Lure of money seems supreme
Updated: 2014-11-05 08:15
(China Daily)
|
||||||||
Comment on "Money holds the key to happiness in Asia, survey finds" (China Daily, Nov 1-2)
The power of money is supreme. This is the reality of the modern world of globalization, which is ruled by capital.
Of course, money is important, very important, for survival. But money is not the be all and end all of life. Money can buy commodities, essential and not-so-essential, including luxury. Money can buy economic power and social respect. But money cannot buy peace. It cannot buy real respect either.
But in these fast-changing times, when almost everything comes packaged in glitz, it is difficult for people not to fall prey to the lures of what seems irresistible consumer goods which can had only in exchange for money.
Perhaps it is not fair to blame the people for not being able to read between the advertisement lines of manufacturers and service providers, for they are unaware of the other side of the story, the story of intellectual and cultural satisfaction that no money can buy.
Since China cannot influence the public sentiments in the other countries where the Pew Research Center global survey was conducted, it should instruct governments at all levels in the country to start promoting the real values of life. Happiness is not only about money, even though it is very important for a person. This is something the people have to be made aware of. In fact, this is what even the Pew survey says.
READER, via e-mail
Readers' comments are welcome. Please send your e-mail to opinion@chinadaily.com.cn or letters@chinadaily.com.cn or to the individual columnists. China Daily reserves the right to edit all letters. Thank you.
- Music at her fingers
- Across America Over the Week (Jan 16 - Jan 22)
- Spend Chinese New Year in style
- Ili river valley becomes a popular destination for swans
- Philip Ma: from scientist to businessman
- Birmingham's Spotlight on China dinner
- How to distinguish doucai, wucai, Famille-rose and enamel porcelain
- Xinjiang lake in bumper fishing season
Most Viewed
Editor's Picks
Premier Li attends Davos Forum |
Li Na expecting first baby |
Star's marriage is 'bittersweet' news for fans |
Infographic:Chinese IPOs in the US in 2014 |
Tale of two cities |
China's 2014 diplomacy |
Today's Top News
Houston's SW Chinatown
China to focus on reforms, opening of capital market
Slowdown brings new risks to banks
Trade group calls for BIT
Market status for China is 'political' issue
Birmingham's Spotlight on China dinner
Bank takes renminbi-clearing seriously
Traditional Garb
US Weekly
Geared to go |
The place to be |