Second Thoughts on Asian Democracy

Abstract

RESPONSIBLE LEADERS in Asia are concerned that the democratic institutions and ideals to which they were devoted during the fight for independence may prove inadequate to fulfil public expectations in the crucial years of nation building. Second thoughts indeed are in order. Military rule, authoritarian tendencies of the political leadership and in administration, compounded by demagoguery, nepotism, corruption and apathy, have been more the rule than the exception in the region in recent years. The communist overthrow of the Republic in China in 1949 and the rapid rise of Chinese military and economic strength on mainland Asia have posed competitive ideological and power threats to the newly independent Asian countries that cannot be ignored. It is not given to these new states to experiment slowly and cautiously. The compulsions urging rapid economic growth and demanding national unity and loyalty press for results, and a variety of totalitarian techniques to achieve short-term goals await adoption if democratic institutions falter. The flag of Asian democracy is at half mast these days at best.