Chinese Nationalism on the Rise Thanks to World Criticism

The criticism the Chinese have received over Tibet and the resulting protests that have occurred during the Olympic torch relays are fueling a rise in Chinese nationalism:

BEIJING — Bristling at criticism in the run-up to the Summer Olympics, China is lashing back at its foreign critics _ by name.

Earlier this week, the state Xinhua news agency called House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “disgusting.” And on Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu lambasted a CNN commentator, Jack Cafferty, for his “vicious” commentary on China.

“We solemnly request that CNN, and Cafferty himself, take back the malicious remarks and apologize to the Chinese people,” Jiang said at a news briefing.

Protests plaguing a global Olympic torch relay, along with mounting criticism of China’s handling of domestic unrest by Tibetans, have embittered many Chinese. As foreign leaders discuss whether to boycott Olympic opening ceremonies Aug. 8, Chinese internet sites are replete with their own mounting calls for boycotts — of foreign goods.

The mood has definitely soured here as the nation prepares to host its biggest international event ever. Angry nationalism has replaced what had been festive anticipation as government officials to lash out at foreign critics, trying to stay ahead of public resentment _ even fury _ that foreigners may spoil the Summer Olympics with what some see as unwarranted criticism.

Several foreign journalists, including correspondents for USA Today and The Times of London, say they have received death threats.

When it comes to Pelosi and Cafferty, the Chinese have a good point. There are a lot of Americans who would agree with the Chinese sentiments.

All of this points out the folly of those who are demanding that Bush skip the opening ceremonies. Is it better for the world if we keep poking the Giant Panda, or would it be better to actually talk to them about the serious issues going on right now. Boycotting the opening ceremonies would just further fuel the rise of nationalism, and that can't be good for anybody.