I tried not to get too involved in any politics in general, but it looks like it is inevitable given that an article on a technology blog can grow into a heated political discussion.
I was a friend's place last Friday when I picked up a book 請用文明來說服我 which is a collection of essays by 龍應台. The essays were all based on discussions about Taiwan, China and democracy, started by an open letter published by the author directed to the leader of PRC, after the magazine 冰點 was temporarily suspended by the government. The author also published some articles which were both criticized by people in Taiwan and people in Mainland China. Those who favored Taiwan independence accused her of not considering feelings of native Taiwanese, while those in Mainland China considered her as a supported of the independence movement.
This inspired me to consider my position on this issue. Personally I oppose Taiwan independence, but I respect Taiwanese people's right on this. What is considered a nation anyways? The concept of border blurs day by day with the globalization and flattening of the world. Just take continental Europe as an example, people can travel freely and live or work anywhere. Same with the race. Cross racial marriage is more and more common, and I believe after a couple generations a lot of people will forget where their "ancestors" are originally from. This is common among the second or third generations of immigrants in US. As for language and history, it is clear that people from both regions share the same traditions and culture. So what exactly is standing in the way between Taiwan and Mainland China? I think one of the article in the book gives a very good point, "The major force against unification among Taiwanese people today is the difference in government system".
With optimism, I believe the line between the two different governments will eventually go away, with China fully embrace the democratic system. Maybe 10 years, maybe 20, maybe 50. When that day comes, people will find it absurd when they look back at the heated discussions in this era.
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I disagree. Differences in governance did not disuade East and West Germany from uniting. Difference in governance also did not disuade European countries, some very socialist and some moderately capitalist, to form the EU.
Unfortunately, I see the effects as results of political manipulation. Taking Taiwan as an example, it's not just Taiwan vs PRC, but also North vs South. That type of division, I believe, roots in media and what politicians do to gain votes of their constituents.
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