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Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clearTrump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear. (May 15) One deniable fact: There are no winners on either side (between China and the United States) in the trade and tariff war. Yet, Trump still persists to do it. It is not surprising that Trump has increased China's...

Podcasts didn't decide GE2025Podcasts didn't decide GE2025 I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage with politics (May 9). The 2025 General Election has several features/characteristics that deserve our attention, discussion and reflection: In today era, technological revolution, innovation and advancement...

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAPGE2025: Stunning victory for PAP I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher national vote share in PM Wong's first electoral test” (May 4). GE2025 has clearly delivered the following key messages/notes from the vast majority of voters: The Workers’ Party (WP) has done a fantastic good...

This is not a game of cardsThis is not a game of cards I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors games on nominations day, the shuffling of the DPM from a seat he had openly been declared to be defending, and other ministers shuffling constituencies leaves one feeling the PAP thinks it is playing a game of cards. Constituency...

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans? I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?” - (April 14), and “The Straits Times’ report, “GE2025: Singaporeans will go to the polls on May 3, Nomination Day on April 23” (April 15), and The Online Citizen GE2025 report,...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝... Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification for the highest salaries in the world. Let’s look at its more recent track record. Large numbers of NRIC numbers were recently unmasked, leaving Singaporeans exposed to identity theft, fraud, abuse and scams....

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit TimahGE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make way for Singapore Democratic Party” (April 10), “More opposition 'star catches' are emerging. Is Singapore's political scene maturing?” (April 10) and “PSP says government response to Trump tariffs 'overblown',...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politicsGE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited... I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics” (Mar 28). It is not surprised to notice that in recent weeks, two NMPs and top ministry officials have resigned, fuelling speculation they could be fielded as potential candidates for the ruling People's Action...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025 I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar 25). As Singapore’s General Election is due to be held within this year, the following factors will more or less influence the election situation this year: A)The general mentality of voters Voters are generally...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US supportHow the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning... I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US support” (Mar 4), “Lessons from the Trump-Zelenskyy meltdown- for friends and foes” (Mar 1) and “Will Trump tariffs push China to change economic tack?” (Mar 3). Foremost, we need to recognise the reality...

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum WageSingapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage: National Service Should Not Come at the Expense of Opportunity Costs Singapore’s National Service (NS) has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s defense, requiring young men to dedicate two years of their lives to military, civil defense, or police service. While...

Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoningTrump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of... I refer to the CNA’s Commentaries, “Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoning” (Feb 20) and “Ukraine can survive with the ‘least worst’ peace” (Feb 22). Now, In the eyes of European Union, they have lost trust and confidence in the United States, it is solely due to the flip flop...

From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiringFrom Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are... I refer to the CNA’s Commentary, “From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiring” (Jan 31). Would it be practical, useful and effective for the United States to continually pursue an aggressive containment strategy to hobble China’s tech push? Undoubtedly, the answer is obviously not. There...

Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picksDon't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: “Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks” (Nov 25), and “'No one will win a trade war’, China says after Trump tariff threat” (Nov 26). As everyone knows, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will return to power on January 20, 2025. Trump has dismissed...

Putin escalates Ukraine warPutin escalates Ukraine war I refer to The CNA’s Commentary: “Putin escalates Ukraine war by a step, not a leap, with missile experiment” (Nov 23). Foremost, Zelenskyi’s intention to join Nato has greatly threatened the security and survival of Russia. Hence, Zelenskyy has offended Putin and Putin has no choice but to launch a war with...

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Editorials
Real Footage of China's 2025 Flood Crisis in Yunnan...

Real Footage of China's 2025 Flood Crisis in Yunnan...

Devastating floods and geological disasters have struck Gongshan County, Nujiang Prefecture in Yunnan...
Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

On the evening of May 8, Xi’an, the capital city of China’s Shaanxi Province, was struck by a powerful...
Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

A total of four opposition parties, the Singapore United Party (SUP), People's Power Party (PPP), People’s...
Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Northern China was hit by an extreme weather event on Thursday as a massive cold front swept south, colliding...
Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

On April 30, northern China was struck by an extreme weather event as a massive cold vortex surged southward,...
TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

Please be informed that TR Emeritus (TRE) will shut down its comment function site-wide at 0000 hours...
Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Beijing’s 22 million residents were asked to stay indoors on Saturday, as powerful winds swept across...
China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay, causing...
Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread panic...
Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Since March 24, 2025, northern China has been battling extreme weather as a massive sandstorm swept through...
Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

An unexpected and severe hailstorm struck multiple cities in Guangdong and Fujian between March 3 and...
Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

On March 2, 2025, extreme weather struck multiple regions in China, with parts of Henan province experiencing...
Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Wishing all our Chinese readers:     Team@TR Emeritus  
Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

As the Chinese New Year approaches, millions of people across the country are making their annual journey...
The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is making headlines as cases surge, especially among children and vulnerable...
4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

On the evening of January 10, 2025, Linfen City in Shanxi Province was struck by an earthquake. The tremor,...
7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has hit Tibet, in the region of Shigatse, which is near the border with Nepal. According...
Outbreak of mystery virus in China

Outbreak of mystery virus in China

China is r eportedly facing a new health crisis as the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak rapidly...
Opinions
Don’t Rock The Boat

Don’t Rock The Boat

Singaporeans are, by and large, practical people, being mainly immigrant stock. They value security,...
Trump and his ilk are at it again

Trump and his ilk are at it again

Trump and his ilk are at it again. They are not going to back down. Yes, it’s Harvard, his eyesore,...
我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

新加坡政府近日宣布将采购两艘额外的“无畏级”潜艇,引发了一个重要问题:我们的国防力量,到底需要多强? 毫无疑问,一个强大且可信的军队对于保障国家主权与威慑潜在威胁是不可或缺的。新加坡地处战略要冲,国土面积有限,因此需要一支现代化的武装部队。然而,当我们对比邻国——马来西亚拥有两艘潜艇、印尼正逐步扩展至十二艘——新加坡在水下战力上已处于领先地位。这不禁让人质疑,我们是否正引领着一场无声的区域军备竞赛? 问题在于:当威慑的需求被满足后,继续扩军是否已经超出必要? 一艘“无畏级”潜艇的估价超过十亿新元,还不包括长期的运营与维护成本。这两艘新潜艇的资金,若能转用于迫切的民生需求,例如医疗保健、老龄化支援、教育及弱势群体扶助,或许对社会的整体韧性更具意义。 政府一再强调国防开支是经过审慎规划的,但当生活成本日益上升,政府却仍需将消费税(Gst)提高至9%甚至更多,这种矛盾不禁令人困惑。如果某些战略性国防项目能够延后或循序推进,节省下来的资源是否可以用于社会发展呢? “全面防卫”不仅仅是硬件实力,更是要赢得人民的心与信任。让人民感到安心、有保障、受到重视,这种安全感无法靠潜艇来衡量,而是通过每一位国人的生活实感体现出来。 这并非是在呼吁削弱我们的国防,而是呼吁我们重新思考国家的优先事项。当我们继续推进军事现代化的同时,也不要忽视同样重要的任务——巩固社会契约、增强国民凝聚力。   Cwc-Ai  
The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The first part of the threes is about the when, the how and the why? And it is about his retirement...
我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

新加坡政府近日宣布将采购两艘额外的“无畏级”潜艇,引发了一个重要问题:我们的国防力量,到底需要多强? 毫无疑问,一个强大且可信的军队对于保障国家主权与威慑潜在威胁是不可或缺的。新加坡地处战略要冲,国土面积有限,因此需要一支现代化的武装部队。然而,当我们对比邻国——马来西亚拥有两艘潜艇、印尼正逐步扩展至十二艘——新加坡在水下战力上已处于领先地位。这不禁让人质疑,我们是否正引领着一场无声的区域军备竞赛? 问题在于:当威慑的需求被满足后,继续扩军是否已经超出必要? 一艘“无畏级”潜艇的估价超过十亿新元,还不包括长期的运营与维护成本。这两艘新潜艇的资金,若能转用于迫切的民生需求,例如医疗保健、老龄化支援、教育及弱势群体扶助,或许对社会的整体韧性更具意义。 政府一再强调国防开支是经过审慎规划的,但当生活成本日益上升,政府却仍需将消费税(Gst)提高至9%甚至更多,这种矛盾不禁令人困惑。如果某些战略性国防项目能够延后或循序推进,节省下来的资源是否可以用于社会发展呢? “全面防卫”不仅仅是硬件实力,更是要赢得人民的心与信任。让人民感到安心、有保障、受到重视,这种安全感无法靠潜艇来衡量,而是通过每一位国人的生活实感体现出来。 这并非是在呼吁削弱我们的国防,而是呼吁我们重新思考国家的优先事项。当我们继续推进军事现代化的同时,也不要忽视同样重要的任务——巩固社会契约、增强国民凝聚力。   Cwc-Ai  
Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

There is a rampant rumor going around that claims Egypt has ordered 48 J10C with a price tag of USD$25B...
2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025年大选结果无可争议,政府再次赢得了强有力的授权,稳固了其在新加坡政治格局中的主导地位。尽管选举结果并不令人意外,但胜利的过程却并非没有争议和复杂性。 值得注意的是,选区划分的变化在本次选战中发挥了重要作用。陈清木医生与徐顺全医生等资深反对派人物,因选区重划而受到显著影响——传统支持基础被分割或并入他区,无疑左右了某些关键选区的最终结果。虽然选区调整在新加坡选举历史上并不罕见,但其公平性与透明度仍持续引发讨论。 工人党虽稳守东北区的传统堡垒,但未能在本届大选中攻下新的选区。不过,该党仍获得两个非选区议员(Ncmp)席位,虽属安慰性质,却在象征意义上维持了国会内多元声音的存在。 更值得关注的是,本届大选所处的人口背景正经历剧烈变化。新加坡人口从2000年的约300万增长至2025年的超过500万。考虑到多年来出生率持续偏低,这一增长几乎可以肯定主要归因于移民流入,尤其可能在华人群体中增长显著。这一趋势对国家的社会结构和政治生态产生了深远影响。 展望2030年大选,各政党不仅要面对一如既往的选区调整与突发的全球事件,更需正视一个不断演变的社会结构。随着越来越多新移民成为国民,选民构成日益多元,政党在政策制定与信息传递上必须更具包容性与前瞻性。他们必须同时争取老一代公民与新加坡新公民的认同,回应共同关切,并跨越代际与文化差异的鸿沟。 在新加坡持续向前迈进的过程中,其政治也必须与时俱进——反映日益多元的人口现实,同时坚守国家的核心价值观:团结、韧性与务实。 Cwc-Ai
A jaw-dropping election

A jaw-dropping election

This is a jaw-dropping election. For the opposition. SDP’s Dr Chee and PSP’s Leong were deeply disappointed....
The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

Our party suffered great losses and I personally have suffered the greatest hit. But these personal losses...
A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

Minister Ong Ye Kung’s recent assertion that a “co-driver” bears no responsibility if a car crashes...
There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing. At least in PAP’s books. And one of the costs is a policy of priority. That...
Hougang Belongs to the People

Hougang Belongs to the People

Thank You for the Reminder, Mr Marshall Lim. It is with no small measure of amusement that one reads...
Its all about trust

Its all about trust

Dr Ng Eng Hen from PAP has pointed out the most important key point about this General Elections, it...
Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

The government's repeated assertion that it is "easy for the opposition to ask the government to give...
Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC is without question one of the most hotly watched, followed and contested constituency in...
Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Singaporeans should pause and reflect on the recent remark by PAP candidate David Neo, who said that...
Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

The Singapore government’s blunt assertion that the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP)’s proposals...
Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

In a political contest, expect the exchange of barbs. And we do not lack any of it in the rallies held...
Letters
Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in...

Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in...

I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear. (May...
Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage...
GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher...
Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs...
GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make...
GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics”...
More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar...
How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning...
Snippets
Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s sports industry is on the cusp of greatness, leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure and...
What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

As work-life balance remains a constant talking point in the fast-paced city-state of Singapore, residents...
10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

Singaporeans can't get enough of their phones these days, spending tons of time battling opponents, building...
Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Planning a tropical escape from Malaysia to Thailand? The journey from Langkawi to Koh Lipe offers a...
This is not a game of cards

This is not a game of cards

I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors...
𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification...
The sleep science revolution in elite sports

The sleep science revolution in elite sports

Professional sports have entered a new era where recovery science directly impacts performance outcomes....
Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

In today's world, online sports betting has become not only a popular form of entertainment but also...
Sticky & Recent Articles

Night Of The Long Knives

Night Of The Long Knives

Whoa! The two old guys must have been real unhappy - they even refused to stay on as chairman, a typical post for senior executives who are kicked upstairs as reward for years of loyal service. Instead, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will replace Lee Kuan Yew be the new chairman of GIC, and Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam... 

Caught in the eye of the storm

Caught in the eye of the storm

With over 60,000 Facebook users calling for her to step down, Marine Parade MP Tin Pei Ling has attracted an unprecedented wave of hatred The mainstream media has tried hard to portray her as a well-meaning, starry-eyed young lady who just wants to serve her country. Internet critics have suggested that she is, amongst other... 

新加坡模式为什么难以为继?

新加坡模式为什么难以为继?

这次到新加坡来实地了解普通民众对新加坡模式的感受。以前也来过几次,但都没有机会同新加坡人深入交谈,去年底集中时间研究了一番“新加坡模式”后,计划了这次新加坡实地考察之旅。 在几天时间里,我同十位各行各业新加坡当地人(包括三位出租车司机)进行了长达11个小时的对话,获得了从书本上很难得到的第一手感性认识。 与新加坡普通人(此处指官员、富商与专家学者等精英之外的新加坡人)的聊天中,给我印象最深的是对话者几乎都对新加坡现状持满意态度。虽然在我的“诱导”下,有四位对话者都在最后多多少少表达了担忧与些许的不满,但总体来说,“人民很满意”,大家的幸福指数很高。有一位出租车司机这样总结:满不满意是相对的,只要和周围比较一下,不要说新加坡比马来西亚强多了,就是同日本、韩国、香港相比,我们也不差,新加坡建国只有45年,还不满意,要怎么样? 有一位店员流露出对当局对付反对党(打压得毫不留情)的不满,最后也坦承,建国45年的新加坡,经济发展一直直线上升,反对党不管推行什么理念,能够提出比这更好的经济政策吗?反对党上台,能够让我们的收入更多、让新加坡的经济发展更快吗?如果不能,我们为什么要支持你? 也有一位对话者对我赞扬新加坡表示“感谢”之后承认,李光耀培养自己的儿子当隔代接班人,延续他的王朝,让人心里总感到有点不舒服,而且,根据“肥水不流外人田”的原则,李光耀之子李显龙下台后,上去的人还会是他们指定的,甚至依然是他们自己的子孙后代(再来一次隔代指定)。至于这样的政府是否有贪污腐败,外界可能并不完全清楚,可有一个事实是,新加坡的贪污腐败的程度同亚洲其他国家相比,几乎可以忽略不计。 另外一位新加坡人告诉我,曾经有反对党的人指责李光耀贪污腐败(给自己买了一栋房子),被整得很惨,最后流亡澳洲。这事我早就知道,但这位新加坡人在说起这件事时的神态(压低声音,好像怕被人听到),我却是第一次注意到,我打断他问道,你在新加坡敢公开说李光耀的坏话吗?他支支吾吾地说,他们知道了,会告我诽谤。李光耀像一位皇帝,在新加坡你搞不过他的。 我又问,如果我写文章批评李光耀呢?我在新加坡会有危险吗?他说,你在新加坡有地方发表吗?西方任何一个媒体刊登严厉批评李光耀家族的文章,都会被要求道歉与赔偿。我不以为然地说,扯,没有人会给他道歉与赔偿吧?这位新加坡人立即说,不道歉?你的媒体就别想再进入这个国家了。 一直以来,我也认为有一个独特的“新加坡模式”,在经过一些研究,以及实地考察后,我才意识到,所谓新加坡模式,就是一种“混合政体”,是在西方早就出现过的一种混合各种政治体制的杂种制度,又叫“混合政治”。就我看到的文献,最早论及这种政体的是马基雅维利,他提出的“混合政府”是当今很多特殊模式的鼻祖。马氏看到了当时仅有的三种政治体制(君主制、贵族制与民主制)各有优点,也各有弊端,强调美德的重要性等等。他最后得出的结论是:只有把君主制、贵族制和民主制的要素结合在一起的政府体制,才能造就完美的政府。 马氏的学说有其他种种解读,并有多种延伸,但如果我们看一下香港、新加坡以及民主前的南韩与台湾等国家与地区,就不难看出马基雅维利的影子:既然每一个政治体制都有缺陷,那么为什么不择善而用?或者,对我有利的我就采用?采取实用主义,弄出一个特色的“模式”? 当今的“中国模式”不正是如此?无论我们的政治制度,还是经济体制,又或者社会结构,文化意识形态等等,分开来研究,你会发现其中任何一个都没有独特之处,历史上很多国家都有过,现在也都还存在于地球上的很多国家之中,但能够把这些互不相干、甚至互相排斥的“制度”弄在一起,塞进一个国家的政体里,形成一种新的“模式”,则首推新加坡与中国大陆。 无论是新加坡还是中国大陆的政体里,你能够找到北韩与古巴依然在实行的书报管制制度,你也能看到在经济与社会风气等领域,有比美国还自由的东西…… 外界常常把李光耀说成是儒家的楷模,是以德治国的典型。你可能没有意识到,当今世界诸国中,把卖淫与赌博都同时合法化的国家其实没有几个,而新加坡就是其中之一。这个国家,你如果批评他的领导人李光耀,他会用“法律”的手段让你倾家荡产与妻离子散!道德,在这个国家很重要,尤其是皇帝的道德。可就在我离开新加坡的那一天,一条新闻让我对这个国家的所谓道德产生了疑问。 新加坡海峡时报的头版头条:中国黑龙江22岁的女子死在新加坡富翁的游泳池边,警察得出结论:女孩在新加坡富翁别墅过夜后,可能去裸泳,却因为不会游泳而溺毙……死者的父母赶到新加坡,他们原来以为美丽的女儿只是到新加坡一家印度人开的餐厅当领班…… 我又把能够找到的新加坡报纸(四个报摊上也就三份)全部买下来,仔细读完,沉思良久,因为我发现在所有的新加坡报道中,对那个把女子带到别墅嫖宿的新加坡精英富翁没有一个字儿的“不敬”,这实在是在任何一个国家都不可想象的奇迹啊。是因为卖淫合法化,还是因为这个国家的财富与权贵精英们已经像李光耀一样成为道德的化身,媒体早已沦落为供他们合法玩弄的妓女? 据说,李光耀在新加坡取得成功后,曾经有野心要把新加坡模式推向马来西亚,也就是合并两国,由他来搞新加坡模式。后来被马来人识破了“阴谋”而作罢。但他不必太灰心,英雄毕竟有用武之地。如果你稍微对照一下,“中国模式”和“新加坡模式”都是混合政体的典范,这是当初邓小平刻意学习新加坡模式?还是两个国家不约而同地走上了同一条道路?这也许并不重要,重要的是,两个国家都有了经济高速发展,取得了一定的成绩。 这正是“混合政体”所具有的优势,设计者在一开始就带着功利主义思想,把其他国家行之有效的某些经验吸收过来,也确实能够取得一定的成绩。例如,当发现市场经济比计划经济更有效,他就全盘引进,但实行市场经济的绝大多数国家用人权(价值观)与国家福利来限制市场过分自由与膨胀,或多或少规范了自由市场,这方面他就不引进,结果市场倒是自由发展了,道德、权力与人格等也成了待价而沽的商品。 这种“混合政体”还有其自身无法克服的缺陷——因为它在“择优录用”的过程中,把那些看似“毒素”却其实是“疫苗”的部分给剔除掉了。 可是,至少从我自己的研究与实地考察的情况来看,“新加坡模式”暂时是成功的,让新加坡民众满意,社会也很和谐,如果这不算成功,难道马来西亚的多党制民主才算成功?现在简单探讨一下新加坡模式为什么成功。 我认为最重要的原因就是因为李光耀先生。李光耀建立了新加坡,功劳比华盛顿建立美国还要大一些(华盛顿有很多人帮忙,李光耀几乎是独自一人)。从已有的材料看,李光耀人品与修养也不差(虽然我前面对他多有不敬),有些方面比华盛顿更突出(至少李光耀先生没有奴隶伺候他),当然,两人不可相提并论的主要原因是:华盛顿任两任总统后离开了权力中心,留下了了千古绝唱的美国民主制度;李光耀不但不退出权力中心,而且还隔代培养自己的儿子接班。华盛顿成为民主世界永远的灯塔,李光耀只不过是现代社会披上西装的另外一个皇帝而已。 可新加坡模式却少不了李光耀,没有李光耀的新加坡模式一定面目全非。这就是“ 混合政体”的一个重要特点,与建立者个人道德,以及他对全局的掌控程度密不可分。可问题是:李光耀创立了新加坡,新加坡从此也就离不开李光耀,一旦没有了李光耀,新加坡模式绝对出问题。而且,问题不出在新加坡模式,而是出在李光耀家族。 我的“七十年大限”理论对新加坡完全适用,新加坡现在建国只45年,李光耀如果不隔代多指定几个接班人,我估计新加坡模式根本无法持续到建国60年,更别说70年了。当然,这不是说新加坡要亡党亡国,而是说有些新的变化要出现,打破现在那种所谓的“新加坡模式”。 如果没有子承父业,新加坡不可能繁荣至今,李光耀不可能那么品格高尚、大公无私。如果有人不明白这个道理,看看中国的历朝历代吧,有哪几个朝代的前三代皇帝不是把国家治理得井井有条,甚至盛世叠出,繁荣昌盛的?当然,有人说中国当代的开国皇帝就不是,一上来就折腾老百姓,折磨接班人,那是因为,他本来是皇帝,却被自己身边的一帮革命同志逼迫得不得不废除世袭制,而更主要的是,他唯一的可以继承皇位的儿子却牺牲在朝鲜战争中。如果毛岸英没死,毛泽东会想办法培养他隔代接班,而且一定会成功,那样的话,毛本人对未来尤其是他死后就比较放心,也更有信心,从而,他也就不会把自己的接班人一个一个折辱致死,把几个亿的中国人弄得死去活来,人不人,鬼不鬼。 新加坡模式之所以成功的另外一个原因就在于它的规模与特殊地理位置。“混合政体”能够成功的主要原因就是规模要小,这样才便于建立这种模式的人控制,不至于走样。新加坡人口只有五百万,靠转口贸易、高科技与旅游业很容易让这个城市繁荣昌盛,更何况它像香港背靠中国大陆一样,夹在马拉西亚等大国之间,只要一些有眼光的精英制定正确的贸易与通商规则,不愁经济发展不起来。 李光耀有这个眼光,善于利用人才,做出了正确的选择。但仅此而已,并没有什么独特之处,在世界城市国家(或地区)中,新加坡并没有什么“过人之处”。无论是欧洲,还是亚洲其他地方的城市国家(或者相对独立的以城市为单位的政体)都并不输于新加坡。 拿香港作一下比较就清楚了。还可以拿中国的深圳作比较。过去20年里,深圳的发展速度远远超过新加坡。深圳从一个渔村发展成一个国际大都市,比新加坡更加传奇。不同的是,深圳除了同新加坡差不多的常住人口外,还居住着几百万流动人口,新加坡有这个能力吗? 如果中国各地城市允许自治的话,会产生几十个新加坡,几十个香港,没什么了不起的。但中央集权要学习新加坡模式,要一统江湖,却想不到自己的规模成为障碍,一个“德高望重”的李光耀家族与他挑选的精英可以控制新加坡,让新加坡只有三四分报纸。中国别说没有新加坡这样的开国皇帝,即便有,如何能够让自己的“威德”覆盖13亿人口?结果政令不出中南海成为必然,50家大家族下还有500家利益集团,层层瓜分利益,鱼肉民众,弄得苦不堪言,同样一个“新加坡模式”,到了北京,就走样了,规模是主要的原因。 当然还有民众的素质,这里不是指高低,而是指不同的素质。新加坡作为一个华人城市,按照其生活水准来说,在文化艺术与科技等人类的精神财富上,真是乏善可陈。当时下南洋来到新加坡的华人以及北上的马来人,追寻的就是“填饱肚子”,李光耀让他们如愿以偿了,夫复何求? 新加坡这种混合政体的模式,最大的优势就在于有竞争力,什么样的竞争力?就是可以随时调整立场,不顾原则,突出某些优势的竞争力。例如,中国现在几乎可以买下世界了,而且也在逐渐购买。可是有人就奇怪了,美国还是世界老大啊,他比中国有钱很多,他为什么不能购买世界?或者在中国购买世界时与中国较劲?原因很简单,他的体制不允许它这样“集中力量办大事”,而我们的混合体制——集社会主义的绝对政治权力与资本主义庞大的经济实力于一体——则可以做到这一点。 相比较而言,这种混合政治在一些相对较小的国家和地区,在面对非混合政体的时候比较容易发挥优势,取得局部成功。例如,如果现在在中国内地某个地区搞混合政体,或者吸收极左的一些做法,不但不会失败,往往会取得成功。听说有个华西村就很“成功”,这一点也不奇怪,想一下,当每一个人都享受自由的时候,你纠集五个人,以崇高的借口剥夺他们的自由,让五个人团结起来,那么,毫无疑问,你们的力量是最大的。 还有一个重庆模式,有人竟然说要推广到全国,这实在是可笑。重庆模式的“成功”就在于实行了文革的那一套,而它实行文革那一套却没有造成文革的灾难,就因为它只是在一个小地方实行。而且,使得整个小地方在于周边一大片地区竞争中,占到了明显的优势。可你想复制重庆模式到全国各地,不必了,毛泽东同志早就搞过文化大革命了。 这道理同中国某一个教子有方的父母的经验一样,他靠严厉的管教,甚至靠皮鞭让自己的几个孩子都考上了大学。请问,你想把他的经验推广到全国,让每一个父母手里都握一条皮鞭? 新加坡模式不适合中国,或者说,中国早就实行的是(混合政体的)“新加坡模式”。以前很多人说,大国不能搞民主,我认为恰恰相反,正因为大国才一定要搞民主。否则,除非你回到秦始皇时代,建立绝对的权威来掌控绝对的权力,不乱才怪。所谓大国民主,核心内容就是各地自治,这并不难理解。我们有很多实际上根本不是自治的“自治区、州、县”,但中国实际上的自治出现在华西村,重庆基本上搞出了自己的“模式”,国际上还有新加坡、香港与台湾模式可以借鉴。中国还有那么多地方,为什么不能各显神通?一定要一起等死似地等待北京的几个人来决定你们的命运?决定十几亿人的前途?这也许是新加坡模式给我们的最好的思考。 . 杨恒均 Source:... 

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