The central government has attached great importance to modern public governance. But the improvement of its public governance also relies on the proactive participation of people from all walks of life. The maintenance of social stability calls for cooperation by the public, especially from elites.
With a population of 1.3 billion, China is a big power that is experiencing the convergence of various social problems.
No matter how rapidly its economy and society develop, it is inevitable that many grass-roots appeals will not be addressed in the short term. China’s rise is going to be accompanied by complaints among the general public, and even some elites.
Due to the spread of mobile phones, the Internet and microblogs, it is fairly easy for someone to publish criticism and cause a flow of complaints. Similarly, it costs nothing to draw attention by doing something sensational. In comparison, it is one of the hardest projects in the world to mould a society into a stable platform that facilitates life for those pursuing happiness.
Many believe that China will emerge from its period of social transformation in a steady and peaceful manner. But in theory, it is not totally unfeasible that the nation could fall into social turmoil should its public governance fail.
It is the responsibility of every patriot to cooperate with the government’s social management efforts and help craft sustainable social stability.
Int e l l e c tua l s should set an example in this regard. Some argue that their mission is to criticize. Such a perspective is one-sided, and even becomes an excuse for irresponsible elements.
In recent years, a few Chinese have always challenged public governance and national stability. This goes counter to the major goals of China in the 21st century.
Three decades of reform and opening-up has enabled China to become the world’s second largest economy. The nation has set itself the goal of growing into a modern country governed by political democracy. It just needs several more decades to realize this ambition.
China’s intellectuals, especially those with the power of discourse and various social resources, should contribute to social stability, rather than undermine them by encouraging trouble.
China’s national rejuvenation has been a dream for generations of people with lofty ideals. The 21st century may witness the realization of the dream. All of Chinese society must maintain social cohesion by allowing the country to develop.
China is bound to progress as an imperfect nation. It has many problems. Nevertheless, none of them should become an excuse to challenge social governance.