'Democracy or nothing' is no choice for a better Hong Kong
Franklin Koo says the debate on what Hong Kong needs for a better future has been too narrowly framed from the start. Pro-democracy activists should rethink their method for success
When we were young, we were often taught to solve problems with only one clear and correct answer. There was a reason for that; it was much more efficient, easier to grade, and the solution safeguards against any evaluator harbouring prejudices or subjective views. For instance, we were often given multiple-choice questions.
However, while this method is a cost-efficient way of testing, real-life problems are never solved in such a fashion. The methodology is too simple to account for other important factors and, in many ways, it hinders our ability to make objective and informed judgments.
Consider this question: Please choose one of the following that may lead to a positive future for Hong Kong: A. Fascism; B. Anarchy; C. Democracy.
The majority are likely to choose C, simply because the other alternatives are not desirable for a positive future. However, the framing of the issue has already limited the scope and complexity of other pressing issues. This is a common conceptual problem, leading us to believe that C is the only correct solution for a positive future. But is democracy really what the doctor ordered to cure ailing Hong Kong?
The definition of a "positive future" is different for everyone. A utilitarian would favour happiness; an economist, wealth; a youth may look for steady employment opportunities and affordable living; and, an elderly person, health care, clean air and free space.
Democracy itself is just as unclear. There are pros and cons to it, just like any other form of government. Ironically, even with democracy in 2017, there is currently no leader or candidate in Hong Kong that could win the popular vote. One thing is for sure, universal suffrage does not guarantee a positive future; no democratic country has reached utopia - not even close.
With that in mind, consider the basic underlying argument of the Occupy Central movement based on the following formula: Democracy = A Positive Future for Hong Kong. This is the foundation of the protests and the essence of what demonstrators are fighting for. However, democracy cannot be switched on with a simple push of a button, so supporters believe civil disobedience is required, so this formula has evolved into: Democracy + Civil Disobedience = A Positive Future for Hong Kong.
