Criticism may be constructive for China
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In recent years, China has become the center of discussion and debate, with different voices around the world offering their opinions.
Among the voices, there's high praise, even flattery, but also sharp-tongued criticism. China embraces the praise while regarding the criticism with shame and aggression.
Certainly, some critics may have strategic motives behind their remarks, such as the "China threat theory," and some media outlets, such as Voice of America (VOA), have their slants. But there are those voices that seem objective, so it would serve China well not to categorically reject all criticism.
China draws the world's attention because of its rising influence. Hot global issues cannot be coordinated or settled without China. Whether it's the world's financial crisis, rumors of opaque military expenditures, or influence over North Korea, China has never before been in such deep contact with the world, and subsequently, China has never received so much criticism.
Yet criticism is good.
Criticism affirms China's status and influence at the international stage. Among the nations of the world, the United States receives the most criticism. This is because America is a superpower and has huge impact on global politics and the world economy. From here on, as China's power and influence rises, so will the criticism.
Some say China was defeated a century ago, famished 50 years ago, and now it's constantly criticized. But suppose China remained closed; or the whole nation mired in poverty, there would be no criticisms. If the Chinese people lacked food, they'd have no time to listen or concern themselves with criticism. But with current growing national strength and wealth, Chinese people have grown complacent and are embarrassed to receive so much criticism. However, they must keep in mind that greater criticism means China is emerging into the world in a peaceful manner.
This process is similar to a newly married woman – the difficulties of marriage soon supplant the initial romance. From another aspect, criticism is good because it shows the relationship isn't as stiff as a century ago – when China was being insulted by other nations. Now it's a competitive and cooperative relationship. The criticism nowadays is the expression of different opinions, which is understandable.
The Chinese people must understand why we are criticized, and then analyze whether it's reasonable. Just as when any individuals face criticism. At first, they react poorly and defensively, but eventually, as they mature, they see the criticism in a more rational manner, and accept the accurate criticism and learn from it, while ignoring invalid criticism.
Wang Chong is an observer of current issues.
(The post was first published in Chinese and translated by Jessica Zhang.)
