Mood turns ugly in Beijing

PS Las Vegas NV — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 18:51:59 GMT

They want the international money coming into China, they want the work for their people, they want the technology, they want to look like a free people, but it is still alot like the old China.
And American bussiness give it to them and take jobs away from americans so they can put more money in their pockets. Shame on greedy American Bussinesses. Anything for a buck

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Randall Pouwels, Conway, Arkansas — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:10:55 GMT

Maybe the only way those Chinese "patriots" might "get it" is if (a) people started giving serious thought to boycotting the Beijing Olympics, and (b) in the future the Olympic Committee think twice about scheduling the Games in places with totalitarian regimes.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

THOMAS DECKER VERSAILLES MISSOURI — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:12:36 GMT

CHINA IS STILL IN THE DARK AGES WHEN IT COMES TO FREEDOM OF SPEACH.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Rob, Puget Sound, WA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:21:32 GMT

The Chinese government very obviously fails to understand the implications of it's actions and instead of minimizing the issue makes it worse. We should have a good understanding of that since our own Bush administration seems to suffer from many of the same issues.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

jeff plymouth mn — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:21:39 GMT

It is apparent we have all forgotten China continues to be communist controlled country. What do we really expect . Their true colors do come out.....

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Bob Griswold, Walla Walla, Washington — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:25:52 GMT

Is any of this a surprise? Remember Tiananmen Square? Remember the rape of Tibet and the ongoing brutal occupation of that peaceful country? Just because greedy business people in Western countries make make money by dealing with China, doesn't change the reality that China is a brutal dictatorship that deserves the privilege of hosting the Olympics about as much as Myamar and North Korea would.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

michael louis, kalamazoo, mi — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:26:41 GMT

China,
Welcome to the real world!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

john doe — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:28:27 GMT

Nice job on the overdone nationalism, Chinese government.

Fortunately, "double-edged sword" translates into Mandarin.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tim, Portland, Oregon — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:28:34 GMT

Unbelievable. If China had a genuine open society there would be no debate. Do any diligent research on China's human rights record, especially Tibet, and you will understand that the emperor is naked people. This isn't about nationalism or patriotism and Tibetan acts of terrorism. It's about the largest most well-organized despotic, brutally tyrannical regime on planet earth. Why make nice about that. Call it what it is. It's not the Chinese people or culture that's under fire. Most thinking people on earth would readily agree that Chinese culture and history is one of the magical wonders of the earth. Let me be very clear; what we're talking about is the boot of totalitarian authority being pushed down on the neck of the people - that's us - you and me; and that's wrong, and should be resisted at all times and in every place.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Lhargis — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:31:59 GMT

Just more reason for boycotting the Olympics in China, I personally cant see how any atheletes would want to perform there, I would be afraid that they would be detained or arrested if they won over a Chinese in the games. Maybe this is over reating but then isnt that what China is doing already

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ron Houston, TX — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:32:08 GMT

If one wishes to stand on the center of the world stage, one must be prepared for both the good and the bad. To use another cliche, if you can't stand the heat, get away from the fire. China apparently wants to be a part of the world community without abiding by accepted world standards of openess and related scrutiny. One would think they would save their vengeance until the Olympics have concluded rather than prove some of the protestors right. Boycott anyone?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Weiyang, Berkeley, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:32:17 GMT

You treat China and the Chinese people as your enemy, you get what you asked for. This is such a simple human reaction that many so called 'human right' preachers are never able to admit. But who cares? America has probably more enemy in the world than any other coutry does. If this is what takes to be a superpower, then surely we will live with it.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom IL — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:33:03 GMT

Mark my word, these Chinese communist fanatics will yet start a nuclear World War 3, and if my guess is correct, sooner rather than later.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

E.Harrell — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:39:02 GMT

This is the true face of the Chinese government. I spent a month in China in 2004 and came home with a true appreciation of the Bill of Rights. They are an absolute totalitarian country. A massive boycott of the Olympics might get their attention. China is a menace.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Fred A in Denver — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:39:27 GMT

I've really heard just about enough on all this Chinese Olympic crap and there continued crackdown on Civil rights activism. I for 1 just one person say to hell with their olympics and all the coverage, I will not watch nor will I purchase any products from any of the olympic sponsors. If we are really in favor and support all peoples civil rights lets make a real stand here where the whole world can really see what the fight is all about. If AMERICA really supports civil rights for all people of this planet I urge all AMERICANS to BOYCOTT the Beiging Summer Olympic Games in any manner you choose. Either your for total and absolute Civil Rights or your not. There is no middle ground....

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Kris Allfrey, Houston, Tx — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:39:33 GMT

If government's would vote with their checkbook and not their mouths, China would be in a very bad position right now. Instead they are hosting the 2008 Olympics and getting more support than ever. I believe it is time for all the world to speak and change their buying habits to reflect their beliefs.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mike A — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:40:20 GMT

It is still 'Red China' to me. An oppressive, closed, Communist regime is in charge. Anyone or any organization dealing with them basically deserves whatever they get. I wouldn't watch 10 seconds of an Olympics from this country.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Kevin, New York, NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:40:25 GMT

"Patriotic zeal." Ha! That's the understatement of the week.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Alex, Philadelphia — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:41:11 GMT

Tit-for-tat. Its time we stopped buying Chinese products, as far as possible. Make a small token, try to at least buy one item a day from a source other than China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Benet Garcia, Seattle Wash — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:41:47 GMT

I will not pretend to support in any way the horrific manner in which the chinese government and some of its people are conducting themselves. And perhaps a reconsideration may need to happen for many participating in the games in China. But I also sense there is a responsibility on the part of western media to simply report the news and to leave their opinions to themselves. Freedom of speech is an American right not a Global one. And journalists here and abroad have no qualms about presenting their filter of "their" views. In many ways inciting much of the backlash that is now occuring. There is a lot of bad behavior from papparazzi, news media, political analyists etc. And there is no accountability or recourse for those harmed or insulted by it. We should be careful about "throwing stones" at China. As a talk show host recently said "If the games where held in the US, we would have to boycott ourselves based on our recent human rights violations". Why doesn't the media report on that?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

9th step — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:41:54 GMT

Well said, Tim from Portland. I love the country of China and the people are the best. American's go to other countires and kill people in that country. China historically has stayed home and killed each other.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mark Rochester NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:41:56 GMT

Is anyone really surprised about human rights violations going on in China? This county is a dictatorship, not a democracy. The only difference between China and the former USSR is that the Chinese government was smart enough to embrace free trade. Now, with an increasing military build-up, plus china owning most of America's debt, this county is set to overtake the USA within a decade at the earliest.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jim, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:42:27 GMT

I am totaly on China's side on this one. People should be thankful that China has taken on the burden of supporting Tibet. Those people live on a desolate mountain with no natural resources; they don't produce anything; they dont sell anything. If it were not for China, Tibet would rely on the charity of the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

K.Corn — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:45:22 GMT

I plan on boycotting the Olympics this year. It is obvious the Olymic Committe made a terrible mistake picking China as a place to hold the Olympics. BOYCOTT THE OLYMPICS IN '08. That is the only way we can to exprss our disappointment in the Committee and our anger in what is taking place in China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mario Muniz Rios Pinot, NY NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:46:29 GMT

Is this an internal issue of the Chinese? What is the issue? What relationship Tibet will have with China? For example if the South wanted to secede from the Union would we welcome other countries meddling and giving them encouragement to form their own nation? (Assuming the North did not want them to go). What human rights are being violated in Tibet? I think I saw the Dalai Lama said he wanted the games to go on in China. I have the impression that Tibet was a backward province of pre-communist China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Susan, San Francisco, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:04:17 GMT

It's such an irony that the government would approve such demonstrations just because it's anti-west. If it's a demonstration against the government or any leaders, it'd be cracked down, people arrested and jailed, possibly shot at. That's China's demonstration policy. If it's a demonstration you can see publicly, you know it's backed by the government. I'm not even for the Tibetan independence, but I just can't stand the hyposcricy of Chinese government. If you are really ok with demonstrations, then allow other demonstrations, such as Tian An Men square demonstration in 1989 where students just sat there and starving themselves, asking for freedom of journalism and speech. But no, they sent in the tanks instead.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

James Curtis, Indianapolis — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:04:20 GMT

Wonder if George W. will go to war with the Chinese to free Tibet? oops, forgot, Tibet has no oil.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom - Toledo, OH — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:04:34 GMT

Xenophobia if there ever was any. The Chinese owe thier national pride to the free world who have seen fit to out-source all of goods and jobs to their country. Try buying an American made product today...Good Luck.....Isn't ironic that Capitalism is responsible for thier boom economy? Not to mention the stealing of our technology, lax copy right laws and human rights abuses. Lenin is proud~

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Angry Hawaiian — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:05:52 GMT

You human rights activists. What is the deal with you? China conquered Tibet fair and square back in the 50s. We might not like it, but that's a fact. Furthermore, what right do you have to criticize China? Why should every nation be like the United States? We aren't the greatest, the ideal, the envy of every country in the globe, and it's time for you to accept that.

Tibet has even been under Chinese dominion from before the 50s. The Tang dynasty administrated the region, the Mongols took tribute from it; even if it wasn't a formal part of the empire, Tibet was still controlled by China.

Why doesn't China have the right to decide what goes on in it's own borders? They try to clean up their act, let more people in, and instantly! Protests, riots, killings, mobs pop up. China tries to control its people, and bam! Everyone around the world is up in arms, because there cannot be such a thing as strong central government. Just stop wishing for the colonial days already.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Robert Lockwood Mills, Sun City Center, Florida — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:08:01 GMT

Is there any way to make the Olympics illegal?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Forrest, VA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:08:10 GMT

What happen in China (people upset over western media) is exactly what happen here (people bashing China), it is natual reaction, what do you people upset about? If you treat others badly, they will do the same to you.

As for Tibet, it's not even a human rights issue, it is about somebody trying to split away from China. do you still remember what happen here during the civil war?

As of human right, China might have long way to go, but do you guy still remember what's like here in this country just 40 years ago? last time I check, Black people could not even sit on a bus in the 60's.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

anonymous — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:08:26 GMT

First of all, everyone should study their Chinese history carefully before commenting. There are a large number of, shall I say, "erronous statements" posted here.

Secondly, if I remember correctly, how did America react to criticism of our invasion of Iraq by the French in 2003? I'm not sure we were any different.

China is a large and complex country, whose government has only had 30 years or so to evolve after the Cultural Revolution, which was a disaster for the Chinese people. They have made much progress, although they have a long way to go. At a similar point in our history, we were actually pretty pathetic ourselves, and if you factor in Guantanamo Bay, etc., we're still pretty bad. If we use the same standards that we apply to most of America, Tibet has always been a part of China. If we want indepence for Tibet, then we should give America back to the native Americans. Kent State wasn't much different than Tiananmen Square, and what is happening in Tibet has many analogies to the civil rights movements in the 1950's and 1960's. Americans really should look at themselves more carefully before they criticize others. I think it is the right thing to do to pressure any government on the globe regarding human rights, including our own. China is not the monster that people are trying to make it out to be. If we were to focus on every police beating or other indiscretion in this country, we could make it look like a pretty bad place to live as well. Again, while China is not perfect, the media, etc., are creating what is a cartoon image that bears no relationship to reality. BTW, I am an American who has been to China, studied China intensely, speaks Chinese, etc..

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

james, warren, nj — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:08:50 GMT

For those of you could not help to lash out on China, just see for yourself: tomorrow (4/19) there will be worldwide demonstrations in LA, Paris, Germney, Those are Chinese live in the west. They are offenned by the biased western media coverage too. Please ask yourself why they are on streets, they are not under Chinese government/communist controlled/influnced free people.

That French president is a jerk. He was back from Beijin about a month ago, in which he signed huge billions dollars contract with Chinese government for ~50(?) Airbus planes. Then turn back split on his Chinese host. Why should Chinese give him those fat contract, instead giving Boeing of unites stats? If you knew this you might understand those upset Chinese people organize them self to boycut French business. It is understandable human nature.

After all, were we once changed the name of French fry to Freedom fry, when French refuse to join us to 'liberate' those poor Iraqs?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mark New York — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:09:20 GMT

Wow.. They (Chinese Govt) really do not get it. And sadly probably never will. I am sad these noble games being disgraced by the association with China's regime. If Tibet was not enough, The "rounding Up of Troublemakers" should be enough to end it. I will not watch or support the games this time around..

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

gERALD j. jOLLY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:07 GMT

Here is the problem, most Americans know nothing about China and the way the live, work, and love their children and family members, the same as we do in America. For the most part the average chinese person knows no more about the political side of life in China, much like the majority of Americans do. Just like America, they are fed propoganda on a daily basis that is usually filled with lies, the same as here in America. "QUESTION" when was the last time that the "BUSHWACKER" told the truth about anything?? "ANSWER" "NEVER"?? When was the last time that "DICKHEAD CHENEY" ever told the truth?? "ANSWER NEVER" What the average American knows about China, could'nt even fill a thimble!! Now here is the truth from an American who spent six years in China as a University Professor. In a six year period, I never saw or even heard of one person being shot with a firearm, In a six year period, I never saw or even heard of a young woman being raped by a bunch of sick and demented persons. In a six year periiod I never was accosted by a bunch of illiterate bullies. In a six year period I never saw nor heard of a car being stolen or stripped down for parts. In a six year period, I never saw nor heard of a big drug bust by the police, "YOU MAY ASK WHY"?? well the answer is that in China, drugs are illegal and considered a very serious crime, punishable by even the death penalty. It's true that there is some high level corruption, but unlike America, if the culprit is caught he will usually be sentenced to death, "WHAT HAPPENED TO THE "ENRON" CREEPS WHO PUT THOUSAND OF OLD FOLKS INTO ADVERSE POVERTY The Answer IS "VERY LITTLE"
AMERICANS ARE VICTIMIZED FAR MORE SERIOUSLY BY THE PEOPLE WHO THEY HAVE PUT IN POWER, MUCH MORE THAN THE PEOPLE IN CHINA HAVE.
A MASSACHUSSETTS IRISHMAN, THAT'S WHAT I AM ANS AN ASHAMED CITIZEN OF THE GOOD OLD U.S. of A.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Stymie — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:09 GMT

I won't watch one minute of the Olympics this time around. Maybe North Korea or Iran should hold the games next.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

American, Middle America, USA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:22 GMT

Oh come on. Tibet was a totalitarian theocracy. Now, there is a bunch of religious kooks burning and killing to bring the theocracy back. Does no one remember the Taleban? Or do they nuts have to be muslims before the west stops supporting them?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jesse Hart — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:24 GMT

This is about more than Tibet. This is about China's overall human-rights record. The United States has had its problems especially recently, but at least we have the hope of throwing our "bunch of goons and thugs" out of office. And at least I can make a post declaring our current government "goons and thugs" without having to worry that the government will make me disappear.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

R. SAWYER, LOUISVILLE, KY.` — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:44 GMT

MY QUESTION IS THAT KNOWING THE TERRIBLE RIGHTS RECORD OF THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT, WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD WE AWARD THEM THE OLYMPICS? DID WE THINK THAT THEY WOULD JUST ROLL OVER AND PLAY NICE? NO WAY IN HELL!!!!!!!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ron Cooper, Indianapolis, In. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:44 GMT

The Olympics is total BS anyway why does anyone care? Any event with Judges deciding the winners are fixed events. What is so beautiful about FAKE events?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

RM, LA, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:47 GMT

Sick and tired of some people and/or some countries acting as World Police or World Judge, telling other people or countries what to do. Look at yourselves or your own country first and take care of your own problems ( homeless, recession, oil price, inflation, health care, poverty, .... etc) first.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Z. Zhu, SC, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:38:54 GMT

The reaction in Beijing and all over China is a demonstration of anger being "cheated and lied about" by Western world, particularly the media here. Chinese people, especially young ones looked up to the Western world for so called democracy and justice. When they found out what had been practiced here were "double standards", worst "cut and paste", and "distortion" etc, they were totally shocked and lost. The "Western light" in their heart was lost. Now, CNN/Cafferty is becoming the image of American in the minds of most of ordinary Chinese people; this is dangerous! If we Amercian can not see this, then, God helps us!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Peter Marucci, Fergus, Ontario, Canada — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:41:21 GMT

President Harry Truman must have been thinking of China when he said: "If you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen!"

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

kj — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:41:30 GMT

Whereas China is clearly abusing human rights in Tibet, and has been cited for enabling the genocide in Darfur, let us not pretend as if the US has a pristine human rights record. I'm thinking Iraq here.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:42:00 GMT

It is against American short-terim/long-term interests to provoke the current and next generations of Chinese. For what?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Doe, Seattle, WA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:42:27 GMT

If the world truly cared about democracy, rights, Tibet, Darfur, etc., they would not watch the Olympics from this totalitarian regime. Amazing that despots such as Saddam are a threat, but the Chinese despots are to be coddled because we want to sell to them, use their cheap and slave labor and allow them to buy our debts caused by the war in Iraq. Aren't all despots a threat to freedom loving people all over the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

D. Byrne, Fishers, IN. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:42:45 GMT

C'mon people. Greatful that China took on the burden of supporting Tibet!?! I doubt the Tibetans felt that way when the Chinese tanks over ran them when China forcebly annexed their country. And continues to flood their country with ethnic Chinese so that a Tibetan can't even live or get a decent job in their capitol city. Wake up! China is a totalatariam regime, with no freedom of speech and a human rights record that makes Bush and his cronies look like Walt Disney. If you love China so much, go live there and see if you can bitch about the goverment, even a little, without the jackboots paying you a visit in the middle of the night!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Shawn — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:43:12 GMT

China is China. All the talk is getting annoying. Any country that is in disagreement with its politics and policies on human rights can choose not to deal with them, including everyone writing in whose household possessions are likely on average about 75% produced in China. Pipe down and take action.

And as far as any Americans making judgements, particularly the media, you must remember our political leader and commander in chief is nothing more than an ignorant oaf whom we have allowed to remain in office despite his repeated public insults to our intelligence and disregard for our international relations and well being of our military heroes.

It's easy to send a message to China without saying a word, just stop buying into it.

The sad part is, it seemingly much harder to get our own leadership (in a "free land") to listen to a damned word we say.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Hong Yang, Fresno, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:43:20 GMT

We owe the Chinese so much $$$ for the war in Iraq to toxic toys that we are to blame for all of this. We as Americans are against oppression with our hearts and minds but support it with our wallets? Who is truly to blame for this? What goes around comes around. Don't get me wrong, I am against the Chinese gov't but is our gov't any better? What we are doing in Iraq is the same crap in Tibet or worst. This is what happens when you let Bush run the gov't for 7 yrs.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

david G. Boise ID — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:43:32 GMT

THE WORLD MUST UNITE AND NEVER AGAIN ALLOW EVIL PEOPLE (I include GW BUSH in this) TO GOVERN. HOW CAN WE ASSURE THE ENTIRE WORLD THAT CORRUPT PEOPLE ARE NOT IN CHARGE????
Remember....it's the Chinese LEADERSHIP, not the country or the Chinese people themselves.

Have the Chinese forgotten about NANKING and the Japanese atrocitie back in WW2??? Now the LEADERS are doing the same thing the Japanese did.

It's not the form of government!! It's the PEOPLE running the government.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mike Brooks, Eugene, Oregon — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:43:39 GMT

Thank God!!! Maybe China will sooner show it's true colors and we can disconnect ourselves from them before it is too late. Right now, the hold over one trillion dollars in U.S. assets and currency. If we anger them, today, they can do us a lot of harm... all because of corporate greed and stupid blind politcian's allowing this to happen. If we continue down the globalization path we are on, they can wreck us entirely. It's time for this country to wake up to the dangers of outsourcing, free trade, guest workers (like Bill Gate's cheap Indian and Chinese H1-B engineers Microsoft and other high tech companies use to displace American engineers and programmers).

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Rich, Tucson, AZ — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:44:19 GMT

Kudos, Benet! You were spot-on with your analysis. Oh, how self-righteous we become when we forget to look in the mirror...

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

jay — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:44:47 GMT

If the Chinese want to continue to make the situation even uglier...they will see countries seriously consider boycott the games completely

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Len Sive, CIncinnati — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:44:47 GMT

What do people expect from a communist, totalitarian government? American corporations have salivated at the propect of making money by setting up businesses there. They have supported communists, aided and abetted totalitarian rulers--ie, sold out humanity for the sake of filthy lucre. These same corporate people allied themselves to Hitler, Mussolini, and Franco. They know one thing only--profit, even at the expense of justice, righteousness, and goodness. They are the real enemies, for they know better.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Naomi, Rainier, OR — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:45:28 GMT

Tibet has been a part of China for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. The Dalai Lama has asked for autonomy for the region, not to secede. Although, why "now" could be the question, since he has been politcally involved in this since he has been exiled.

We in the "Western" world do not look at things the same way a those in the "Eastern" world, and quite often it is our way, or the highway. So, now it seems that China is saying our way, or the highway, and we "Westerners" are ticked off. I may not agree with China's human rights issues, and the world has a collective right to have the Chinese government answer those questions. Although, we must all look at our own histories, as well.

The Chinese people are a diverse people and have a wonderfully historic culture. This is a time of celebrating all cultures and diversity, and I plan to watch as much of the Olympics as I can. Let the games begin.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

David, APO, AP — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:46:15 GMT

Boycott! The only resaonable response from any reasonable country or athlete.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Maurice — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:46:17 GMT

I still don't know how the IOC awarded the Olympics to China, I plan to boycott the olympics by not watching.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

qaf, Omaha, NE — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:47:00 GMT

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY... People who are claiming "the athletes have trained their whole lives" for this chance have missed the point - the athletes have a chance to say I have trained my whole life for my chance - and it's worth it to me to say NO to your government, NO to your brutality... But they won't. It's about money. Why hasn't NBC been the target like CNN - because NBC is owned by GE - one of the largest money-grubbing corporations in the world. They can't wait to get into China to reap their rewards...
Wake up America... You're being treated worse and blinded by your television and the media...

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Larry FL — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:47:32 GMT

Rob from Washington likes to compare the American government to that of China.

Rob that's why this country has headed down hill because people like you don't appreciate what you have here.

Why don't you simply move over seas so you don't have to be suppressed by this government!

Enjoy your frappuccino and shut your pie hole you don’t sound radical or hip !

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

American Born — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:50:42 GMT

Jim, Phoenix, AZ

hey liberal, those people can choose to live how ever they want...reminds me of those Arizonians who live in a desert with no resources except for what the rest of us give them...shoe goes on either foot...they have room in China for you too

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

mike nash — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:50:48 GMT

until America and Americans send a message with their wallets China and its government have no reason to change. We love the cheap goods that are made there.quit buying anything made there and they will have to change.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Shaan, New York, NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:50:51 GMT

Leave China alone. Theyre still better than US who go to other people's lands and bomb women and children just for oil.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tony, Saint John, Canada — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:51:06 GMT

...China wanted to be on the world stage and the Olympics was a forum they wanted to host
...the Olympics have in modern history ALWAYS been a forum for political statements -- this is NOT news
...China had (and still has) a golden opportunity to increase it's stature in the way it treates Tibet. It has woefully failed to capitalize on that
...Chinese dignity will not bow to Western pressure, but by setting up the farce of a global torch relay while not proactively showcasing relations with Tibet, they have becoming a laughing stock. And why?
... Tibet is too small to be a problem for China
... Tibet is a magnet of dreams (Everest, the Dalai Lama) and China is failing to capitalize on that
... AND IMPORTANTLY
... the rest of the world is NOT interested in being the backdrop for Chinese government propaganda. No one made them march the torch all around the world
... China wants to celebrate its entrance onto the world stage as host of a global celebration, but it seems to be tone deaf to the concept of orchestrating its presence in a world that will join in that celebration, but only as participants, not detainees

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Claudia, RO, EUROPE — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:51:44 GMT

You Americans are full of double-standards and hypocrisy. I will admit though that your media plays a major part in this. Almost feel sorry for you

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

matt, houston — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:51:45 GMT

LISTEN AMERICA, we have to show more intelligence and love as a people. I shouldnt have to bring up our own past, such as the treatment of American indians, slaves, and some of our own families and peoples on the streets, in our homes or even in traffic today. Even the Dali Lama isn't talking protest or a seperate Tibet. Reguardless if America and China will never see eye to eye, it is OUR responsibility to keep a positive line of communication or we will end up with a much bigger problem. I lived in China for 2 years and we dont want to get over a billion people into a mob mentality based on patiotism of their own. Lets stop pushing like 10 year old kids, calling names, and forgetting that we have plenty of problems of our own. Do we want results or do we just really want to do something reguardless of the outcome? Talk of protest will only hurt the atheletes, and judgments will only end up back at our front door.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

EzE in CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:51:55 GMT

Weiyang in Berkeley,CA (as oppossed to Beijing China), you are correct to say that a superpower will have many enemies.....it's a convenient tactic until tyranny comes calling....then the US becomes the savior. Certainly we Americans don't agree with our government's foriegn decisions and actions........and we openly protest them!....as you must see in Berkeley........but the comments made here on this site don't demean a love for China's rich culture, history and people.....only it's bullying government......much like we do our own when it's out of hand.......as it currently is. This is how free people think. Surely living in America you can understand that, so be a responsible free person and voice your opinion on human rights. It's yours and every Chinese persons right and obligation to the world!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Leslie Kansas City MO. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:52:03 GMT

I think if we start coming down to hard on China they might begin to hate us and then begin to put deadly substance in some of our goods we have them my for us. OH MY GOD WHAT A NIGHT MARE!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

billy bob — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:52:06 GMT

Will someone please tell me where I can find something that is not made in China? Macy's, Nordstrom, Lord and taylor down to Wal-mart, Target, JCPenny. Show me something that is not made in China. I'm talking ordinary shoppers here, not Gucci or Prada, etc.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

MERSCP — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:53:02 GMT

Rob from Washington, if you think it so bad here, move to China and see what those comments would have gotten you there. I trip to a very dark cell at best,at worst,you wouldn't be here any longer

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Kevin Zahn, Evansville, Indiana — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:53:32 GMT

Once again, it is easy to see that the Chinese are being attacked in the media because they are not Americans. We can attack country after country, but we still want to criticize others about their human rights while we admittedly torture people. We need to reread the Golden Rule. If China did what the USA has done, we would be at war with them. It is so embarassing to be a citizen of a country with so many hippocrates!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

David, Little Rock, Arkansas — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:53:33 GMT

I always get a chuckle when the Hate-Crowd uses anything like this as an excuse to bash the U.S. President also, kinda like Rob from Washington did above. Geesh....talking about narrow-minded.

On the actual topic of the article, initially I felt that we needed to continue with the games, so as to separate sports & politics. However, seeing China's recent actions & attitude, I'm leaning towards a full boycott. Or better yet, just don't even acknowledge that they exist. Bring all the athletes home & just ignore anything associated with the games.

That is usually the best way to knock an idea into someone's head. People HATE being ignored.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

American Born — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:53:44 GMT

Benet Garcia, Seattle Wash

the western media can't "just report the news"...look at the liberal bias they put on the news in our own country...Joe McCarthy tried to tell us

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Janell Singh — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:53:52 GMT

Communist Chinese government is clout with imperialism. We should recognize their current territorial disputes with Japan and ASEAN (oh so little countries you are!!) countries which it silently impressed the latter with their latest weight throwing economic and military subleties (lately). Incidentally, these pressures from this eastern giant should be brought into the UN or World Court.
They have been pushing, punishing the truly democratic Chinese nationals of Taiwan and around the globe since the 50's and continually squeeze the natural course of the Tibetan people and we shall not forget, despite the demise of the USSR, the Maoist underlings showing their recent distinctive color among the nations around China (Burma, Thailand, Philippines et. al) and South America without mentioning the economic assault in Africa and the Iran issue.

THESE ARE SIMPLY NEED TO BE ADDRESSED, REVIEWED AND ACTED UPON FOR THE NEXT 50 YEARS.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Richard Schmitt,Jr Floral City,Fl. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:54:32 GMT

Hello WalMart, are you guys listening? Everything I pick up there has "made in China" on it. Here's the REAL boycott, come on folks "vote" with your pocketbook. Get their attention!!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jim Huston, Rushville, IN — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:54:35 GMT

Sr. Pinot: Tibet was a sovereign nation with a rich history of independence going back a couple of thousand years, until the PRC invaded and subjugated it in 1950. What is happening now in China and Tibet is the real face of the Chinese government, not the phony smile they put on in order to put our dollars in their pockets. Make no mistake: China is nobody's friend, least of all ours.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tuff Luck — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:54:46 GMT

Better be nice to China without them we will be running around without underware,shoes,socks,&
no computer's.We need them to produce all these
item's for us.We have so many law's & tax's that
these so called politican's jam down our throats.
China pump's Billion's of Dollar's in there factories
All high tech super modern.

It is better & eaiser to have it shipped over here
then go through all the red tape to have anything made over here.And if you own the building that you produce item's in your property tax's look like an oversea's phone number. Hell let's put up a Chinease flag on all our buildings.

And I would love to thank G.M. for building the largest engine making plant in the world over there.The only thing different between a Communist & a Capitalist is the Communist has the job's & all the Money.
Due to the high pay union wants for there employees.

It Has a population of what 5 Billion, U.S. Has a population of
200 Million & look at the problem's we face.
China pump's Billion's of Dollar's in there factories
All high tech super modern. While our's are delapated
Our Government does nothing. Our economy is in shamble's. Look at katrina point your finger at that,
Still year's later & take a look. People have a short memory.
Im sure China will work out there problem.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

MERSCP — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:54:49 GMT

Shawn, do you really think that any of our "leaders"give a hoot what you as an individual says

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Kate, NY, NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:55:03 GMT

I really don't understand how my fellow Americans can attack China, when we have so much housekeeping to do at home. What about the folks at Guantanomo? What is going on with the war in Iraq? Remember Abu Gharib? I love the U.S. and the right to freedom of speech, but we have to finish our accounting at home first

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Drew N., L.A. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:55:04 GMT

Apparently western media and culture has forgotten how wrong it is to speak ill of foreign dignitaries. Blatant disrespect for authority has it consequences. Lucky it was only a call to the Chinese foreign bureau, with hat in hand, for an apology.

In the future, I offer some suggested phrases properly describing the Chinese leadership position on Tibet within acceptable bounds of free speech:
-Illegal occupiers (or better yet foreign occupiers)
-Repressors (although debatable as Tibet is an autonomous zone allowing some religion)

Evil speaking outside of the bounds of good journalism, and common sense:
-Goons and thugs

Instead of slandering Chinese leadership, it might be better to recognize that 100% of Chinese consider respect for authority as a high virtue. Considering, that the Chinese may consider ruling Tibet a ‘manifest destiny’, not unlike the U.S. conquest of the west. It is foolish for the U.S. media to take sides. No good can result. I pity Tibetans when the U.S. media gets involved.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Trebor Selpats, Dallas, Texas — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:00:32 GMT

Communist through social reform, capitalistic through economic reform. As economic events such as the olympics bring China to the spotlight, the shadows of society within the Communistic regigm can not but help be in the spotlight as well. Hopefully, the olympic committee took this into account when rewarding China its' spotlight. I doubt it concerned itself a decade ago with the fact that economic reform in China does not equate social reform. After traveling to several of the Chinese economic districts, I must say the world is naive. China and its' government will remain corrupt to maintain power. Power to opress, power to destroy the environment through economic progress, power to dominate the region and control the world economy.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

robert haight ,las vegas, nevada — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:00:39 GMT

The Chinese are so self centered. I have dealt with them for over 40 years as a "co-asian". So Chin centric that they cannot comprehend why anyone would not like their dominance. The Tibetians should co-align to the Tianamen Sq uprising to point out that the Chinese crush freedom wheather Tibetian or Chinese. In fact, the Chinese people themselves should rise up and join the Tibetians to raise their own level or human rights in their own country.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

American Born — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:00:49 GMT

kj

we are thinking Vietnam here...63,000 dead...Kennedy sent them to die...North Vietnam never attacked us...China has had every opportunity to handle this situation like human beings...so far they have failed the test

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John dale — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:00:55 GMT

To Jim in phoenix Az. Do you meen just like the worthless standing on just about every street corner
in the city. You know the ones , they have no natural
resources, they don't produce anything and expect charity all the time.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Doe — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:01:23 GMT

Interesting, there is no comments from any Chinese society, concluded by the names.

Is MSNBC has no influence on these specific audience or all other voice have been filtered(aka censored)?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Rich, Tracy, Ca — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:01:30 GMT

To "9th step"...who do you think was in Viet Nam? The hard core Chinese and financing it also. They don't stay home, they just keep it low key, but they are very active in supporting a lot of the S*** going on in the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Maggio - Washington, DC — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:01:46 GMT

Reading these posts is instructive. First, if they are truly representative of the writing skills of the average American, then the American educational system is broken. Simple grammatical errors abound up above. At least run your posts through Word and SpellCheck before you put them online. Second, make the distinction between the people of China and the government that does not represent them but controls them. Condemning the Chinese because of the actions of their government is wrong. Make the distinction and don't insult them. Third, most people posting above do seem to "get it." The People's Republic of China's government is totalitarian, corrupt, and could care less about human rights. Unfortunately, many Chinese take criticism of their country's dictatorship as criticism of them and their culture. This is not so. We all hoped that the Olympics might signal a turning point in China's evolution into a country with an accountable government. To the chagrin of the world, it appears to be backtracking on all its promises. Wake up, Beijing! You are looking more and more like Berlin in 1936. Finally, shame on the IOC for giving the Olympics to a dictatorship. The IOC is a closed "gentlemen's club" that conducts its business behind closed doors and needs to be dragged out into the sunlight. Come to think of it, there are more parallels between the IOC and the dictatorship running China than there are between the IOC and the liberal democracies of the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

L.L. NEW HAMPSHIRE — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:02:39 GMT

When Tibet was invaded in the 1950's the world did NOTHING.Tens of thousands of monks and nuns have been tortured and imprisoned;ditto for other Tibetan citizens' rights,not to mention priceless knowledge,artifacts,temples and homes.Tibet was self -supporting and has asked for autonomy. Communism makes no room for freedom,religious or otherwise.If we continue to tolerate this behaviour we disown our own principles as a free country [although China owns a great deal of American debt]and perhaps that is a quid pro quo of sorts...I say ,BOYCOTT! ITS JUST TOO BAD THE PEOPLE AND CULTURE SUFFER FOR THE STUPIDITY OF THE GOVERNMENT.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mark metzler Stockton, California — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:02:49 GMT

Lets not forget to call China's Tibet policy what it is....genocide. Just like the oil magnates...Bush/Cheney/Rice.. were guilty of genocide in the initial bombing of Iraq (100,000 killed vs estimated 90,000 to 140,000 killed in dropping nuclear bomb on Hiroshima)

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom, Reno, Nevada — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:04:57 GMT

Do not buy any products made in China and encourage your friends as well.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Bruce, Maurertown VA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:05:23 GMT

How about a REAL boycott -- one of companies that advertise on TV coverage of the Beijing olympics? Now THAT might do some good!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ed Farkas, Buffalo, NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:05:44 GMT

We should stop buying Chinese-made products and we should totally boycott the Olympics. Many of our problems at home are caused by the fact that millions upon millions of good manufacturing jobs have been moved to China. If we stop buying Chinese goods we will send a good message to China, and to our own "leaders" here at home who have allowed all those jobs to be lost.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Suckitup, California — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:05:56 GMT

Everything here in the USA was shipped from China.
Except automobiles. How much fuel was used to do that???
Money for Gas & oil from my pocket to give to the rich. EXPLOTATION AT ITS FINEST!!!!!!!!!
Also pres I need a job...........

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom Melvin, Denver, Colorado — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:06:00 GMT

Welcome China the past is finally catching up to you. I'm surprized the media has not linked the events in Tibet and Tianemen Square and put the spotlight right on the Communist Regime.I only hope the Chinese leaders "lose face" enough to change!!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

oea — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:06:08 GMT

Oh, please read books before placing stupid opinions, you don't know who Tibet belongs to, you are just following the stupid media, which has owners with political agendas.
No wonder people hate Americans so much, always giving opinions about everything while knowing nothing.
Can't handle Iraq and now are trying to pick on China, bunch of fools.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

apalonia, slc — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:06:56 GMT

All this retoric is beautiful and am in agreeance
when people condemn human rights violations, but
as one well knows americans are the biggest consumers
of chinese products,and how many of us shop at wal=mart?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

MERSCP — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:07:11 GMT

Mario Muniz, read up on your history and you will find that what you are saying is not true. Tibet was a sovereign nation invaded by China,not some rogue province wanting independence. It's not the same as the south wanting to be free from the north in the American civil war. If we were to invade Mexico and then put our foot on the necks and try to eliminate their culture and then they wanted to be free, that would be a batter analogy

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Carlos FL — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:07:24 GMT

China is just a little behind in the human rights arena. just like Europe was behind the US when it came to democracy. But then Europe got a little ahead of the US when it came to the abolishing of slavery.
Each country move at its own pace. Is china moving in the right direction?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Al Nestor, Lamar Pa. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:31 GMT

I spent considerable time in china 1989-1992 consulting for an American Firm. I found the people very nice and hospitable but their system of Govt. stinks. I have regrets now, thinking by helping them, I have sold out my country. I and my wife avoid purchasing any China made products. Negotation with their system is a myth. They only negotate on their terms. Been there. Al Pennsylvania

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jack Croucher, Provincetown, MA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:39 GMT

If Tibet was really an integral part of China why have the Chinese been committing physical, cultural and social genocide in Tibet for decades? International corporate interests have made sure that governments and the United Nations look the other way. A total boycott of the Olympic Games is the only thing that will save the Tibetan people from total extinction.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Micah, Keene NH — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:52 GMT

Larry from FL, what really is ruining this country is ignorant people such as yourself. You dont appreciate the dangers that the Bush administration has cast across this country, with the destructive policies and simplified actions it has commited over the years. Why dont you pack up your trailer and move across the border to mexico. We need to seriously clean this country of its white trash.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Still ugly,Suckitup, California — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:53 GMT

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Pablo, New York, NY — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:57 GMT

It is very funny how we Americans have two standards, one for ourself and one for everyone else. China have ruled over Tibet over 700 years and our country is only 232 years old. Can you imagine the Native Americans (aka "Indians") wanted their land back! Would we give it back to them? Can the Chinese give $39 worth of blankets to the Tibetans and call it even stevens like how we bought Manhattan? Those Southern kins of ours wanted to cede from the Union in 1860s, why did we have to fight a bloody war to "keep" them as part of the United States. Maybe the Russians can ask for Alaska back because of a misunderstanding because when they sold it to the United States they did not know there were significant oil deposits there. Are we crazy? We should stick to our own business and fix our health care and economy instead of spending Trillions of dollars to fix Iraq. All those people continue to support the war in Iraq should pay $6 a gallon of gas (Bush, McCain and company)and those people who want our troop home to protect the "homeland" can pay $1.5 a gallon. Oh, please tell our leadership that Al Qeada is in Afganistan/Pakastan and not Iraq, Iraq is where we get cheap smuggled oil from Saddam Hussein. That is something I can live with.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom, San Jose, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:11:02 GMT

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tibet

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Rose, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:11:32 GMT

You want to make an enemy, you'll get one. Chinese people are simply reacting to the way that they have been treaded by the biased reports from CNN and other western medias. To paint CNN as a victim of Chinese patriotism is a crying wolf. There are at lease 10:1 ratio of pro-China to pro-Tibet protesters, why the media gave 90% of the coverage to pro-Tibet protesters? The bias of media coverage has been obvious and only people who were not on site cannot see it.

Talking about Tibet issue and the Chinese responds to it, I don't see the difference of the reaction when the Civil War started in America and won by Lincoln led north. People, Leave other country's interior problem alone. If you want to teach others a lesson, you need to be a role model yourself first. Since US invaded Iraq, we lost our moral stand against any other nation!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jim Mc Carthy — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:11:44 GMT

I trully belisve in my heart that we should leave China alown. I was there in Sept 07and the people on the street ( non political) love Americans. the chinese do not have a drug problem??? why>>??? they execute drug smugglers..not in 17 years but in 30 to 60 days after conviction.. The US can learn a lot from China. They know how to control their country without any help for our left wing news and politicals...Let them live their life the way they want to...they are a wonderful people

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jim Jones — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:11:47 GMT

This is just another example of the Leaders of China's true goal of becoming the sole world superpower. Being both U.S. and the former Soviet Union, our wallet and their style of government. If we as a people don't wake up and take a stand then within the next 30 years we, if we are lucky, will be typing these post in Cantonese.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ty Nee Wong, Nashville Tn — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:28:25 GMT

Why does Tibet rebel against their mother nation? Boycott the games. We will prevail.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Donna, Campbell, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:28:43 GMT

This speaks for itself (from Tibetan):
Dear all,
I hope you know Tibet. Here i would like to tell some bad news in tibet. Since 10th peoples from all over the tibet took peace protest for freedom and human rights fight, unfortunatly chinese communism party amd
militaries crackdown the protests are by voilance. Till now more then 150 peaceful tibetan demonstrators have been killed and killing on....
More than 500 tibetans have been grievously injured and 1300 innocent tibetans have been detained and are being tortured, thousands of peoples are in jail. Lhasa and other big cities are filled with military
personals. Door to door search and arbitrary the asserts are being comettated, also they have shut down major monasteries and cut communication
lines. Some area the tibetans die of hunger, without food and water. Foreign media and tourists are very few in tibet now. So please support our
right and truth. My nation is not in my hand so we hope and depend to only your support for human right and truth..........

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

john Gold Coast, Australia — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:29:27 GMT

give China a break maby the USA should look at it's own failing economy and policies world wide and try to upgrade and clean it's own house. Some one should should take note that americe is not perfect and has no track record "last eight years" to try to rule the world. As far as Tibet goes it is part if China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

ED CHIN — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:29:26 GMT

HI ALL, I'M A AMERICAN BORN CHINESE ?GREMAN FROM NYC THE APPLE IF THE WORLD. KETME TELL YOU ALL SOMETHING ABOUT "CHINA" MY GRAND MOTHER WAAS THROWN IN TO A POND IF MY FATHER AND UNCLE WOULD'NT SEND MONEY TO THEM. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THAT. I WAS TRTING TO DO BUISNESS IN MACAO ANDMY WJHOLE PROJECT WAS STOLEN BY THOSE BASTARDS. ALL THEY CAN DO IS STEAL ALL OUR INTELLECTERURAL CONECPTS AND PLANS. SCREW THEM AND THEIR LOUSY COUNTRY. AMERICA AND THE WESTERN WORLD FIRST AND THHE HELL WITH THE REST. BY THE WAY, MY FAMILY LIVED ONLY EIGHT BLOCKS FROM THE WTC A DAY I WILL NEVER FORGET ( LIKE SOME OTHERS DO ) THAT DAY. AGAIN, SCREW CHINA THEIR A BUNCH OF THEIVES.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

mat8 — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:30:12 GMT

Shame on the American. Every time when the economy goes bad in country, people always blame on the foreigner. 20 years ago, the American blamed on the Japanese stealing their jobs. Now, the American again accuse the Chinese people are stealing their jobs and want to boycott the Olympics.

Please take this to the US government and the companies which make the most profit out of every product that made from China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

HZ, Sacramento, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:30:22 GMT

Most Americans believe that the Chinese took over a heaven-on earth society in Tibet 50 years ago. The fact is that 95% of Tibetans were slaves 50 years ago, proterty of a tiny group of religious and political leaders. Tibetans enjoy more rights than their Chinese counterparts in many way. The per capita economic subsdies to the Tibetans has been much higher than to any other region in China. While the Chinese central governement reenforces a strict one-child policy to control poplulation growth for more than 20 years, Tibetan population growth rate is 3 times higher than that of the CHinese in the last 50 years. The birth-control policy does not apply to any Tibetans. As for the compliant of the Chinese supression of Tibetan religious and cultural life, the truth is industrialization and commercialization of in any society marginalize local traditional culture. The West is really cristicising the rapid process of social, economic and cultural westernization in China and its negative influence of Tibetan life which used to be completely cut off from the rest of the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

M Lyster — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:30:43 GMT

Well put, LarryFL. Shawn, you're ignorant of the world. Get outside your dorm room and turn off the TV once in awhile---it'll do wonders for your intelligence.
China IS run by a bunch of octogenarian, postrevolutionary thugs. They're not annoyed by the world telling lies about them; they're annoyed by us telling the truth. The West caved on giving them the Olympics---or, more precisely caved by supporting the process economically. I don't blame the Chinese government for being what they are any more than I blame a snake for being venomous---but, I can choose not to pick it up. ANyone advertising or doing business there with an Olympic tie-in: for shame. You're part of the problem and not the solution.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Herman Fahrquar — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:31:03 GMT

It's a shame that China didn't learn anything from the suppression they suffered from the Japanese. Why don't we shift all those Wal-Mart dollars to Mexico and stop supportig China and get rid of our illegals at the same time?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Dr. Tiffany Twain, Hannibal, MO — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:31:25 GMT

I saw the Olympic torch run through San Francisco, and I can see both sides of this argument, the pro-Chinese nationalistic pride and patriotism and the anti-Chinese anger over the authoritarian suppression of dissent and the people of Tibet.

Issues are complex, and people's worldviews are short-term oriented. I am a strong advocate of dpper understandings and more far-sighted understandings. I encourage people to check out the incisive perspectives contained at www.EarthManifesto.com!

Thanks for giving issues consideration in their full complex contexts!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Mike Ghu — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:31:44 GMT

While the Chinese government is supported by over 80% of their people, the Bush government is supported by 30%? The Chinese look forward to rapid development
of their economy and culture, the Americans a recession. Human Rights? Talk about brainwashing.

If current trend continues, I will not be supprised
to live to see a world where the USA is like the former USSR, full of guns and ideology without
much of anything else, and a China like the US after
World War II, prosperous and full of hope.

Happy bashing China!!!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jack B. Rhode Island usa — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:43:06 GMT

The Chinese government is no different than when they slaughtered thousands of there own people in tiannaman
square. They like to put on a good face to bring in western money but they are no better than pimps. The Chinese people deserve much much better than that.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Anthony, Atlanta — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:43:07 GMT

America is the most to blame for what is happening in China. Our companies shipped all of our jobs to China and the Chinese government allowed them to build an industrial infrastructure in return the American companies get to rake in shameful profits.

Well the 20 years of golden capitalism are over.

American companies have gutted the American people to the point where we cant even afford cheap Chinese goods. Our government, to save the rears of their corporate cronies, have destroyed the dollar. The Chinese have moved away from hoarding dollars and investing in America because they need oil badly and oil as a commodity is pegged to the dollar. So they are divesting themselves of treasuries and other dollar pegged securities and they are pegging exports to the Euro which tanks our imports from China which our entire economy is based on.

Americans need to take back control of our country before China and Russia take us over economically.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Edward Gil,Mississauga,Ontario,canada — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:43:27 GMT

It is still time to move the Games somewhere else. The IOC and the World can not be held hostage by the chinese Governement. The IOC is THE BOSS.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Robert H, Ajax, Ontario, Canada. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:43:29 GMT

Uniformed people have no concept of the menace that China has become thanks to greed of the likes of Wallmart, HomeDepot, Canadian Tire and all of the other greedy Corporations that have stolen Jobs away from hard working Americans, Canadians and European manufacturing people. These jobs have given to China on a plate, these same corporations even have the gaul to send hard working Americans/Canadians, Europeans over to China to show the Chinese how to copy and steel our jobs, all in the name of saving a Dollar/Pound. If not for this corporate greed the Chinese would still be in the same position as the Tibet people "Third world" and not the super power that we have made them. If you ever have the oportunity to have an "honest" conversation with a person from China, please ask them has China forgiven the US and England for the "opium war", the Chinese have a very long memory,they never forgive a perceived insult, western world look out.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

kenny. Hove. Uk. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:44:04 GMT

Forget China, When this recession really kicks in their ecomomy goes down the tube. Dissent is in the air and inflation is running riot behind the scenes.All this and they are sitting on trillions of dollars that have plumeted in price. Remember the Tiger economies of the eighties? Right. Where are they now? Not much chance of any official boycoting as the olympics is just a big party and gravy train for the organisers and world officials. Watching millionths of a second being shaved off world records doesnt do it for me personally.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Gloria — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:44:53 GMT

Our economy has not been growing at the same rate as that of China because our own government has failed to look ahead and stragetize on our economic strengths. Unfortunately many Americans chose to see it as the Chinese being "sneaky" in gaining on us. I believe that this is the core of the resentment fanning the protests against supposed Chinese human rights abuses (why else hold a third-world nation to a higher overall standard than the United States? We have prison camps. We classify civilians as "enemy combatants"), and the popularization of the Tibetan "independence" movement (China is a country made up of hundreds of ethnic groups; how would Americans have liked it if the British had told the United States to let the Southern Confederacy seceed? Keep in mind the Tibetan government was not a democracy. The Dalai Lama was living extravagantly by his country's standards then, and is still living extremely well now.)

It's all fine and good for the media to say they were just critiquing the Chinese government. But it is irresponsible to report only on one side of the issue, as many Americans are already resentful of China's economic rise, and will be easily tempted to confuse criticism of the nebulous Chinese government with antagonism against China or people of Chinese descent.

China is still a poor country overall, with a much lower standard of living than what we enjoy here. Let's spend our energies pressuring our politicians to capitalize on our nation's strengths, rather than clinging to a manufactured sense of brotherhood with Tibetan monks and antagonizing the Chinese people by trying to destroy the pride they feel in being able to host the Olympics in 2008.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

David Murillo, San Antonio, TX — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:46:17 GMT

Boycott the damned thing and be done with it!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Theresa, Whitefield, nh — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:46:23 GMT

They have to do what they are told or they are put in jails.
Which is wrong to do so. They have no rights at all. There farm lands are taken away. Flooded and etc. Grounds of Buddhist temples are flooded too. They can't spreak up what is going wrong at all or they are taken work camps

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Dennis Jensen, Danville, California — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:46:33 GMT

Maybe the Chinese have the right idea. We conservatives should demand fair and equal treatment from CNN as well.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

David Murillo, San Antonio, TX — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:46:48 GMT

Boycott the damned thing and be done with it!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jim Lee, Baltimore, Maryland — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:53:18 GMT

Most Chinese loves China even they were slaves in the past, just like African American. 4/19/08 there will be pro-China rallies all over the world. United States is the most free country. CNN, commentator Jack Cafferty have courage to offend Chinese and others but African American, although they hate them from the bottom of their heart.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Michael Wong — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:53:21 GMT

... particularly for remarks made by commentator Jack Cafferty, who referred to China’s leaders – not the Chinese people – as a "bunch of goons and thugs." ...

Here's the original episode:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j2bvOq3fLA

I don't hear a word "government" or "leader". I guess you can say Jack Cafferty is goon and thug, later retracting by saying you mean his dog.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Hans Kraus, San Francisco — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:53:45 GMT

Patriotic fervor scares me. Especially when it is fomented by the government of the most vial totalitarian regime on earth totally opposed to our undestanding of human rights and civil society. It is earily reminiscent of 1936 Germany and its games. Appeasement did not work then and will not work here. China is growing more and more aggresive every day (and stronger thanks to our buying what they make).

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Donna, Baton Rouge, LA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:54:11 GMT

To Weiyang from Berkeley, CA: It is obvious from your posting that you are not from the USA. The very fact that you can participate in this blog to emote anti-american sentiment (and most importantly, we, as citizens of our own country can participate to spout off about our own government in these blogs) is made possible through a primary freedom from our bill of rights and constitution that gurantees us (citizens & non-citizens alike) to speak about world affairs without fear of reprisal. This is truly a gift to you & me.

I doubt that you could complain about your government and their actions or in this case their reactions if you were trying to blog while you are in China without some consequences. Please think about this.

The USA did not bring this scrutiny upon China that this article is based. China brought this scrutiny upon themselves by closing their doors to the very world citizens that could report about all the accomplishments that China has achieved and will achieve. What other reason would China close their doors now, at this great opportunity that the Olympics offer other than they don't want the world to know what is going on in their country.

I wish you well, Weiyang and I do value your opinion. Keep blogging!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Randy — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:54:16 GMT

I see a lot of ignorance being demonstrated here. "Red China"? What is this, the 1950's? Do we call Cuba "Red Cuba"? Did we call the USSR "Red Russia"? China's government is not a "REGIME". You know what a regime was? It was when the western and european powers were RAPING China and England went to WAR with China over the right to import Opium into the country. England is the original drug-dealer. China's government has the massive responsibility of caring for 1/4th of the world's population. In the last 20 years, China's middle class has exploded in size to over 300 million people. That's more people than the entire USA population.

And what has happened to America's middle class in the last 20 years??? When you figure that out then come back here and tell me whose government has been better for their people.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

George, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:54:41 GMT

Obviously these acts of intimidation against Westerners and these protests are being orchestrated by "The Bejing clique!"

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jeff, Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:54:46 GMT

The only reason China feels threatened is that the truth is revealed. Not letting simple people into your country just proves to the world that you have something to hide. Accusing CNN reporters and twisting there words is only a ploy to get your people angry. The real truth is that your government was not the origonal government in Tibet or even the rest of China for that matter. Your marched into the land took the governments down through oppression and brute force. Now the people are letting you know how they feel. This is not an attack on the Chinese culture it is the reality that the Chinese government is not apart of the culture, they are oppressing the culture. You have only ran the country for 3/4 of a century you are not apart of the culture if you were you would let your people (culture) grow. That would be impossible for you to do because the they would have to have the natural rights given to all men: Free Speech , Free Religion , Free Government. If they had these things to grow then you would not be oppressing them.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Wayne Gee in New York. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:55:08 GMT

Western media used double standard. When Korea was under militry rule, Olympic game landed there. the western media or groups did not protest as strongly as this campaign against China. It is not deniable that average joes and janes have limited knowldge on China. Media are to blame.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Alex, Seattle, WA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:56:31 GMT

Larry from FL -Why a frappuccino? That seems weirdly specific.

But I agree with you. We need to understand that however flawed our leaders may be, what we have in this country is relatively unique. Unfortunately for the rest of the world, Americans can be rather spoiled and are generally quick to forget that no so far away there are people starving to death on a daily basis.

China and Tibet both fall into that category of things forgotten in America. I'm grateful that the Olympics will be taking place in Beijing - it has raised a new sense of awareness and concern about China's influence and impact on the rest of the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

J. Edwards — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:57:19 GMT

YES, the WEST remembers the man standing up to the tank. YES, the WEST will remind China again and again and again. China had better get used to it, not whine and start cleaning up it's act. It's a great big world, China invited in for some sports events, and China has got some learning to do.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Maria — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:00 GMT

Chinese thinks they're the best in the world and they plan to take over the world one of these days when you least expect it. It's going to be mighty ugly. They're the most greedy and brutal people on the planet!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

bill, everett, washington — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:19 GMT

i will not be watching the olympics, but not because china is in tibet. tibet was peacefully occupied and some cash was spread around at the time in the name of socialism. the majority of tibetans went along, so they have no complaint. i am going to stop buying chinese and boycott the olympics because china sells much junk and they are our idealogical enemy. pure and simple. we have no business even trading with them and allowing them to buy a stake in our nation. we need to mind our own business and i believe we have plenty to mind. it is pretty flakey to critisize other countries when we have more of a mess at home than we can take care of in the near future.
pull our troops out of korea, out of germany, out of iraq. we arent wanted or appreciated and we have ourselves to blame
the national lampoon said it well years ago "give ireland back to the irish, give lappland back to the lapps, give china back to the chinese, and yoko back to the japs!"
charity begins at home folks.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Steve H Denver,CO — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:24 GMT

PBS recently produced a program on worldwide illicit traffic of goods/people/drugs etc much of which originates in China. We have a stranglehold on us that we have allowed to happen with open arms by allowing all our goods to be made in China. I do believe the Chinese do not have a code of ethics that guide their business practices nor do they have the regulations that keep business and politics accountable. We should demonstrate as much as we can at this time against their practices.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

BW — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:33 GMT

As a "well-respected" news media, CNN should stick with what they were set to do from day one - reporting events, not their name-calling opions. I know, bashing China is popular nowadays, but please, tell us something we don't already know or hear everyday!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Naomi, Alaska — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:44 GMT

Shawn, unfortunatly everyone will not agree on politics. That is the nature of the beast when you are trying to please so many people. However it is the right you have to call our commander in chief an "ignorant oaf" that means you are in America. China's government is punishing businesses and people for mearly doubting their judgement, not outright insulting them. I agree talk is cheap. If you protest China, stop buying things from China and supporting their economy. But look at the Olympic athletes, some of whome this will be their only chance to compete agains the best of the best, and dont judge them too harshly. Oh and Shawn... if our country is so bad, our government will let you leave and live somewhere else...

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

turiddhu, staten island,new york — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:58:52 GMT

if they want taiwan they can forget it ! they would enslave the taiwanese like they are doing with tibet and the free world should and probably will make sure that will never happen! especially after their eyes have been forcefully opened by these events!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Lhuntse, Bethesda,MD — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:59:08 GMT

Just imagine if the Chinese are offended by Western media; how the Tibetans had gone thru the Chinese totalitarian regime for almost 60 years. After the recent largely peaceful protests by Tibetans in all over Tibet, China had shut off Tibet to the outside world. The criminal government there had already killed hundreds of Tibetans and as I write this killing, torturing and imprisoning thousands of Tibetans. They had shut down all the communications to the outside world so as to make sure nobody in the outside world would know their crimes.
The best solution for Tibet is it should be left to the Tibetans as it was before the Chinese commnunists forcefully occupied it in 1949. Tibet was distinct nation with its territory, history, government, language, culture, religion. Even the geography of Tibet is different as it is much higher than the Chinese territories. The Tibetan Plateau.
China's past land border can be seen even today by anybody in the world and it is so-called the Great Wall of China. They had build that to check foreign invasions. So everybody should be clear about this.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Redd Green — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:59:11 GMT

Yes, stop buying garbage products from China, and they'll change their tune. Its a brutal dictatorship, a bonfire waiting to happen, there's no other way to describe China. How stupid are American companies to move their operations to a country run by a dictatorship? These are far worse than the criminals that run the USA. They treat their own people worse than garbage. Poor peasants barely able to survive have their land taken away, for pennies on the chinese dollar, by Government officials whenever they want to build condos, or let a foreign company build a factory there. Are Chinese citizens that incredibly stupid, that they don't force their government to look out for Chinese first? They are getting what they deserve.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Katie, Davis, CA — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:59:30 GMT

Weiyang from Berkeley, I personally don't want to treat China as "my enemy." I am white, a native Californian, and I have Chinese friends and respect your wonderful culture. But what has happened with Tibet is WRONG. Just face it. Would you yourself want to be persecuted? I don't think so. As Americans, we can like your people but not agree with some of your governments policies. I would think that since you seem to be residing in the highly educated city of Berkeley, you would be able to make this distinction.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

nicholas renault — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:34:25 GMT

"ONE WORLD ONE DREAM" really means "ONE CHINA." The hateful Chinese facist government is the modern Nazi regime. American material greed/addiction for cheap products fuels this Chinese Facism. American are as guitly of the 1.2 million deaths of Tibetians as THE CHINESE PEOPLE ARE! Where is the outrage of the so-called Chinese population for the Chinese murders of the peaceful Tibetian population...I will tell you. They are silent, their silence is their agreement of the GENOCIDE OF THE TIBET NATION. The COLD heart of the Chinese population wolrdwide is as COLD as the Nazi herat of the last century. America enjoy your cheap product, we are as hateful as the murderous China, but hey China feeds out material addiction...they are our "drug" dealer.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Wayne, NC — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:34:44 GMT

If you're really about China and it's human rights record and want to have an impact, don't buy any products that have been made or prepared in China. At the same time you would be sending a message to all the big corporations who have sent our jobs overseas so they could pocket more money at your expense.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

MX,China — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:35:01 GMT

The fact is that Jack Cafferty made those remarks first and then found excuse of "he only targetted Chinese leaders not the people" only after Chinese made protests against his words.

But please look at how this article talks about this issue:
particularly for remarks made by commentator Jack Cafferty, who referred to China’s leaders – not the Chinese people – as a "bunch of goons and thugs."

On Thursday, CNN’s bureau chief in Beijing was summoned to China’s Foreign Ministry, where officials demanded an apology and a retraction of Cafferty’s comments.

Those carefully chosen words put blame on Chinese. Has anyone here agreed with me? Now have you realized how the western media twists things by adding its biased opinions?

The western media has been twisting China for the last 50 years, now China and Chinese people fight back. So it is hopeful that the western people get just report about China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Chris Hadley, Saint George UT — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:35:11 GMT

I spent several months working in China and I must say that the majority of people I met there are great. I do not care much for the government there, but I have issues with our government too. Granted - at least I have the ability to freely voice my concerns. (China should have expected some critical expressions when they decided to host the olymics.)

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

MK — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:35:28 GMT

I suggest USOC withdraw from the Olympics and the United States take measures to shut down our Embassy. I also recommend that we recall all American business personnel and shut down all trade with Communist China. I do not need their products, especially when they are found to be physically harmful and environmentally harmful. We need to get over our fear of China and let them know that their opression and way of life will no longer be tolerated.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

rick l-las vegas nv — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:36:22 GMT

unfortunately you all are missing the point.politics are politics and sports are for the dedicated young athletes who have worked hard to get there.why should they get punished?i am not trying to make political judgement ,just let the games begin .in time the world will get to where its supposed

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jeff, Columbus, Ohio — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:36:56 GMT

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

AH, California — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:36:58 GMT

The world should and must boycott the Olympics and any goods made in China. The Chinese (not Taiwanese) and its government will never change. The recent exposure of nationalistic sentiment of the Chinese people sheds light to the world that there's no difference between the Chinese people and its goverment. Over 50 years of communism in China has brainwashed every single generation of Chinese. The concept of human rights to the Chinese is as foreign as balut to the American people.

China's primary goal for the past 2000 years has been to subjugate and dominate all of Asia. China is using the Olympics as an opportunty to flex its muscle and we should not help it- Free Tibet and its people!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

James Jordan, Memphis, Tennessee — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:37:13 GMT

The West portray itself as being so damned self righteous and yet they pounce on a Religious sect on Texas and take away their children and treat them like criminals because they live and worship differently than the arrogant self righteous do gooders and criminal legal system in America.

I say China's business in regards to Tibet is none of the outside worlds business.

This China bashing has gone too far and I for one say, If the shoe were on the other foot which it is... who is bad and who is good?

China has come a long way to reforms and social improvement, yet because they are different from the West e.g. (communist regime) and the West believe their idelogoical system is better?!!
That is a huge load of crap!

I am an American white male living in America and I can tell you our country is very much like a facist police state and hell bbent on infringing on our civil liberties and wrecking our economy and middle class.

I have a Chinese wife and daughter in China I pray this China bashing doesn't affect my ability to go back to my home in China to visit my family.

In America No one's right and no one's wrong.... almost anything goes, yet because China is correct in no allowing an outside people and government push them around concerning their own affairs... I say to the Chinese government and people.... Thumbs up!

Tell the West and those arrogant outsiders to PISS OFF!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Macaca, Baltimore , MD — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 02:37:29 GMT

china is not totalitarian...it is authoritarian. . chinese people have more freedom than they have ever had in history,

and for the american patriots who think you can offend china at will, do you really think it's a smart idea to piss off your banker like that? who do you think is allowing you to buy all those goodies, including your house and gas-guzzling SUV, at discounted interest rates?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

William Rork Kona Hawaii — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 02:45:12 GMT

I stay in China and Asia for 10 monthes each year doing business... I lived in Taiwan when one party rule was in force.... At that time we the USA supported the KMT... There was no freedom of speach or fredom to have another political party... For all out there that bash China... it will not help... allow the olympics to go on and support them... visitors from around the world will come and leave their ideas and thoughts with the everyday people on the street... This will influence change...

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Gordon, Fremont CA — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 02:50:51 GMT

Please, Americans (and many Westerners in general) like you and me are so quick to condemn people without understanding the first thing about China. Why shouldn't the Chinese people in China be patriotic against Western influences and interference? Hell, I'm a Chinese American who has served in the U.S. Air Force for 8 years and even I am sickened by the biaseness of the U.S. media. Make no mistake about it, this is as much about China as it is about Xenophobia within the good ol' U.S. of A.

We Americans love to preach tolerance and understanding but on the other hand, how many times in the 230 year history of the U.S. have we tried to force our ideals onto others as if ours is somehow superior. Manifest Destiny anyone? What about White Man's Burden? These twisted idealogies are still live and well. We love to condemn other nations for their human rights abuses when we've got ton of that in our own backyard. Let's just skip the obvious slavery and America Indian treatment issues shall we. What about Japanese concentration camps during WW2? Guantanamo Bay ring a bell? How about CIA sanctioned Secret Eastern Europe prisons? Some of you need to get over your indignant selves like you're on some moral high ground and take care of the mess in your own backyard before preaching to other countries on how to do things. Hypocrisy at it's best.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Gordon, Fremont CA — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:01:32 GMT

Oh and another thing, all this talk of boycott and not buying Chinese made goods is stupifying. Do any of you people actually think that the Chinese Government is going to be seriously affected by such boycotts? I mean, they do have investments in many major global corporations and financial companies so they will continue to rake in the dough to pay their salaries.

The true victims of those boycott non-sense would be the everyday Chinese people as they lose their jobs in the factories or warehouses. Of course, some of you won't care because you've already shown plenty of scorn for the Chinese people in general and are basically one step away from racist pricks. Racial tolerance in America? What a pipe dream.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:03:00 GMT

No investigation will have no say!

DO you understand China?

Have you been to China?

The media are to blame for starting the rumours!!!

They always give people wrong signals！

Do not too CNN being a human.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Paul, Belmont, Ca — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:04:04 GMT

My work gets outsource to china. They consume natural resources like they are going out of style. They copy and counterfeit Japanese and Western products. They sell diseased animal and agriculture products to the world. People have die as a result. They brutally place the "boot of oppression" on Tibet and other non-Han people. And the world to suppose to "rejoice" in their Olympics without comment and smile. Boycott!!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Pete — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:07:25 GMT

if you guys want to boycott the Olympics in Beijing or China for that matter, then stop bullshitting here and take action. What is the use of babbling so much here? Nothing will change. I guess some, if not all the parts of your computer you are using to send out those comments are made in china. Take action! Send petitions to the white house! Prevent Air Force One from taking off to Beijing! Stop buying made in china stuff! At the same time, you can forget about cheap goods because cheap stuff = made in china.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

chris, Toronto — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:08:51 GMT

Never before had I seen so much close mindedness on one blog about any one subject; and it is not surprising coming from a whole bunch of hicks that know nothing about China's past as well as that of Tibet. Tibet was ruled by Lama class who own slaves and those who are protesting overseas are the one who had their slaves liberated by the Chinese Government. Know the history before you comment on its future; please!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:09:05 GMT

Here in China, a Chinese person asked me about CNN saying bad things about Chinese people.

I said no, they only criticise the politicians, the people who run the country.

Response? "It is the same."

Whoa.

Are the Chinese the Borg of present day, where all are equal and to criticise one is to criticise all?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Alain Milaire, Detroit, MI — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:11:34 GMT

Tibet is a landlocked nation, dirt poor and with very little going for it. Tibet is also an autonomous region that receives a lot of economic investment from China. In 2006 Tibets GDP was only 3.8 billion US$, yet China invested 4 billion US$ in a railway to Tibet's capital Lhasa. In the first year alone the railway brought in 1.5 million visitors to a region with about 2.7 million people.

China is also a net exporter of capital and helps support the dollar through its purchases of American financial instruments. China also has a single party democracy and I'd be hard pressed to see any other country achieve the economic progress they've enjoyed for the last 30 years. The per capita disposable income of Tibetans increased 30% between 2000 and 2005. Tibet with China is doing very well. Tibet with the Dalai Lama and other opportunist leaders would be dirt poor and the average Tibetan would experience a large decline in their quality of life. Why don't we talk about the 10,000's of dead Iraqi's thanks to the bungled war or ask the 5 million or so Iraqi refuges how they feel about being liberated by our great 2 party democracy? Patriotism starts with informed citizens not ignorance and prejudice.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

George — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:34:32 GMT

Coco Cola and Samsung should cease their sponsorship for this blood stained Olympics, or the much talked corporate social responsibility is a nothing but a farce. The world should stand up and stop the Olympic torch passing through Tibet, to mitigate the ongoing Chinese crackdown on Tibetans, who are asking nothing less than freedom as do the Chinese themselves.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jack Magley, Wabash, IN. — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:43:09 GMT

The Olympics were held in our country with no debate even after we put Japanese-Americans in internment camps during WWII. You're country doesn't have to be communist for it to be in-humane at times. To me, this is just life, and its too bad life has to be like this.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Pablo Tom, Kamuela HI — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:44:44 GMT

Easeup everyone about CHina and it's abuse of human rights. A lot of what's happening there we wouldn't approve of but one has to recognize what it has done for its citizens. More has been accomplised in the last decade than over the last century The books on prewar China are gruesome with heads without bodies.

Make no mistake about the current wave of nationalism taking place in China. It is true that China tried to move Tibet out of the feudal stage and thought that poseriy would do it. There were complaint from the Han Chinese that the government acted too slow in putting down the rebellion.

Our government makes enemies from friends All this China bashing could be because the western world see China as a threat. Something has to give when the people become prosperous when the hungary mouths of 1.2 million are fed. Never in history has this been accomplised before and without war . Don't push China in a corner.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Harry, Beijing, China — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:50:07 GMT

John Doe and D Byrne, did you guys see tanks run over Tibetans? What I saw is US tanks run over Iraq streets. Chinese labor maybe cheap here but we are no slaves! We can bitch above our government without someone visiting us at midnight. We do have freedom, maybe not to the extent americans do, but we are getting there. I guess that's something some western politicians don't want to see, so they want to boycott BJ and force chinese government to overeact and close the door. Otherwise why will they turn a sports event into a political one? No one would boycott a US olympics for Iraq war.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

vishal, Edison, NJ — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 03:58:12 GMT

For years i have been posting messages on bulletin boards ..for anyone who would listen about the menace of Chiana. And for years i have been noticing , with growing dismay, the incremental growth of Chinese economic might. I used to boycott chinese made products but it has reached a point where it has become well neigh impossible to buy anything that is not made in China. We are nurturing a monster with our dollars and our jobs. And a day will come when we will bitterly rue our folly.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Bernice W., St. Paul, MN — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:00:16 GMT

And let's not forget who gave China Favored Nation Status several years ago... My husband and I have been attempting to purchased products not made in China if at all possible. Sometimes we decide we really don't need the item, other times we just keep looking until we find it made in another country (sheets for instance) but sometimes it is flat-out impossible. We need to support companies that choose to bring their work back to the US, such as New Balance. New Balance realized it was wrong to out source to China and brought everything back to the States. No more Nike for me. If I can put my money where my mouth is, you better believe I will.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jeff, St. Louis, MO — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:09:19 GMT

I can't believe that some people commenting can equate the U.S. human rights record with that of China. Yes, we have certainly had our recent problems such as Abu Ghraib, but the majority of the public has enough of a conscience to decry these actions, and the criminals end up punished. Anyone in China who decries the actions of the Chinese government's human-rights abuses is subject to their own human rights being abused. Furthermore, to even attempt to equate the scale of these abuses between their government and ours is an exercise in stupidity.

By only embracing the worst aspects of unbridled capitalism and not the free exchange of ideas and speech that keep it in check, China will end up destroying itself from within. Let's hope that she doesn't destroy the rest of us in the meantime.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom Paine — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:11:03 GMT

China: hyper repressive communist dictatorship.
Cuba: hyper repressive communist dictatorship.
China: WTO member and MFN trade status.
Cuba: total US Govt mandated trade embargo.
The Second American Revolution (hopefully, non-violent) against the despots in DC and on Wall Street is long overdue.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Lee, Beijing — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:22:31 GMT

These Nationalist morons don't understand the simplest ideas of debate or discussion. All they can do is threaten and attack without any regard for logic. That's nationalism, not patriotism.

To give a fairly common tactic, if a westerner criticizes China's behavior in Tibet, they instantly bring up examples like the slave trade or US slaughter of native Americans and then tries to tell the westerner to shut up, because China's better, because they invest in Tibet. The problem is that by bringing up these things, they are essentially saying they are the same. Investment in Tibet is irrelevant because the US is a richer place materially as well (thanks to White "investment"). What they should understand is that all the "investment" and "enrichment" (especially enrichment of the majority over the now minority in their own land)does not make up for perceived injustices by the minority.

Look at how the US handles it's sticky and nasty history. We debate, we have mock trials in school for Andrew Jackson for the trail of tears or sometimes even Harry Truman over the atom bomb. China simply teaches it's brainwashed children one side of the story, that "Tibet has always and will always be a part of China" and that is that. There is no soul searching or debate of the merits. Just cold fact memorization. And because that is how these kids are educated most mainland Chinese lack even the slightest ability to weigh arguments or soul search or debate or come up with a reasonable argument they haven't been spoon fed.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Russian American — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:24:35 GMT

No doubts - Chinese regime (not people) sucks. But my main concern is that we stil have many so called Chinese "patriots" like Weiyang, Berkeley, CA in US. If don't like this country just go back to your beautiful and humane motherland. We are fed up with Soviet Union "humanism" (I know what I am talking about as I was born there). And after all it's not about Tibet, it's about a value of human life.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Alex C Montreal Quebec — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:31:17 GMT

Hi everybody, please let me introduce my self: I am a Canadian Chinese and I was proud of the West. I said "I was proud"! But now, I have to say that the West dissapointed me a lot! I learned in Canadian school what is moral, what is freedom of speach, what is justice, what is evidence, etc.
But now, what I saw on the News is not justice, is not moral, is not freedom of speach, is not evidence... Is barbarian! People attacking an handicap who is protecting the Olympic torch!

The West said China crackdowns on Tibet's monks, where is the evidence? I was there and I saw Chinese Han, Moslems and even Tibetans are being attacked by
organized crime! And the Chinese police and the Tibetan police are working side by side to protect the victims.
Is that a crackdown?
China is protecting their people! Is that something wrong with that?
The American sent troops to Iraq and killing them, breaking their country, breaking their familly is moral?
I thing what the West shown to the world and to China is how barbarian West is and the West is not as civilized as they thought!
I thing we should show the world the truth not the prejudice!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

zhongliang chongqing P.R.China — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:35:33 GMT

I found it's so hypocritical for those people here judging China without any knowledge about China. Where is human rights in Iraq? i was born and grew up there, I advise those people who think chinese human rights, you need, at first, give the human rights to Iraq. we chinese, don't need your way of human rights.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

san miguel, Shanghai — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:36:21 GMT

The fact about media bias is that one cannot clearly see it, when one is brought up that culture. The fact is also, that the Western media is extremely one-sided in it's reporting of China.

Watch the future however, as China becomes more powerful, the Western media bias will slowly lessen. I suspect inside of 20 or 30 years Chinese interests will have boughten up some media groups or have made strong inroads into Western markets with their own media. By then, all of today's China haters will be whistling a different tune.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Amanda, Muncie, IN — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:44:27 GMT

To: Bob Griswold

Yep - or as much as Berlin deserved it in 1936.

What's funny is back in 2001 when the IOC announced Beijing as the host for this year, the IOC expressed concerns that the world might go berserk with protests. Then they justified their decision by saying they hoped that China would change its human rights policies because of the world scrutiny. Now the IOC is trying to back-pedal by saying they never anticipated this. I call bullsh*t!

Shame on you, IOC. You make me sick.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tie Zhao, Shenzhen, China — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:56:07 GMT

Which country wants to be ruled by Buddhist monks? Who want Tibet returnee to the slavery system again? Tibetans are being used by some Western organizations.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Amanda, Muncie, IN — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:56:26 GMT

to Shawn - The problem is, most of us don't have a choice whether we buy products made in china. Until the pet food crisis last year, how many of us knew that the main ingredient in pet/livestock food was grown in china?

See, most of us don't know what components of our household goods were produced in China. It's not made public knowledge. But if we choose to restrict ourselves to purchasing only those items made from 100% American components, assembled on American soil, you know what we'd have?
A turnip, maybe. Which was probably grown using pesticides, fertilizer, and irrigation systems produced in China.

I'm not saying this is a good thing. Frankly, it would be awesome if we produced more of our own goods. But we don't, and we have no way of knowing what IS a 100% US product. So saying, TAKE ACTION - BUY US PRODUCTS ONLY is kind of a cop-out. We need to start further back than that. We need to do more than just checking the label to see if it says "made in the USA" because that means nothing at this point.

Shawn, I like your rhetoric, and I like your basic premise, but that's all it is - rhetoric. Which seems just a little thin.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ted, Shanghai, China — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 04:58:37 GMT

I'm an American living in China and love it here! People on this forum make it sound like a horrible place to live and they haven't even visited here. You are all judging things on what you have been told about China from your media. Jim from Arizona has it right on. They are very poor and in a desolate area that wouldn't even be able to produce what they need to support themselves. They should be thanking the Chinese for what they have done for them.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

John Morrison. Anchorage, AK — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:14:14 GMT

In the 1940's we sympathized deeply with the Chinese people for the horrible, brutal atrocities the Japanese were inflicting on them during its occupation of much of China. When world War II ended and the Japs were kicked out we hoped China would heal its wounds and return to good internal relationships within itself and with other counries. Instgrad the communists and nationalists immediately went at each other until the commies won. thereafter, we have seen the Chinese government and its bully boys treat the Chinese people just about as badly as the Japs did,plus occupying and brutalizing Tibet and the non-Chinese country we used to call Sinkiang.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

m, Chicago, Il — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:22:32 GMT

Confucius said:
What is wisdom? To appreciate people!
What is human dignity? To love people!

While I deeply respect the Master, I am sorry to say I do not have the power to love those who are destroying the American Dream and robbing everyone else along the way. It is my hope that those who have the power to encourage change, will. It was the folly of the Romans, and most every other great civilization, to not realize soon enough that a watershed moment was upon them.

Wake up America and recognize your plight. If you don’t change now, you never will.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

joe — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:24:38 GMT

i am chinese. my point of view is that the uproar in china is a response to the bias and arrogance in some west media. this is how i look at the issue from where i am and for what i am and for what i know about tibet. another cause behind the uproar is that we chinese people honor the honor of holding olymics for the international community and take it very personal. most people, believe me, are for things we see we don't have here. but we are against the efforts made and to be made to sabotage olympics. this is something like when a wedding is taking place, let's say congratulations and give money envelopes and send best wishes to the newlyweds and their families. we hate people who crash the door and try to break the wedding party simply because we live in a country we have no right to choose and we love. i believe americans also hate those who disrupt a wedding party, too.

most people in china can sit down or stand up and complain about this and that. we are painfully making progress. and in many issues we ordinary people agree with the west. but we hate to see the country split, we hate to lose jobs, we hate foreign invasion and intervension, we hate arrogance, and we hate misinformation, we hate those who hate what we love, we hate to lose health, in other words, we are just like all the other people in the world. so foreigners say they hate totalitarianism, and see the existence of totalitarianism as a glaring challenge against their faith and a disgrace against their sense of aesthetics, that's all right. probably we see it also the same way. but we are also people who consider our jobs first, consider life security, consider stability, national soveignity, wish our children will live better than us, design and carry out our own spring cleaning, etc. we are not as lucky as your americans because you are blessed with a continent and you are given a chance to start anew without much historical heritage. we are more than 2,000 years old as a society. we are not long in the modern society. we need to take time to look around and see what we can do and improve, and join the international community. we can't do things to please you simply because you hate totalitarianism. we can't because this is not economically and politically pragmatic. every step toward beauty, good things, social justice in america has been attained through difficulty, fight, a civil war for some progress, democracy, etc. years ago chinese needed american help but it was turned down and dr sun yat-san turned to soviet union for help. that opened the door for history to move in another direction. what we have today is partly what america did decades ago. now how can some americans say that you have every right to despise chinese people simply because you hate totalitarianism? manners, gentlemen, manners. how can the media deliberately look at one part of the picture, cut off the other part of the picture and then regard it as the total truth and tell people so? how can someone say 1.3 billion chinese are goons and thugs without causing an uproar and anger? how can a media company endear itself to the chinese people when it issued a statement that shows its bias and arrogance? if you don't get angry because it is doing it to chinese people and because you hate totalitarianism, then what if it is doing it to you? be fair.

in summary, 1.3 billion chinese people have different political views, like anywhere else in the world. that's only natural. there are ugly things in china, just like anywhere else in the world. but let the wedding take place smoothly. there are better ways to make progress toward democracy and peace and prosperity. breaking a wedding party isn't a wise choice. it is indecent and ugly. if you try to save someone from barbarity, show that someone what is nice and civilized. and killing indians and driving them from their lands hundreds of years ago isn't decent, either. if you are lucky enough to reach paradise first, don't despise those who are trying to.

if you are human beings, so are we.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Anthony, Vancouver, Canada — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:26:26 GMT

I bet most of the commentators who express their opinions here have never been to Tibet or China, India, Nepal where this discussion centers. They should stand on the ground and talk to the people concerned in Lhasa, Dharmsala, Katmandu and Ladakh before issuing their uninformed, western media based, opinions regarding Tibetans or any other foreign issues.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Big Dude — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:51:30 GMT

What do you expect a Communist government to do? Give you freedom? Come on! They will BTK anyone got in their way including press,religion,business,foreigner...etc.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

no one — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 05:58:22 GMT

how could i say when i read this? i had another story to tell. my colleagues and friends either chinese or americans had no such limits in the past month. this is what is so called media distortion. ok. i know in your dictionary communist=terrorist. whatever i say, you won't believe me. Such story is more attractive than truth. I just want to tell one truth. China has 1.4 billion people including 56 ethnic groups. China is not like any other country in the world.Now chinese people is getting better and they are satisfied to the communist party's lead even with mass unsolved issues. I hope western society give us more constructive advice rather than rude criticism and such media distortion. Those media distortion can only generate hate. Dose some western people really want to be the 1.4 billion people's enemy? I don't think it's good idea. a stable and peaceful china is better for the world.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Gordon Heck, Oxnard, CA — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:00:13 GMT

I can only surmise that most of the people spewing their comments here have never been to China, likely most have never been out of the Country.
Any thought to how our Country would act if California no longer wanted to be part of the USA?
China is far from perfect, but it works. There are over a billion people who here, most uneducated and livng in essentially poverty. These are not the factory workers, these are the farmers.
As for the slave labor comments, this year a new labor law went into effect, overtime pay for hours over eight per day and health insurance paid by them employer. I will admit that the wages are low, but also is the cost of living.
I'm currently in Beijing, traveling here four to six times a year. Just had dinner, beef and noodles, a vegtable dish, tea and a beer. Total damage was 4 dollars.
I'm not defending China, just trying to give some insight to the reality of the Country.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Michele Flock — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:01:36 GMT

After Tianangmien there was no western uproar because Deng Shao Ping haddled the affair well. On the otherhand there are no videos of student being crushed by tanks, soldiers shooting women and children in their kitchens overlooking the area, officers shooting doctors and nurses nor the screams of the parents being shoot in the back. Yet, this time the upraoar is greater because of the facististic propergander under Hu Jintao and Wen Jen Bao. Zhu Ren Ji hwrere are you?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Trevor Wong — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:13:57 GMT

You all like to speak. How many of you have walk into the east. How many years of history that you might know about China. I am in doubt.

Thanks,
Malaysian Chinese

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Matt, San Diego, California — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:22:30 GMT

The Chinese Gov has not changed, still the Commi state that it is. Just because you have tall buildings in Shanghai is just a face to cover all the inhumanity. Tibet is small, but everyone nation has a right to be independent, China moves in there and expects them to bow down? PLEASE! I hope that China's image will suffer greatly after this Olympic, so they will know what INternational (not western), international pressure is! No nation's human rights record is pristine ...but at least I can say what I want without Chairman Mao's red guards killing me. And remember...Berkeley is a Commi town anyways, didn't they try to shut down a Marine Recruitment center? hahaha

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

GZ, Beijing, China — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:34:07 GMT

Before you guys come into China and Tibet, you get a conclusion of human rights situation in China.I just want to ask,have you been to China? or you just judge according to those medias with a strong bias? As a common chinese girl, I would like to say responsibly,common Tibet people are living very well because I have been there before. Please differentiate common Tibet people with refuge government leaded by Dalai lama who is a largest serf owner around the world.

Anyway, welcome to China and also Tibet, judge by your own mind!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Alexis, Seattle, Washington — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 06:45:14 GMT

Though many have clearly shown that they do not support China and that the things they are doing in Tibet is inhumane, most do not know the history behind these two nations.

In the 1950s, Tibet was a poor country, along with China (due to the Cultural Revolution). Unfortunately, Tibet did not export anything and many were uneducated. On top of that, Tibet was a theocracy, ruled by their religion. The Dalai Lama, their ruler, was chosen through a ‘sacred’ process.

After China took over, they started to pour funds into Tibet. Though Tibet did not produce nor did they sell anything, the conditions got better. In 2007, the Dalai Lama had told the Tibetan People (in an interview on a private television channel) “not to think in terms of history and to accept Tibet as a part of China.”

Now, in 2008, protests against China have flared up again and what do we do? Call China rude names. The Beijing Olympics of 2008 is a great thing and the only thing that would come out of not watching it would be having missed the entire thing. What else would happen? The rest of the world will be watching, along with many Americans. Personally, I will be watching the games. The fact that China is trying to keep the protests down doesn’t make them a bad nation. After all, China has done many things for Tibet and I do believe that they are a wonderful, growing nation.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Ravi, India — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 07:46:05 GMT

Desolate moutainous regions with or without resources still qualify as countries. So Jim from Phoenix, AZ get off your high horse. Just because you are lucky to live in a country like the USA, don't have an arrogant attitude. It is our collective responsibility as global citizens to safeguard the rights of others and help them.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

mani — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 08:05:25 GMT

you guys, China is not in 1960S, today is 2008!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

welcometo china beijing china — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 08:22:35 GMT

a china proverb is "what you hear is false,only what you see is true".most of you dont come to china at all,what you know about china are almost from your goverment,tv,movie, many things here are great different from your knowledges. maybe you never have the chance to visit china,you are only a frog in the well, you never cant jump out. dont think all other people are stupid and only you are the genius, 你比谁强？
china have 130 millions people, can your goverment or you do better than china goverment??

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

jane doe — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 08:44:12 GMT

Yes America is a lovely place to live, is full of opportunities, and beautiful things. If you don't take into account how big a percentage of the population live below the poverty line, are on welfare, or can't afford medical insurance. Fabulous country. Thank god I have those whipped cream topped coffees to comfort me. Perhaps you should spend less time at Starbucks and more at a bookshop. Actually, because it's America you can actualy go to a bookshop with its very own Starbucks.

But then again Larry from Florida, wasn't it Florida who gave us Bush in the first place? Hasn't he just been a gift that keeps on giving, akin to herpes?

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Steven, Hong Kong — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:24:00 GMT

To Larry FL. Unfortunately, Rob from Washington does have a point. While it is true that China has a poor human rights record, it is also true that the US has gone backwards in our own civil and human rights record in the past 7 years, particularly with the way we treat non-whites and non-Americans.

As to living overseas, I have been living overseas for 14 years. This has given me true appreciation of just what we enjoy in the US, in both the positive and negative aspects.

One thing I've noticed in the past several years is that it is getting to where I cannot return to the States without being treated as a traitor to the people by immigrations. As a "white American", I really hate to think about what non-white or naturalized Americans have to put up with.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Greg lauderdale — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:44:32 GMT

China will have no trouble filling its arenas and venues for the Olympics. They will just have the Peoples Police go on the streets and fill them. I know, I lived in China for 5 years.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tom, VA — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:01:34 GMT

All american media and politicians can talk about is how bad other countryies are. Look at your own country. What's freedom of speech? Bunch of teenage girls beating up each other? And your elections, candidates attacking each other rather than proving what they can do to lead this country to a better place? American government is the only one that still thinks they are world #1. Others are laughing!!! Do you blame them? Who should you believe? All governments are corrupted. Yours is the worst!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jay, Singapore — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:38:25 GMT

The people who are 'protesting' China in regards to Tibet right now are forgetting a few things. Namely:
1: There are better ways of getting the message to the Chinese government.

2: Ripping on the Olympics is also ripping on the athletes who go to compete, regardless of politics, for the love of sport.

3: Most importantly. When the Olympics are over, and you bleeding hearts look for the new cause du jour, China will still be there. Tibet will still be under China. And whatever went wrong with the Olympics will be visited upon the Tibetans a hundredfold.

Small suggestion to the non Tibetan Tibet protesters, 'protesting' from the safety of your own country does not a martyr make, so please book your ticket to China,and head to Tien An Men square to do so. Your accomodations will be handled by the Chinese police. Don't plan on coming back anytime soon.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

DSB — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:48:49 GMT

China is a beautiful country.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Jackfield,Tokyo — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:13:52 GMT

Were you Chinese,you would understand the anger and disappointment to the Wersten. Whatever how powerful it had been, the old country was invaded for the pretext of "free trade" by Britain in 1840, and not regained its dignity until 1949, when the PRC was founded. Chinese people say it, and they believe so. Many Chinese young people once admired the belief of the United States, considering it the sample of free world. Yet the belief was ruined by Americans themselves---the boming of Chinese embassy in Belgrade in 1999. From then on, Chinese view with different views to the outside world, and a generation of Chinese young people, I am afraid to say so, turns their back to the US. Almost 10 years later, when the bombing has faded from their memory,they find they are not welcomed by the Western just because of an issue of ther own---at least most Chinese people think so---their anger is understandable. Let me put it this way: if you know little about the history is one country, then learn and think with the mouth shut.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

W. Fleissner, Chattanooga, TN — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:22:32 GMT

It's really simple, Americans. Just don't watch the Olympics on TV. You don't have to march, protest, raise your voice, or even parse out the subtle rights and wrongs. (There are always subtle rights and wrongs, no matter how easy it is to point fingers.) What could be amiss with just keeping your televisions turned off during that time? Play with your kids, take your wife out for a romantic stroll, call up an old friend, learn a new hobby. Sports are way overemphasized in our society anyway. Look at what we pay professional athletes (and I include college athletes in that category)! Consider the benefit professional athletes provide to society -- ever thought about that? Pretty slim. It's nice that people get together and play sports, but why do we have to worship them as gods? Do your own private boycott of the Olympics with your thumb on the remote control, and that way nobody gets hurt and the message gets across to the only people who can really effect change -- the folks with the bags 'o bucks.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Tony — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:26:20 GMT

As an educated Chinese who had lived in America for nearly 10 years, I can understand the West's concern about the "Human Rights". However, I am just curious why the West weren't so aware of "Human Rights" when they were robbing China in the 19th century?

How many of you have actually been to Tibet and seen the so called opression imposed by the Communists?

Also I am angered by the way the Western media are portraying China. The Communists did some ugly deeds in the past, and although state run media and history textbooks don't mention them, I bet you would be very surprised at how many Chinese (especially the young Chinese) are aware of them. The young Chinese are not brainwashed. There is a lot of propaganda in Chinese History and Political textbooks, but few Chinese students ever pay much attention to these subjects.

However, in these recent events in Tibet, there seems to be no hard evidence to prove that there has been a crackdown in Tibet. First of all, the government agency facing the rioters were the police (armed, but still police). If the government really wanted an effective and efficient crackdown, they would have sent in the PLA. And if President Hu really wanted a crackdown, he would not have hesitated. (His successful crackdown in Tibet in 1989 brought him a position in the Central Government in Beijing.)

As I see it, the Western media are disgustingly prejudiced about China. Of course, China is not perfect, and there is much that China has to learn from the West. However, by attempting to sabotage the Torch Relay in the name of "Human Rights" and criticizing China over made-up material is no effective method to "educate" China.

I do not believe the West is showing proper respect for China. Learn to respect an old civilization that's completely different from you.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

YOO — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 12:48:53 GMT

Who really been to China? Who really understand China? They continue to develop and progress, much more! Public opinion is really terrible! It undermines the stability of the entire world! Perhaps we are a plaything of politicians!

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

wei fong,bj,ch — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:09:28 GMT

so interesting, some chinese people's comments won't appear here,so they have to submit at other place to let more people see their reply to this issue, how wonderful free speech here you guys have. awesome great human rights, mainly open to those who basically agree to your opinion. i suggest those people who leave very cynical messages on this board to read and learn more about chinese and tibet history, and their culture, sometimes, it is smarter to listen to both sides, and make a judgement more impersonal (though impossible).even better come to china, talk to regular people, and learn some chinese,read some chinese old books, then you may have the better voice to this issue. better check this link too
http://www.bestcyrano.org/cyrano/?p=507
i don;t want to beautify the chinese government, as i don't think it is a perfect government,just like any other government in this terrible world.also when you guys are talking about dalai lama is the most peaceful person in the world, see the conflicts inside his government in exile, the dalai lama and Dorje Shugden, and check the youtube video by swiss tv.

about the vanishing chinese triditional culture. thanks to you all, your great america, england,japan,france .... your spoliating in last few century( after 1840) made chinese people think almost everything from their culture was bad and caused the weakness and sufferings. that also can be considered as one main reason why chinese culture really lose the characters,and the global economy also changes whole china, not only because of this bad government.

oh, also i worry maybe people can't see my comment, as like i said it may not appear, if it does show here, i am glad someone has the respect to some different voice to this relative subject.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Peter — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:22:18 GMT

When Chinese were silent, you guys said we have no speech. When the Chinese were pushed to the brink and was silent no more, you guys said we are brainwashed commies. Such western hyprocrisy can only come from holier than thou Cold War thinking fostered by its own media. Academics are much more realistic and balanced. I suggest you guys read those instead.
The last time China had bended under International pressure was in the early 1900's. It then ended a dynasty and fell to chaos, invasion, and civil war. That piece of history is still fresh in the mind of the older generations and is taught to the younger generations of Chinese. You guys in the West may have forgotten, but we haven't.
Don't ignore your own nationalism (post 911) and shove your morale highground in our face as well. The two mid 1800's Opium Wars in which your morality and sense of nationalism had caused to China wasn't forgotten either.
The Chinese will take care of their own government without the "active help" from the West (it has done so many times in the past). The western views here will only serve to unite the Chinese in and out of PRC China to maintain their political system longer. In the end, morality doesn't count as much as comprehensive national strength. And those who are idealistic will rude awakening such as in 2010 in Canada and 2012 in London and beyond. Oh yeah, if you guys support Tibetan exiles, you might as well remember natives that used to own the lands that you are on. Tibet been part of China in the 1600's while lands in the "New World" weren't colonized until the 1700's. How their human rights were trampled under the name of civility and progress and how they were genocided against.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Daniel,Singapore — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:42:27 GMT

I am so dissapointed at CNN. I am a reporter, and I konw the rule---I express my free speech by watching by myself,composing the story by selecting what I saw. That is to say, WATCHING is the first, COMPOSING is the second. That's the moral obligation of a reporter. I can't understant why CNN slandered a country in their stories---if they are stories.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

Sam, Boulder, CO — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:34:01 GMT

I think the Chinese government loves all this upset. The very few people in power don't suffer the "loss of face" that the average Chinese people do because they have a broader perspective on reality. However, the Communist Party relishes any excuse to fuel the fires of fanatical nationalism, which is pretty much the only emotional outlet the masses are allowed in China.

Mood turns ugly in Beijing

George Lee, Singapore — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 14:37:31 GMT

All this "pro-Tibet" posturing is just racism against the Chinese at its very worst. Most here know nothing about Tibet or China, nor do they even speak Tibetan or Chinese, yet they are so quick to point fingers and go into diatribes against an entire race and civilization at the drop of a hat. Now I am NOT a fan of the CCP either, but at least I have Chinese ancestry, I know the langauge, and my understanding of the culture and political affairs extends far deeper than any of you here. I disagree with many aspects of their policies, but I won't jump on this Tibetan nonsense either. You people remind me of the bigoted ugly Americans I met while I was in college in the US, calling me racist names and constantly asking me to "go back to China!", and yelling incessantly at my white girlfriend and me when we were off campus and shopping downtown. I hope the newly empowered Chinese people show you where you can all take your hatred, and I dare any of you here to go to Beijing and tell the Chinese people what you think of them, their race and their heritage!