The Details of Democracy

The whole book is made up of short essays and short stories. It was originally the author’s submissions to a newspaper column, Southern People Weekly. Thinking about what happened to the Southern Media Group and its current state, compared with its peak 15 years ago, really makes one sigh. These pieces were later collected into this book. Because of that, its discussion of any single topic or story is not particularly deep or detailed. Compared with Lin Da’s A Close Look at America, it falls far short. Still, I recommend every citizen, especially Chinese people interested in civic movements, to read it. The barrier to reading is very low, and it is quite direct and interesting. The book was published in 2009, and mainly consists of stories written between 2001 and 2008. The situation both inside and outside China has changed greatly over the past 15 years, so some parts may be outdated or unrealistic. But that does not affect its value for reading today. Back then people could still reflect and speak. Now everyone is already silent with fear. Especially recently, in January 2024, TW also held its election, making “minzhu” once again something people are interested in and reflecting on. Although the current situation may be getting farther and farther away from what the author hoped for, I just hope everyone can stay safe. When the world changes, perhaps these early public figures can still shine and contribute. In short: go read it, but do not speak.

There are really many sharp lines and ironic contrasts.

“Democracy” without freedom will eventually pupate into totalitarianism wearing the face of populism.

The book could still compare and reflect on WG and the three years. You can imagine how much looser publishing review and speech control were 15 years ago.

If all the monsters are locked tightly in a box without room to breathe, public opinion instead becomes like a pressure cooker that keeps heating up with no outlet, slowly gathering more and more dangerous pressure.

The system on the China server is really completely beaten by the US one. At the same time, I also recommend Lin Da’s A Close Look at America series, which gives a better understanding of the operation and history behind the American system.

When public opinion cannot be reflected, the only thing left in the end is violent revolution.

Especially today in 2024, I increasingly understand the importance of freedom.