Hey look at China

[abaris]

Wuzong ruled in the mid 9th century.

A political move then, a political move now. The Japanese acted in a similar way at the turn of the 16th century. It didn't do them much good, since they simultaneously have chosen splendid isolation. Until the West showed up at their doorstep and made it's demands by having superior weapons.

The China of today combines the worst of both world. An oppressive system and unchained capitalism. Western corporations wet their pants when looking at China, since they already arrived where they want to go. The individual being just a piece of cheap meat to be totally exploited.

I'm sorry, I can't cheer the fact that they crack down on any religious group. It's just tightening the screw of total control.