Of Google and Governance

Dean Cheng / March 30, 2010

Too much of the discussion of Google’s departure has focused on censorship of political ideas, as though the problem was whether a Google search of “Tiananmen” should include a 21-year old photograph of a (very brave) man standing before a line of Chinese tanks.

The reality, however, is that the core of the Google-China dispute is about the perceived competency of the Chinese central government. When the Chinese authorities themselves acknowledge $35 billion in governmental waste and fraud, it suggests a scale of corruption and inefficiency that requires more accountability.

But for the CCP to acknowledge this as a national problem, as opposed to problems at the local level, would raise real questions about the competency and effectiveness of the central government. If corruption and bad governance is widespread, then either the government is aware and helpless, or unaware and incompetent. Small wonder, then, that individuals in China, such as Zhao Lianhai, who seek to use the Internet to publicize problems such as the milk powder poisoning incidents are promptly jailed.

In light of the growing incidences of mass unrest, often sparked by concerns over pollution, corruption, and health hazards, it is vital to maintain the appearance that the problems are local, and the responses are limited. For Google not to participate raises the specter of groups discovering that corruption and problems are widespread. Worse, it might lead to a national reaction. (more…)