Aqua

In the fight against A (H1N1) flu, the Chinese government is either doing too much or not doing enough, depending on whom you ask.


Compulsory quarantining of those who have shown symptoms has been criticized as an overreaction that infringes on individual privacy. And now, as the flu looks like it is ready to erupt, people are complaining about the lack of widespread access to the vaccine.


In special circumstances like a fatal flu epidemic, we support the government adopting necessary steps to prevent a public panic. But what is missing here is a sense of responsibility from each individual.


It is everyone's duty to maintain proper hygiene, keep informed about the virus' development, and refrain from traveling in case of suspicious symptoms. As the challenge of curbing the pandemic grows tougher, it falls to every individual to cooperate more.


How far government should reach is always difficult to define. China has a particularly big government, one which takes responsibility for everything from keeping bus fares reasonable to boosting the stock market.


China's big, powerful government dates back to the days of the old planned economy, when civil administration was everywhere in everyday life. Looking back farther in history, Chinese were ruled for thousands of years by various dominant dynasties.


As a result, Chinese in general lack a proper sense of individual responsibility. People are used to relying on the government for everything, and hence blame the government for everything, from poor air quality to faltering morals.


An overly-large government is inefficient and may lead to the abuse of power. It often creates unnecessary burdens.
Government often has the desire to over-regulate, but it is simply impossible for it to have its hands on everything.
Responsibility must be delegated to individuals in order to optimize governance and reduce administrative cost.


Meanwhile, as we ask the government to cut its size and improve efficiency, everyone has to show a due sense of responsibility when given more individual rights. That means respecting the law and the social ethical code.


For example, local governments nationwide launched an intensive campaign against drunk driving last month after several high profile cases that involved serious casualties.


More traffic police were posted and heavy fines were levied. While these measures may work temporarily, the final solution lies in every one of us. Individuals must choose on their own to obey traffic laws and cherish every life. Citizens must take responsibility.


In the past, the government's shadow fell over every aspect of our lives. Civil society is a trendy term these days. But true social health is impossible unless everyone realizes their rights and responsibilities.


Global Times

netawhile

These views and how they apply to Chinese citizens also apply to citizens abroad.  As a basic function of every person on Earth, respect for the law and for other citizens is central to the case of reduced government efforts.  It will reduce the need for government to "micro manage" on the individual and allow the government ot focus on broader improvements that benefit many.  There will always be the need for our government to set up and review and enforce laws.  Government also works internationally with other governments as representatives on behalf of the people.  If citizens follow the "rule of law" and practice mutual respect for others in their actions, the people would effectively govern themselves while the government operates at a higher level or in a more global sense.  It is the right and responsibility of all people to step up and aid government in this goal.