Letters | Not just Americans value the pursuit of happiness. Chinese do, too
- Readers discuss the factors motivating talent, and the rights of Hungarians in Ukraine
I recall reading a newspaper article about a Chinese-American who, hoping to make a scientific contribution to China, returned to the motherland to work as a researcher, only to be frustrated by the bureaucracy. Yet, she remains reluctant to go back to the US. Many Chinese-American doctorate holders have contributed much to the US, only to be disappointed by how they are treated there. But Americans insist the United States is a cultural mélange, offering opportunities to many.
Influenced by John Locke, the Enlightenment philosopher of 17th-century England, US president Thomas Jefferson in the 18th century emphasised the rights of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”, as stated in the Declaration of Independence. Locke had mentioned “life, liberty and estate” in his second treatise of government. Clearly, one’s property and pursuit of happiness are interrelated.
“To live in peace and work in contentment” is a Chinese idiom encapsulating the importance of both protection of property and freedom to choose career paths and lifestyles, without which we cannot be happy.
Given Chinese people’s industry and wisdom, China, not to mention Hong Kong, can become the most influential world leader economically and politically if led by an enlightened government.
Barnaby Ieong, Macau