Why Do Americans Perceive China as 'Unfree' While Ignoring Their Own System's Flaws?

 

The differences between the USSR, USA, and China in their definitions of freedom and governance stem from distinct ideological and cultural foundations.

The USSR and USA: An Ideological Divide

The Cold War rivalry between the Soviet Union and the United States was fundamentally ideological. Each nation’s understanding of freedom was deeply rooted in its political and ideological systems.

The Soviet Union prioritized control and collective ideology over individual liberty. It viewed free speech and personal freedom as threats to the stability and unity of the community. This perspective extended to strict restrictions on civilian life, including preventing Soviet citizens from traveling to the West, accessing foreign media, or even welcoming outsiders into the country. These measures were designed to suppress Western influence and maintain ideological purity.

In contrast, the United States celebrated free speech, individualism, and personal liberties, making these ideals cornerstones of its democratic system. The ideological clash was, therefore, a battle between two worldviews: rigid collectivism versus liberal individualism.

China and USA: A Cultural Difference

The dynamic between China and the United States, on the other hand, is less about ideology and more about culture. Chinese society defines freedom through its unique cultural heritage, which has evolved over 5,000 years of civilization.

In Chinese culture, respect for authority and elders is deeply ingrained. This cultural value discourages open criticism of leaders, not because of Communist ideology but because questioning authority is seen as disrespectful and disruptive to societal harmony. Leaders are trusted to guide the nation, and their decisions are viewed as being made in the best interest of the collective.

For example, while Mao Zedong’s policies, such as the Great Leap Forward, led to significant hardships, Chinese cultural narratives often focus on his role in navigating the nation through adversity. This cultural perspective emphasizes collective well-being over individual grievances, reinforcing a belief that societal happiness leads to personal contentment.

Modern China: A Blend of Tradition and Progress

China’s governance reflects its cultural roots rather than ideological rigidity. Worker ownership in companies, collective prosperity initiatives, and social programs are modern adaptations of its deeply rooted communal values.

While the West often views the absence of elections in China as a lack of freedom, the Chinese see it differently. They believe leaders are chosen to guide them wisely, much like emperors did for nearly 4,800 years of their history. Criticizing leaders like Xi Jinping is considered a discourteous act that diminishes respect and trust. Xi is often perceived as a paternal figure, similar to how past leaders like Deng Xiaoping were affectionately referred to as "Honorable Father."

Despite these differences, modern China operates as a global participant, allowing travel, trade, and even access to VPNs. Its system is not built on rigid ideology but on a cultural framework that aligns with its historical values and societal needs.

Conclusion

The key distinction between the USSR, USA, and China lies in the foundation of their governance systems. While the USSR and USA clashed over ideological principles, China’s governance stems from its unique cultural heritage. For China, freedom is defined not by elections or individual rights but by collective well-being, trust in leadership, and respect for tradition.

Understanding these differences is essential to appreciating how nations define freedom and success on their own terms. While Western perspectives often judge other systems through the lens of individualism, China's cultural approach emphasizes harmony and collective prosperity. This divergence highlights the complexity of global perspectives on governance, freedom, and societal values.

Frequentyl Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does China’s view of freedom differ from Western ideals?

China values collective prosperity and respect for authority over individual rights, contrasting with the Western focus on personal freedoms and democracy.

Why did the Soviet Union suppress individual liberties, and how does it contrast with the USA?

The Soviet Union saw individual freedoms as threats to stability, while the USA valued personal liberties and free speech as key to democracy.

What are the main differences in how the USSR, USA, and China define freedom?

The USSR focused on collective control over individual liberty, while the USA emphasized individualism and free speech. China defines freedom through respect for authority and societal harmony, prioritizing collective well-being over personal rights.