Mr. Johnson's Taking On Constitutional Reform

 I think there's a danger in thinking that 1) all people are equals and thereby entitled to full respect, 2) the rule of law is a necessary condition for justice, and 3) democracy is a natural longing of mankind--that these three assumptions are given descriptions of one's condition in nature; though indeed these may be what he or she wishes to be the case in his life.  For we know that individuals who take these as truths may in the course of one's lifetime have to die for believing them.

There is yet another assumption that we should grant as a prima facie truth:  we are born into a particular culture and are indeed not just a member of the human species but a Englishman, an American or a Chinese.  Now, the Chinese contend there are certain responsibilities that accrue to our being members of a particular culture.  These come forth in the Chinese disagreements with the Australians, as of late. 

For the Chinese government contends, as Chinese, we ought to serve the interests of our native land.  So that, if in business, we ought to be prosperous, even if it be as a result of accepting monetary subsidies from  the government to realize that prosperity.   

Now, as Americans, we don't recognize this as a presumptive given.  Certainly not.  Then, how should our diplomats talk with the Chinese whenever in our discussions with them they seek to convince us?  Or do we walk away and vow to limit our trade with them, if we continue to trade with them at all?

Clearly, we both--Chinese and American--look to trade with our trading partners to better our lives.  We want product-A; they produce product-A in which we have short supply, so we want to trade with them, if feasible.

But that is just the point.  When I was in China, in Beijing, talking with Chinese people I looked for common ground, in which we both share an interest and I was ready to make my point.  I found there was persecution of Christians; and sought in the Christian life some quality that the Chinese respected and could find of use of service to the government.  It was that a Christian Chinese was a good worker and known not be a slouch.  So, he was of value to the state.

I understand there are over 140 million Christians in China, today.