"Cultural evolution: a look at Mao; Chinese lift the shroud from legacy of once-dominant figure" by Patricia Wen, Globe Staff | August 18, 2008
BEIJING - Curators of the exhibit said they seek to provoke discussion on one of the most combustible topics in China today: What is the legacy of Mao? Although China's Communist Party founder died nearly 32 years ago, he remains a polarizing figure in this city where capitalism coexists with authoritarian rule.
Aaah, the world is becoming like AmeriKa!!!
Given the government's sensitivity to Mao's image, it may be some time before a full public discussion about his legacy happens. Though the government tolerates the kitschy Mao ashtrays and watches in tourists shops, it sporadically cracks down on potentially disparaging images.
You mean, like the kids with anti-Bush shirts are told to remove them, or the people who are yanked out of public events because of anti-Bush signs or bumper stickers?
Is that the kind of crackdown the shit MSM was referring to here?
Government critics say it is because Mao continues to have an emotional power among the populace, and today's ruling party needs to honor the leader to justify its own totalitarian rule.
--more--"Now that last bit sure sounds like AmeriKa!!!!
