The Chinese Solution

On the one hand, it shows that capitalism and other Western "values" have been making inroads in Chinese culture. On the other hand, although somewhat awkward, it speaks well of the regard that the Chinese have for their elders. I'm referring to a new law in China that requires descendants to visit and engage with their parents and grandparents, not just to support them financially. Apparently, in the "new" China, people have fallen into the "rat race", and have less time to share with their elders.

Given our legal culture, it would be quite difficult and impractical to pass a law like this one, but, still, it should make us think about what we as a society do with our old people. We still have trouble getting people to support their old relatives financially, let alone spend quality time with them.

As the old song goes, we should "try a little tenderness."

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