to live in and off the corpse of an ex-superpower?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Dave Handa — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:50:45 GMT

How did the Chinese react to your daughter winning the ball? China is an overagreesive society that has a history of infiltrated countries and expolited them, shunning their distribution for their own like the Borg. They do not integrate with other cultures as evidenced by their choice to remain isolated in "China Town" habitats.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Joe, HBG, PA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:52:59 GMT

I think that some of the previous posters here have missed some very important points in this story. You have a nation, China, that continues to grow, both in population and influence. Despite state sponsored rules against growth, it continues. Despite state sponsored controls on many aspects of life in China, the Chinese have a growing sphere of influence. A lot of the posting has been compliants about Americans' between the age of 15 and 40 now. But, I am sure those same compliants were shared by the "Greatest Generation" about the "Boomers" who had regular TV and Birth Control instead of portable DVDs and Condoms. The bigger issue is what is the control over these young minds in China? What are they aspiring toward? I am not yelling "Yellow Peril". Rather, there is something to be said for watching and knowing what the impact of one of the more populist countries in the world will have. And most business people are very interested in the impact that China will have economically. And looking at movies, the Chinese are already effecting our culture. Will that continue? Will someone in the U.S. legislature mandate control on the number of birth's someday? It is not too far fetched. So many people have talked about our "standing" in the world. And that begs the question of how will other cultures influence America in the future?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

MD B — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:56:56 GMT

You know,
personally- I would be afraid to when out in public, teach my child anything, in China- least it be deemed to suddenly offend the self-esteem of some narcissistic leader of the country! Then they too, may be subject to brutal, horrific, torture, and violations of human rights; such as the thousands who used Falun Gong.
A practice not unlike, some of China's culture that historically, had embraced the concept of the "Oneness of Heaven and Man." The way to achieve the Oneness, or one's true self - in a peaceful, calm, mannerly, Spiritual be kind to others,kind of meditating. Similar to the health benefits of Tai Chi or; martial arts exercises, and perhaps used to relax, practice self-control, or to heal etc.
Until just recently when the Chinese Communist Party's around, I believe 1999 felt intimidated by the power of thousands of spiritually, calm, moral people. They claimed that any leniency would amount to the defeat of their power control-Marxism. So that started unimaginable torture of thousands who followed its practice! Still it goes on today!!!!
In my view, that's some "Little Emperor" living in a Country where- when intimidated by calm morals, it can brutally, knock you down on a whim. Go ahead-check that one out for yourself!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jean, New York, NY — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:02:23 GMT

I was in China in 2000, 2005 and 2006 for six weeks each time and what I saw was an economy that grew at an astronomical pace with each visit (more of everything each time with matching costs). Along with more, came the entitlement. In the 2005 visit, my 19 yr. old son, my mother, and I commented on the bratty kids, along with the rude adults. But our visit brought a better understanding of the new immigrants to this country. In the overly crowded big city's in China, people almost HAVE to be rude to do something as simple as going to a public toilet. I can't begin to count to number of times I've had incidents with people. Same with crossing the streets, purchasing items...even the sales people are up right behind you every step of the way. Yes, we thought all this rude, but it built our tolerance for new migrants here. I've noticed that the Chinese that have assimilated into our country become a little less rude. This all said, it's not only the kids...it's a society that is rising too fast with people who had very little suddenly getting too much and acting out as humans do. p.s. We are Americans of Chinese descent (yes, we actually look Chinese).

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Patricia, Idaho Falls, ID — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:16:03 GMT

Blah blah blah blah blablahblah..., here's the thing; China is all the way over ----------->there. I care little about their "little emperor (or empress)syndrome". The best that I can hope for is some decent service from some snot nosed American teenager when I am trying to order food for my family at a restaurant on any given night of the week. American children, mine included, are spoiled and we should tread carefully lest we cut our feet wide open walking on all that broken glass lying around. I am 43 years old and I was entirely too spoiled for my generation but I respected my elders, tried not to talk out of turn, and always addressed anyone older than me as "Sir" or "Ma'am", I still do. I am trying hard to teach my own personal brat that good manners,carrying oneself with dignity and exhibiting even the most minute trace of couth are admirable traits to possess in this depreciating society in which we reside. It is hard though, with all the kids running around with their pants falling off because it looks ever so cool to other people that you obviously don't know what size pants you wear, and weird haircuts and piercings of all types. Now I understand that this is a free country and anyone can do what they like, but I long for the 50's,(minus the racism, of course!), when kids looked normal, and you could understand the music. Oh, maybe someone could have talked to Brittany Spears Mom about birth control back then too...

Leave China to figure out it's young ones. Lets figure out our screwed up kids. 'Nuff said?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

designerdiana — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:25:11 GMT

While this problem is increasingly common in the United States, it is also regionally different. Two years ago we moved from Los Angeles, CA, to a suburban/rural area of South Carolina, and I can tell you that the children and teens in the South are in general far more moral, better behaved, and respectful of their elders than those in Los Angeles. And it has nothing to do with income or class.

We adopted a daughter from China less than a year ago. As she grows and learns moral values, good manners, and what it means to be a respectful, contributing citizen, I praise God that she will learn it in the South, and not in L.A.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Chris Parker Thailand — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:27:12 GMT

An article about morals that focuses on children, inside the country which has no morals...ironic. Why do americans have to go to china and help support all the bad things they do (and the good things they dont do). Shame on you for even being in China in the first place.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

D. W., Poway, CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:41:56 GMT

I, myself, have wonderful, polite, and sucessful children who are not spoiled, greedy, nor humorless. However, someone needs to talk to you about yours.....

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Al Whistle KS — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:43:31 GMT

China may now contain rude little emperors and empresses, but at least they are willing and taught how to work hard for what they need and want. They are being taught a sense of entitlement, that right or wrong, closely equates to America's fromer sense of preordained destiny. A belief that led to the conquoring and development of this nation. I have observed many individuals who feel they are too good to soil their hands with labor. That some job they have been offered is too far beneath them, and yet they have no other options. The attitude in America seems to be that the world "owes" them something. and that something better will "come along", not that it needs to be worked for. If America fails itself and her people in the future, I think it will be because, this was once a land of opportunity,(which requires work) but now it is a land of whiners. And as far as China is concerned... they have billions of people willing to do the work of creating industry and nation... like we Americans once did. Our countries are currently developing along very similar lines and we had better watch out that we don't underestimate the same strenghts that led to America developing into the world power that she is.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Elias S, Indio Ca — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:54:16 GMT

I have only one child and it was done by choice not chance, the reasons being that we want our child to receive all morals that she can. China has a plan to adjust to the changes as they come, I believe is a good way to go. Morals are indeed what helps not decay the neighborhood!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Shannon, Granbury, TX — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:15:28 GMT

I applaud the Chinese for making this a part of their schooling. I have only been teaching 4th graders for a few years but the one thing I have noticed is not only am I expected to teach Math and Science to them but I have to teach them morals as well. This is difficult to do with no reinforcement from home and the growing sense of entitlement children have. I have young children myself and I am amazed to see how entitled they think they are to everything. It makes me wonder where I have gone wrong. I am just beating a dead horse, I know, but it is very difficult as a parent and teacher to continue to fight against what our society has become and what it is doing to our children. Don't get me wrong, I love our freedoms but I honestly believe we can have to much freedom.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Bo, Los Angeles CA — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:21:02 GMT

I am 62 year old and grew up in Hong Kong for 19 years and were taught Christianity thru out the years and Confusionism. I think they are good and valuable for this world we are in. They may solve many of our problems now a day without having to enact some many laws that you literally breaking them all the time.
The author saw only a small portion of China and could not be representative of what China will be. China gross national product is very huge and must be beckoned with, but the population is even larger and so the per capita in come is still condered a poor county. So they will have a lot of time before they can catch up with us. Please feel good.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Lee, Woodbine, Md. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:35:56 GMT

I don't know of one problem in this article, or in any article in any paper on the globe, which would not be remedied by coming to Jesus Christ to ask Him to forgive our sins, and then we do it His way. I'm not talking about "religion, but a true RELATIONSHIP, in love with Him. If the whole world only came to Him, it would be Paradise. By the way, in His presence is fullness of joy, so it would be fun, too! He's a happy God.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Linda C. Indianapolis, Indiana — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:48:17 GMT

I agree with Danny from Va. When you allow your child
ren to think that it's ALL about them, you get another
generation of antisocials. We should maybe consider
China's ideas on this matter. After all, I think our
children could benifit from some lessons in humility,
manners and consideration.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Lloyd Johnson Lladysmith Wi. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:49:48 GMT

When I was a kid we all had chores to do. & I came from a poor family, but did not think of it as poor we had plenty to eat I always wanted a Bike but with 8 Bro. & 2 Sisters I never got one.If we did not mind we weould get a good hard spanking.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Ralph Patton, Hershey. Pa. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:07:35 GMT

Seems to me that the best way to teach these children manners and respect is to keep them as far away from religion as possible.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

WILLIE WINKER LOS ANGELES — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:09:42 GMT

AMERICA HAS LOST ITS VALUES TO THE SECULAR PROGRISSIVES WHO THINK ARE KIDS CAN TAKE DRUGS AND HAVE UNPROTECTED SEX AT 12 YRS OLD ITS TIME TO BRING BACK SOME OF OUR MORALS AND START GETTING THESE CORRUPT POLITICIANS OUT OF OFFICE

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

P. Moore, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:15:03 GMT

So China has spoiled children... why should they be any different from the rest of the world?

People should really think about whether or not they want to have ANY children. Never mind that the world is over populated, good parenting skills are scarce these days.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Alejandro Vargas — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:15:43 GMT

Doug Prescient wrote:
Why are we trying to create so many business ties to China, a country with a terrible human rights track record? I could care less about their bratty children, let's start concentrating on strengthening our economy and not theirs.
My message:
Please, look at your own country, I live in the US and I cant believe there are still such... people in this country believing that the US is better than every other country. American children are more bratty and spoiled than most kids in almost every country. Even Canadians use more strict discipline to teach their children. Americans teach their children to be rich and better than others, not to love and care for one another. Compassion and disipline are long lost words in the american dictionary. Chineese may have some strict laws we may not understand, but then again, how can a 300 year old nation understand one that's been there for millenia? Please, if you make any comments, try to be wise and analyse American's current situation on children that believe they are the center of attraction.
I don't want to go for long but I could write an article about this. My wife is a teacher, parents send their kids to school and every time one of them misbehaves the teacher reprehends them, and if she tries to contact their parents, 70% of the time, the teacher is wrong and she doesn't understand their kid because their kid never behaves bad "according to his/her parents, and the little brat gets away with his/her misdeeds since his/her parents protect him/her even if he does misbehaves. Why? Because parents spoil them.
Parents buy mature rated games to children even though the game advisor tells them there is crude scenes of gore and assasination in the game "example: manhunt" because their kid only like adult game, yeah thats ok, good parenting america...
With that said, please, think ahead before saying other countries are worse than us.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Aaron Allen Lafayette INdiana. — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:32:41 GMT

China MUST review and confront the lopsided population
of young males to females or its society will be harm-
ed permanently: If observers are concerned with the
selfish, greedy attitude of the 'Emperors' now, wait
until they start driving fast cars, drinking booze, and competing over the few empresses who haven't been
spirited away by adopting parent, many from the US...
If China doesn't want to share opportunities with the
young girls, they might send them to schools in the
Americas, Australia, and Europe where they will
'catch up' with the emperors...Think of the potential
of a beautiful young returnee to China who has a good
education, career, taste, style, and orthodontia! She
will have it made if she properly prepares for this
'debut'...

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Kathy Elless — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 23:55:27 GMT

Interesting ... my daughter and I traveled to India 2 years ago and had to fly in and out of several international airports. The rudeness, pushing, shoving, outrageous manners of almost every person of Asian or Indian heritage was shocking to me. The only people that were kind and courteous were the very rare Americans, Canadians or English that we encountered. Maybe it is not so much a "child Emperor" problem as it is cultural?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

VICKIE H, SLC, UTAH — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:32:40 GMT

PEOPLE.... IT IS NOT JUST OUR CHILDREN OF THE WORLD THAT HAVE BECOME THIS WAY. WHATEVER HAPPEN TO THE GOLDEN RULE? I BELIEVE IT IS LOST FOREVER.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Robert — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:31:39 GMT

Bad manners are nothing new. In the last several years, selfishness has become rampant here in America too. As for the Asians, the adults are so rude in public. They are always cutting my wife off as she walks slowly 'cause she has bad knees and uses a cane. I work in an industry where tipping is expected but the Asians expect extra service but then DO NOT tip. Just like 'charity begins at home' so does learning manners. But how can children learn manners if the adults do not use them on a daily basis?

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Laowai, Beijing, China — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 01:48:14 GMT

Wasn't it Confucius who coined the phrase "it is easy to fool a foreigner??
And this one is mine " never trust anything that comes from china"

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Pat H, Vallejo, CA — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:03:07 GMT

Maybe we should adopt the one child policy. There would be a lot less money going out for welfare and food stamp programs. Too many single parent households. I'm an only child, not selfish or bratty, considerate of others. Even households with several kids, are spoiled with the me me me attitude.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mark Mullikin, Middleton WI — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:10:22 GMT

Maybe someone should teach the leaders of China and their military and businesses some Morals and responsibility. I'm sorry that is not part of the communist party teachings. I guess that is why they steal military, business, technology and any other types of secrets they can. Then they send students and citizens here or to other countries to do it. Then again we do the same thing as does just about every other government in the world. By the way don't tell me that "religion" teaches morals or values either! Religious fanatics like the ones running our country, invade countries, start wars, lie, pad their pockets and destroy the evidence. We have our own Little emperor" to deal with.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

tb, austin, tx — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:29:37 GMT

Get a grip, people. R-e-s-p-e-c-t.
Children ARE people and you SHOULD be your child's friend. If you don't teach them respect, and SHOW them respect, you're not doing your job as a parent.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Yidele Shwantzenwald, Washington, D.C. — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:43:59 GMT

The Red chickens are coming home to roost. Teaching kids ethics is yet another example of faux-communist retrenchment, after all the soviet man was supposed to be inherently moral, at least in the sense that the communists understand morality, which is to say opportunistic & devoid of any fixed moral principle other than the good of the revolution.... the very fact that a supposedly communist state finds it necessary to teach pre-communist ethical theory speaks volumes about the utter failure of communism, no matter what the PRC chooses to call itself.

Oh, and _we_ are entitled to criticize anyone we choose to criticize, no matter what the guilt stricken, self hating americans amongst us may declare. Despite moans to the contrary, the US is neither as class ridden, greedy nor as vain as some other societies we could mention, China, Russia, Gulf states being some of the front runners here.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Danny, San Diego,CA — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:46:15 GMT

In a world where China will become a world player having influence as never seen before I applaud all children rearing opportunities’ teaching morals and fair play. I only wish we could teach the same value oriented ideas to our music obsessed MTV minded children in the United States.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Kelly 1977 — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 02:50:11 GMT

We definitely need to look at our own country and it's bratty children. OOOH if I see one more three year old hit their parent I'm gonna scream. I actually saw a parent carrying a nine year old around like he was a 2 year old. Crazy..
Parents allow their kids to act out, I believe, to control the situation around them. Just sit back and watch sometime. I have one child and I promise you he respects his elders and others. He is and was made to obey and yet he knows he is so incredibly loved.
By the By has anyone seen the show "Super Nanny"
tsk tsk..

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

NE2TX2AZ — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:04:48 GMT

Mr. Espinoza... AMEN!!!!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Larry N. Flake II Crossville, TN — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:10:50 GMT

Everyone here seems to blame the loss of morals on the x and y gens..but forget the generations befoire them who shaped their outlook on life..the so called greatest generation, the baby boomers and etc...the x and y gens did not create the world we live in now or it's problems..the generations before did and now find it simple to blame the x and y'ers...the difference here is the Chinese see where it is their fault and attempting to do something about it instead of following the true great american past-time of passing the buck and blame..i believe it's about time those generations who created the situation as it stands today take the credit for their work instead of blaming the generations their actions created.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jacob Lee, China — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:13:43 GMT

There are also many children in China who believe in Jesus, and hopefully they will choose to continue to follow Him in humility as they grow up. WE need Sunday School teachers!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Poo Poo Platter — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:19:09 GMT

Didn't everybody already know that the Chinese (young and old) are the rudest people on the planet ???

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Carla, Fargo, ND — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:26:36 GMT

blame the parents, not the children, for bad manners. pompous parents make for rude kids.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Siu-Wai, Boston, MA — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:40:05 GMT

When my son was born, a friend gave us a "Family Circus" cartoon. One frame shows the kids surrounded by toys but lookibg bored. The next frame shows the parents and kids picnicing and flying a kite on a hill. The caption reads "You can give your kids time...or things. Time is better!"
That was our guiding principle in raising our kids. I think it's a good one wherever you are.

As a female orphan from China, I worry about the generation of Little Emperors. My former homeland is being extremely shortsighted in the way it devalues girls, but we're looking at thousands of years of tradition. Maybe they'll import brides from other countries, the opposite of the Chinese "picture brides" of 100 years ago. Talk about irony!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Bubba, Tianjin, China — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:42:09 GMT

I've spent over 2 years in Tianjin (one of the largest cities in China, and very close to Beijing), and the "Little Emperor/Empress" syndrome is noticeable every time you are in a vehicle, on a bicycle, waiting in a queue, eating in a restaurant, going to the supermarket, or walking down the street. In short, just about everywhere except within the home. It's a total lack of awareness and concern for anyone else. A car or a bicycle will cut others off and cause a huge traffic jam just to gain an extra few seconds. A person on a bicycle will literally stop in the middle of a bike lane (if they stop at all) to talk on a cell phone, not even considering how much it inconveniences others. The general attitude of drivers is "biggest vehicle has the right-of-way, get away with what you can." Drivers (and bicycle riders) rarely if ever look behind themselves or to the sides. Rear-view and side-mirrors are almost never used. People frequently spit on the ground outside, or on the floor in restaurants. Very few people will stand or wait in line or queue, it's basically first-shove, first serve.... There are many other examples. And these aren't children, these are adults I am talking about, in normal, everyday situations. This is not simply an attitude adopted by the affluent and well-to-do (although one could make the argument that anyone living in a big city is, almost by definition, of at least modest means-compared to someone living in the country). This is *everyone* who rides a bike or drives a car or waits in line or walks down the street or eats in a restaurant or buys food in the streets. It is a pervasive cultural attitude, from the oldest to the youngest. Plaigarism is common. Cheating on tests is common. I've heard many stories from other expats about being cheated in business.

As I mentioned, it's pervasive throughout the entire culture, from young to old. That's one of the biggest differences I see when I come to China. Sure, in just about any country, we see the "spoiled brats" who came from single-family homes and were coddled, or came from a wealthy family and got whatever they wanted. But it's *different* here. Even the children who have siblings (there are more than you might think) and those who don't have a lot of money act similarly. It seems to me that the amount of respect and manners you are given extend only as far as the personal relationship between the two of you. Business partners, friends, guests, patrons, passengers, lovers, classmates, teacher/student, drinking buddy. Each kind of relationship or interaction has a very different kind of respect or level of politeness. But without one of these kinds of interpersonal relationships, you are just another person to step in front of, to cut off, and (in my cultural eyes) to be rude to.

And that's just it. It's a different *culture*. Not many people get what that means. Culture shock. Normal actions by normal people within another culture being seen as rude, disgusting, abhorrent, strange. How many times have we heard this or seen it? Sure, maybe some of the international schools are starting to teach morals (good luck), but as one writer observed, that kind of teaching really belongs in the home. But will it happen? I don't know.

I enjoyed Mr. Mullens' article, but I think he's simply touched on the tip of the iceberg. I hope to hear more in the future.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mike Lee, Boston Mass — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:47:44 GMT

"The children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their
households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannize their teachers."

=Socrates=

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Manuel Moreno, Newton Falls, OH — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 04:59:49 GMT

Religion ie 'Christianity' will not help the moral values in China. Look at the 'Christian' examples they have to learn from. The self proclaimed Christian in the White House is a mass murderer. Blowing up women and children and devastating families while he and his conspirators take money from the underpaid worker to fill their own pockets. Religion is just another tool for grabbing power and money. You want well mannered children, leave out any and all religions and just teach the 'Golden Rule'.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Charles Turner, San Antonio, TX — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 05:27:44 GMT

If we only just prayed more that would help us.
There is another problem, however, and that can be seen in the Baylor University survey conducted not long ago that said only 90% of Americans identify themselves as Christians. What is wrong with that other 10%?
I don't know about the rest of you, but it is clear to me that those are the ones who are doing most (certainly not all, I'll readily admit) of the sinning, not teaching their children any moral values (when they're not simply copulating out of wedlock for their own selfish desires), and are undermining this country.
And people wonder why China has so many problems. Guess what percentage of China's population identifies itself as Christian?! Not very much, unfortunately. Someone above suggested sending some Christian missionaries there. But where will they come from??? The USA certainly doesn't have any Christians to spare, we are engaged in intense spiritual warfare here on the homefront with that 10% that refuses to acknowledges its wickedness and come over to the light of Christ.
Like I said before, people. We need to pray more; the forces of Satan are on the march.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Yuan Lee — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 05:37:54 GMT

These "little emperors" have no chance of becoming a real "little emperors" when they grow up unless they join the all mighty party. There are currently some 80 million of the real big "little emperors" in China. What a great liberated society to be in! Every citizens of the PRC have a good shot of becoming a real big "little emperor". There was only one such position just a little than 100 years ago.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Joseph Green Simcoe Ontario Canada — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 06:26:50 GMT

I have taught throughout China for three years.It is getting worse.Many teachers refuse to teach children because they are so naughty.Yes the family is to blame.Many times I have seen a family walk down the street and a kid point to something a say "I want"The parents instanly buy it.As well let's begin with Chinese Employers.Many treat their workers as if they were their own personal slaves.I respect the Chinese government.They are working hard to make China a better place.But of course,that must begin at home.I wish many countries in the west would try as hard as the Chinese government

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Jase, Shanghai, PR China — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 07:16:06 GMT

Of course no mention about the fact that Mao's attempt to irradicate 5,000 years of culture is the real reason behind the mass lack of moral and ethics in mainstream China today. While the little emperor syndrome is at least a generation old now and teaching Confucious is not going to solve anything other than serve as another propoganda model for the government to sell to NBC.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Gerald Beamer, Shanghai — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 08:01:05 GMT

The kids over here are coddled, spoiled and catered - to the point of chubby little 8 year olds being spoon feed and treated like they own the world. Will be interesting to see how this upbringing will affect them when they enter the real world as adults - won't be pleasent for them.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Melanie Seeley Canadian living in China — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 09:47:21 GMT

I have read all the messages pertaining to this article. It seems that most people who've commented have not lived in or visited China. I have lived here for more than 5 years. If you live here for any length of time, than you would know that China's one-child policy is quite reasonable. There are way too many people here in this country. I have lived in mostly small villages in the far north and have travelled to various cities and towns and farmland here. I have seen the very very poor and the very very rich. Shanghai and Hong Kong(especially) and Shenzhen to the south are not what China is. These are mostly rich cities. People here have more than one child because you can pay for more. Most of them have at least 2 because these people can afford them. Now, some provinces allow you to have 2 children, and some allow you to have 2 if you are a farmer. Yes, granted they want boys to carry on the name and to help on the farm as the girls don't do the farmwork here. Not like in the west. I know, I grew up on a farm!
There is quite a difference in boys' ratio to girls' yes. It's quite evident in the classrooms at all ages. In middle school is where I'm seeing it start. Yes it's true that most people will abort a child if they know it's a girl, but, most hospitals refuse to tell you the sex as to stop this from happening.
I teach my kids aged 2-6(kindergarten)to be polite, throw trash in the garbage instead of on the ground in front of them. They learn not to push and not to hit, they watch me do things outside of the school where I often meet them such as looking before crossing the road and not to bud in line. They are with parents that know I teach them this(yes they actually do learn this) and obey the rules. Even with parents. Parents are so pleased to learn that their kids know this stuff that they do it too. I've seen it. It only takes one kid to make a difference. That one kid will set an example for others.
As for the rest of the kids, if they speak english then they know about culture. Us teachers over here are not only teaching them english but getting them to understand our culture too. True it's only relationship, manners and environmental issues and not the little Emperor syndrome that they learn. But like others stated, it's not only affected here. It's a problem anywhere in the world. And telling them to have more than one child is not doing the country any bit of good. What with China becoming a richer and richer country in the short time I've lived here and seen many many changes to society, and western influence including the factories that overrun and useable farmland that is here getting smaller and smaller, it's time to take notice! China is going to be bigger than the USA, and sooner than you in the west realize. It's happening and faster than I can tell you about. But this will only be short lived. China falls below the minimum of 120 million hectares of farmland. People are leaving farms by the hordes to move to the cities to get a better job, be better educated because they know they know the race to be better than the other 1 billion is on strong!
As for the marriage problem, there is one yes. But with more and more people speaking english over here, it makes them more aware of the fact too. The men realize that the women are just gold diggers(and they can be as picky as they like), not like most of western women. I myself have been in a few relationships with chinese men. Sure there are alot of cultural and traditional differences but it's not that difficult to have a relationship with them. In fact I'm probably going to be marrying one of them. I am just one of quite a few foreign girls over here that are with chinese men. There is still the outnumbered foreign men with chinese girls by far, but it's happening and only will be, the more chinese men realize that they can't compete with the very rich chinese men that will get all the girls. These men realize too that foreign women aren't just after them for money and they can be with us because we want to be with them too!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

B. Cline, Albuquerque, N.M. — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 10:58:36 GMT

Great comment,T Gregg!It's not just the Chinese that are becoming un-civil, I see the same thing here every day.Kids,adults, adults acting (And looking) like kids. Everybody is spoiled these days. People take so much for granted coupled with a large sense of entitlement and with no moral scruples being fostered, it's getting pretty ugly out there. It almost seems to be a point of pride to see just how uncaring and rude you can be. I know I'm sick of it and so are all of you. At least I hope so. I take hope in the fact that at least we are taking note of the trend and don't like what we see,experience,etc. After all in a world where everyone seems to want more and more when soon there is going to be less and less to have owing to climate change and resource depletion, we are going to start to have to get along a lot better the smaller this world gets.I know people are starving for a return to some semblance of civility. It all starts at home. if you tolerate it in your household and don't impart manners and morals to your family and friends this is what happens. I know people mostly respond well to manners and courtesy and usually respond in kind. Lets all start with randome acts of courtesy,a kind word, patience. A little humility wouldn't hurt either. It's possible. I'll try if everyone else will.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

David Stansbury, Olympia, Wash — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 12:13:05 GMT

You think the Chinese have a problem..HA! You should see the "New Russians" and their wonderful offspring!!

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

John LaForce, Castries St.Lucia — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 12:18:42 GMT

It is a useful observation that “But the boys weren't amused. As my daughter fled with the prize in hand, one boy started yelling at the other and an angry push may have been involved” With the emerging properity and the increasing use of electronic playstations among boys, an older boy may kill the other, if the scene was repeated in playgrounds in many western countries

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Helene, Eastpoint, FL — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 14:44:58 GMT

The Little Emperors were taught by the Big Emperors (parents) who in turn were taught by the Bigger Emperors (grandparents). No one remembers the Biggest Emperors (great-grandparents) who first installed values in their kids which in turn was rejected by the Bigger Emperors. I am one of the Bigger Emperors and my kids rejected the knowledge that I passed on to them. They became the gime genertion. My grandkids today (12) are the most horrible monsters I've ever met and a few I don't even want in the house.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Zach Lorang, Webster, Minn. — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 16:18:57 GMT

I don't think teaching morality has to overlaid with a superstitious, religious dogma. I don't think faith necessarily brings morality, and I don't think religion is at all a necessary component of a good person. Instead, the Chinese should hold up heroes of the past as examples, such as Lin Zexu and Zeng Guofan, as examples of morality and patriotism.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Mark D, Cocoa Beach, FL — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 07:31:06 GMT

These comments are amazing. The older generation has been whining about the next generation since the time of Plato. Plato was completely convinced the generation after him was going to be the downfall of Greece. Every generation lives better because of the generation before, and the older generation resents the young because of that. I feel bad for you people. I've gone back to college recently and I think the younger generation is far brighter than my graduating class was.They may not be polite, but they're far less racist and violent(funny the generation that grew up on violent video games is the least violent generation ever) By the way, there are MILLIONS of poor American kids who don't get ANYTHING they want or need. Now back to the Chinese kids...

As one poster wrote, the problem will come when all those "single-child law" male children in China need mates, then all those girls they threw away to foreign adoption will be sorely missed. There will be a massive exodus from china as these boys leave to seek a mate.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

Uncle Sam — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 10:10:03 GMT

Americans have a guilt complex. Other countries comment on each other all the time, China comments on America, Japan etc. So it is fine for Americans to comment on other countries.

China’s ‘Little Emperors’ learn morals, manners

douglas, portland, or — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 07:47:54 GMT

Sharon darling, take the rose colored glasses off. Everyone has a soul, everyone cares. We just choose to show it in different ways. stop judging otheres with your religious retoric. Now back to China. China is obviously doing what americans have done for years. throw money at the problem: hire professionals to do what the family used to do. it gives us all jobs. i personally am not complaining.