Author: John Chapman

In the late 1980s, China was on the brink of a socio-political transformation, and Cui Jian, often hailed as the “father of Chinese rock,” captured the spirit of this change with his groundbreaking song, “A Piece of Red Cloth.” First performed in 1989, this rock anthem became an iconic symbol of disillusionment, rebellion, and a desire for freedom. The lyrics of “A Piece of Red Cloth” are profoundly metaphorical. The red cloth, which covers the singer’s eyes and even the sky, serves as a powerful image of political and personal blindness. This act of being blinded by the cloth represents…

As China moves further away from the Cultural Revolution era, a few voices within the country remain determined to keep the memories alive, and one of the most prominent among them is Xu Youyu. A scholar and participant in the 1989 Tiananmen protests, Xu has spent years wrestling with China’s official narrative of the Cultural Revolution. His work is not just a quest to preserve history but a call for a political awakening that rejects the erasure of memory. Xu Youyu’s life has been marked by a deep engagement with the Cultural Revolution and its aftermath. Born in Chengdu in…

In 1950, journalist Edward Hunter coined the term “brainwashing” in an article for the Miami Daily News, drawing attention to the psychological manipulation used by China’s Communist Party to control its people. His claim was based on the assertion that Mao Zedong’s regime was employing ancient techniques to transform individuals into mindless followers of the Communist ideology. At the time, the idea of “brainwashing” seemed sensational and exaggerated, but over the years, it evolved into a widely accepted concept. As a participant in an exchange group, I was introduced to a model that appeared harmless at first but revealed disturbing…

In today’s world, many people express deep affection for animals, especially pets, often to the point where it seems as if they value their pets more than other humans. But this raises an important philosophical and ethical question: Are animals truly equal to humans, or is this a perception rooted in our bias, emotions, and perceptions of empathy? In a time when human-animal relationships are more prominent than ever, this question becomes more significant. In this article, we will explore the complex dynamic between humans and animals, and delve into why many feel that animals deserve our love and moral…

In Taiwan, the role of news media has always been a crucial element of its vibrant democratic system. However, in recent years, the landscape of media has undergone dramatic changes, significantly impacted by the evolving relationship between Taiwan and China. The rise of digital platforms, increasing political polarization, and covert Chinese influence have all played pivotal roles in reshaping how information is disseminated and consumed across the island. The value of news in Taiwan has always been rooted in its ability to inform citizens, offer diverse perspectives, and maintain a transparent democratic process. Yet, as Taiwan continues to face growing…

In a move set to revolutionize the way readers access publications, many top magazines and newspapers are now offering subscription services that allow readers to download both current and back issues. This trend is gaining momentum, as it caters to the increasing demand for digital accessibility and flexibility among modern consumers. Traditionally, print publications have had a stronghold in the media industry, with physical copies being the primary way readers could access their favorite content. However, with the rise of the internet and mobile devices, the digital age has brought with it a new wave of convenience and immediacy. Subscription…

In the dead of night on April 22, 2012, Chen Guangcheng, the blind Chinese activist known for his fight against forced abortions and sterilizations, made a daring escape from his extralegal house arrest in Dongshigu Village. For more than a year and a half, Chen had been confined to his home under tight surveillance by Chinese authorities. He had already endured years of imprisonment and brutal beatings by security forces. His attempts to communicate with the outside world were thwarted, and anyone who tried to visit him was met with violence. On that moonless night, with his captors asleep, Chen…

BEIJING, March 12 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping, a figure widely recognized for his firm leadership, has maintained a strong political position and continues to advocate for deep political reforms within China. “China must continue to deepen reform, injecting strong momentum into high-quality development and advancing modernization,” Xi emphasized during the recent annual sessions of the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Since Xi took office more than a decade ago, China has seen remarkable progress economically and internationally. While the country has achieved significant milestones, Xi has stressed the ongoing need for reform to…

In a heartfelt message to believers, Joseph Sung, a well-known pastor and inspirational speaker, emphasized the importance of living a life that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God rather than conforming to the ways of the world. In his recent sermon, delivered at a gathering of thousands, Sung called on Christians to hold firm to their faith amidst the overwhelming influences of society. Drawing parallels to biblical teachings, Sung referenced the story of Joseph from the Book of Genesis, highlighting how Joseph maintained his faith even when faced with severe adversity. Despite being betrayed by his own brothers…

In the ever-changing political landscape of Hong Kong, where voices of dissent are increasingly silenced, the words “Everyone is Jimmy Lai, Everyday is Chung Ting-yiu” resonate with an undeniable urgency. These words encapsulate the growing struggles of everyday Hongkongers who have become the embodiment of the fight for freedom, democracy, and justice, much like the pro-democracy mogul Jimmy Lai and the fallen activist Chung Ting-yiu. The Protagonists of Hong Kong’s Struggle: Jimmy Lai and Chung Ting-yiu Jimmy Lai, the founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily, has become a symbol of resistance against Beijing’s tightening grip on the city. Lai, a…