While the Author might believe some of the assertions made, I hardly think that applies to those who've tasted freedom.
Yes it could be argued that democracy is the worst form of government, but it is still better than the rest.
China is moving toward more personal freedom not less, given it understands what caused the revolution!
Russia is full of unrest and people desperate to leave.
Which probably includes those with the greatest intellects.
Russia has tried and already failed to conscript that intellectual acumen, and as a republic, holding onto annexed communities, needed slavery, to make its unworkable system work.
Simply put, China already embraces elections at the local government level, and with ongoing wealth growth and creation, will need to embrace more of the same further up the administration ladder.
Both Russia and China are cesspool of seething unrest, and the Arab spring is, one could venture, far from over.
Which probably highlights just how fanciful and improbable this backward reminiscing article really is?
Rhrosty.

I think that "largely" we all have reason to hate, but that also we all have reason to "Love."

I was heartened by the news that there is to be an "easing" of certain aspects of both the one child and work camp policies and hope to hear more of an encouraging nature.

I would add that it reminds me of what I have been led to believe is the old Greek translation of the word Sin, as distinct from others, which is perhaps more accurately expressed as:

" ... to miss the point ..."

In that regard, on reflective analysis and with the benefit of hindsight, perhaps it may be true to say that certain practices are indeed, Self Limiting.

Whilst gathering the insights of others no doubt has a certain value, so too does more "light bulb" moments of one's own.

I increasingly get the idea that all of those who "climb the mountain" of material power and influence in some ways face the same challenges as all of those who have come before us.

..

As for the West, as long as they continue to practice and preach:

"Do as we say and not as we do"

then no doubt there will always be trouble.