[quote=harvey][quote=ocrenter]Quite trying to compare the two.

One system actually allows for you to say what you just said.

Under the other system you would be hearing a knock on the door by now.[/quote]

Your post was about “brainwashing” and how it is used to rationalize the conquest of other countries.

And on that subject I absolutely will compare “the two:” Both the US and China have a lot of blood on their hands.

One of the defining themes of American history is the use of military force to gain territory and resources. China’s annexation of Tibet is only comparable to maybe one of our smaller wars that most Americans today never even know about.

As for personal freedoms, yeah we’ve got China beat by a longshot on that one. But I still don’t see the US giving California back to Mexico anytime soon.[/quote]

Personal freedom and protection of basic rights including speech is huge when you make these comparisons.

These freedoms allow for opposition to the policies you are complaining about.

Of course the Iraq war was unjust and wrong, and most Americans would agree this was a major blunder. This would not happen in China, where discussions of prior errors and mistakes are strictly prohibited. Remember that if you ever try to type in June 4th on Bidu in China.

Of course large amount of American land came under control through force and underhanded dealings, but can you imagine the same methodology employed by an authoritarian country without opposing viewpoints operating under the premise that the world has done it wrong and regional hegemony is the only way to right that wrong?

America is by no means innocent and altruistic, but I would simply caution about your fanboy crush on China.