I'm still wondering

The first day in Shanghai was exciting and full of adventures. Apart from being confused for a Chinese several times, I was able to visit a Buddhist temple. The contrast between ancient Chinese traditions and new modern way of living is very interesting.  As I walked around inside the temple the smell of incense filled my lungs and my I felt a peaceful harmony around me.  I looked around and took as many pictures as I could. I wanted to capture that moment forever.  I tried getting a different angle from the middle of the temple, focusing in the centerpiece.  I zoomed in to focus on the details of the figure, that’s when it hit me. I was in the middle of one of the biggest cities in the world.  I saw all the buildings in the background.  This thought stayed in my head all day. How was this incredible country, full of ancient history, has dealt with the tremendous economic growth?

Around 2 p.m. our group met with the Shanghai Overseas Returned Scholars Association (SORSA).  Scholars who studied abroad talked to us about different topics.  One of these topics was economic development.  Since my topic deals with the political structure in China and how it has been changing in the last couple of years I decided to ask this very question.  One scholar said that there is a growing middle class and that democracy would be logical shift in the country.  However, he also said that we have to allow some differences from the East and the West in politics. He said that he didn’t think that the economic growth would lead to a change in government. But he did say that the government has changed over the years.  He said that compared to the when he was growing up, no he now feels free to talk to anyone he wants. He says that there is more freedom.  When I asked him about the future of the political structure in China, he said, that he didn’t think it would change anytime soon.  He is an active member of the Communist party and he says that because China is such a populated country the government is needed to help the people.  I asked him if there was a possibility that communisim in China could collapse just like it happened in the former Soviet Union, he said that it could not happened because the two countries have a very different history. 

So here am I thinking about the history of China as well as the future.  Is there room for culture and tradition in a city that is known for its industries?