"Cultures that cannot distinguish between illusion and reality die. The dying gasps of all empires, from the Aztecs to the ancient Romans to the French monarchy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire, have been characterized by a disconnect between the elites and reality. The elites were blinded by absurd fantasies of omnipotence and power that doomed their civilizations."
(Chris Hedges: "Empire of Illusion" )
I think that this is one of the major differences between the two powers currently vying for dominance : whereas large parts of America (not only the stupid masses, but also the elites!) are obsessed by all kinds of illusions (be they religious, economic or political), the Chinese are 100 per cent pragmatists and realists. Although I do not like the Chinese way of life and government, I cannot help but admire this practical common sense.
Maybe this difference will turn out to be decisive?
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It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that ones own opinions are absolute truth while those with opposing opinions are deluded. In particular, I don’t think the masses are stupid. From my perspective the “elites” are represented by our left leaning media outlets, and yes, they seem to have illusions.
I too admire the Chinese in a lot of ways. They have practical ideas, and they employ State Capitalism.
WilliamFleming
Level 8
Oct 14, 2019
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