Laziness is not a description associated with Hongkongers, who are known to be among the hardest working people in the world. We are pragmatic, and passionate when it comes to issues we care deeply about. Seven years ago, half a million people marched in opposition to the proposed Article 23 national security legislation, resulting not only in the shelving of the legislation, but also the resignation of key officials. Hongkongers proved that being pragmatic does not equate to being politically apathetic.
Since then, our government and political parties have become more sensitive to numbers - public opinion polls, political rally attendances, popularity ratings. The prominence given to numbers is arguably a good thing; it forces leaders to take the public pulse before making any decision, and it gives voice to Hongkongers' opinions on a variety of issues.
Our participation in the political process is much more than casting votes. Deliberative democracy involves those governing and the governed in policy discussions, where, in theory, parties of different social backgrounds and even conflicting interests can have an equal say on issues of public interest.
Recall the months leading up to the historic march in the summer of 2003, and the 'white vs blue bill' debate then over the room for public participation. That experience, no doubt, is a reason the government now seeks public input on issues.
Recently concluded, ongoing and upcoming public consultations show a long list of concerns: subsidised housing, columbarium policy, protection for consumers against unfair trade practices, the hosting of the 2023 Asian Games, a strategy to reduce the city's carbon footprint, the West Kowloon Cultural District design concepts, the establishment of an independent insurance authority, and the voluntary medical coverage plans.
Yet, responses have been underwhelming.
Judging by the ongoing heated debate over housing, one would expect that the issue would attract more than the 800-plus opinions and 5,300 Facebook responses the Transport and Housing Bureau has reportedly received.