China Rises

China, the oldest civilization on earth, is in the midst of an awe-inspiring period of rebirth. The nation is currently the scene of the most extraordinary economic, social and political transformation of our time. But such rapid progress has a downside, and China is presently faced with an enormous population, a strained environment, and an unequal distribution of wealth and poverty.

Combining the finest documentary talent of CBC, the New York Times and other broadcast partners, CHINA RISING is a special CBC co-production which takes viewers inside this vibrant, fascinating nation during what may prove to be the most important period in its history. Airing over two nights, China Rises explores four themes, each of them featuring compelling first-hand accounts of the triumphs and disappointments of the people who make up China's diverse population. - source: canadian broadcasting corporation


The following two questions are in relation to CBC's China Rises Video

3. What character/person in the show would you most like to meet and have dinner with in China, and why?

I would enjoy having dinner with Ai Weiwei, the Artist who is building the stadium for the 2008 Olympics. This man seemed very intriguing the way he was expressing himself, both with his company (recall the 4 letter acronym), and through his creative artwork. He seems to be very powerful, but in a reserved and entrepreneuring way. I feel a connection with him, and believe the way he is showing his skepticism towards authority is constructive, conducting himself it in an expressive way (which seems to be unlike most Chinese). Due to the fact that his father was a leader, you could feel his tension and aggression towards leading a reform. I was impressed with the fact that he was able to stand out and be imaginative in a society that has condemned such individualistic characteristics for a long time. I believe it will be individuals like Ai Weiwei, which will help provide some power back to the people, and let China rise to their full potential.

5. When you see poor uneducated people in Chinese factories create the things you and I buy on the cheap at Wal-Mart, Ride Aid or Target, it may make you feel sad and/or angry and/or disillusioned. If so, how do or will you reconcile those feelings with your purchases of such products? What plans do you have to change your purchasing habits, if any? Do you help or hurt these workers by purchasing such prodcuts?

I am looking forward to viewing the Chinese factories as it will be a realization to all of us how well off we are in the US, even if you’re in the lower class. At first, I think about not purchasing these products as it only creates a higher demand for poor uneducated workers in China. At the same time the movie claimed that these people would otherwise be struggling, eating noodles in the hills of Loess Plateau if these workers had not migrated to work at the factories. Still, does this really justify us buying these products?

Personally, I do not believe it is fully justified nor do I believe that we fully understand the full facts on this matter. This is why it will be an eye-opener to view a factory in person. I believe if the living conditions were improved and these factory workers were fed, and fully compensated than I would not think twice about purchasing their products. I thought it was great that Zhang Yue, the CEO of Broad Air Conditioning was able to create a business that was more sustainable, which grew healthy organic food for their workers, and helped the employees live a healthier life. After all, what is the point of having wealth, if you are not healthy or happy with your life?

In contrast, looking at a business like Zongshan’s motorcycle factory, the workers seemed unhappy as the company was run like a military installment. Some people flourish under this structured environment, yet this organization style provides little room for individuality or inventiveness within a company, which is imperative for a business’s growth. Repressing rights and originality will lead to unhappy, less productive workers and over time anarchy. Additionally, it seemed that many of these factories are forgetting about their environment in their rush to build a middle class and become a more wealthy China.

As the past may give China confidence in the future, perhaps factories and the government should take a step back and recognize if precautions are not taken now regarding their environmental degradation, it will probably have devastating consequences for the next billion Chinese. As the movie pointed out, is it ethical that your country cares more about having economic success and wealth than protecting the health and lifestyles of the majority of its people?