So let’s say it again: There is no such thing as an efficient dictatorship. Only, when you it this time, think of Google and China.
Yes, it’s true that Google should take great shame in kowtowing to the Butchers of Beijing, but that’s not the whole story.
We take Google for granted, but we shouldn’t. For those lucky enough to live in the US, Google has given has a virtual research library – for free. I’m a better thinker, a sharper writer, and a richer individual thanks to Google.
And what will Google do for China? The answer is: Less than it’s done for us. . . . China is trying to compete in the high-tech economy, while crippling the tools that make such competition possible.
(Via China Syndrome). More thoughts here.