Whither China? Part II

Not that they weren't already, but I suspect articles like this will be even more common following the completion of the Olympics: "China's Bright Past Belies a Hazy Future" (WSJ). Another article in the same paper ends on this note:

"These have been a good Games, very good for China," said Pei Yuekai, the owner of a corner grocer in downtown Beijing. Mr. Pei had been watching the Games throughout the day on a small television in his store and had thrilled at the Games -- not just the Chinese victories but the sheer excitement of hosting people from so many countries. His son has kept a diary and has plastered his rooms with flags from around the world. "He now realizes how big the world is."

Of course, to China's leaders, that can be both a good and bad thing.