里约邮票纪念币如何卖:'China century'? Too early to rush the conclu...

来源:百度文库 编辑:九乡新闻网 时间:2024/05/04 18:34:20

'China century'? Too early to rush the conclusion !


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A debate Friday on whether the 21st century will be a "China century" has again highlighted a popular concern  among many Western scholars that China will take a hegemony in the international arena, an imposed identity that can lead China off the track of sustainable development and a peaceful rise.  

The latest eye-catching addition to this topic was held by four celebrity thinkers. At the bi-annual Munk Debates in Toronto, Chinese economist Li Daokui and British historian Niall Ferguson represented the yes camp, whereas former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and Time magazine's editor-at-large Fareed Zakaria stood for the no side.


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As the debate closed, a poll was conducted among the 2,700 audience members in the debate room. Kissinger and Zakaria won by gaining 62 percent of support.

At present, what is certain is that this century no longer belongs solely to the US. China's rise is not an accident – it is accompanied by the rise of a series of emerging economies on different continents. The quest to obtain greater power of discourse in international organizations increasingly indicates a multi-polar world.

In the view of many, including Kissinger, a "China century" means China takes a hegemony. In such circumstances, "Will the 21st century belong to China" appears as a false proposition, as the 21st century is bound to see diverse forces cooperate and wrangle with each other. No one will simply claim to see the century as belonging to itself – the era of a single country's dominance is over.  

Martin Jacques, author of When China Rules the World, provides another perspective to view the "China century." According to him, Great Britain taught the world how to produce in the 19th century, the US demonstrated how to consume in the 20th century; and if China is to lead in the 21st century, it must show the world how to develop sustainablly.


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Finding a sustainable way to live and produce is crucial for the human race, and is especially urgent for China. However, this period is set to be peaceful. The historical example where one hegemony enjoys overwhelming resources and an ultra-fast pace of growth is out of touch today.

Mankind is now forced to transcend national borders and jointly tackle challenges to ensure sustainable growth and global survival. The 21st century belongs to everyone that contributes toward tackling the world's problems.

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There are many predictions about the nation's future. While some expect the " China century," others affirm that a "China collapse" is approaching.

The Chinese should not overly worry about these predictions and focus instead on domestic issues. After all, a nation's stature depends on its capacity to address domestic challenges and boost growth at home.

It's understandable for people in this country to yearn for a "China century." But we must remain aware  that it will require arduous efforts before we achieve stability, prosperity and justice.

Perhaps it will not take a century to discover to whom this century belongs.