Light of knowledge key to human rights issue

• Source: Global Times
• [04:31 November 19 2009]
• Comments

The issue of human rights is no exception. Despite being a concept China imported from the West a century ago, respect for human rights is in essence a value universal to all civilizations.

By successfully feeding a quarter of the world's population, China has taken an essential first step on its socialist journey toward the "free and all-round development" of human beings.

But the dynamic Chinese experience with human rights has been met with mixed feelings in the West.

While calling for China to take an international leadership role to resolve global problems, some groundlessly blame China for violations of human rights. The conflict in their position demonstrates deep-rooted disrespect for China.

In a world that is fast-changing and increasingly intertwined, it is vital for both the East and the West to truly respect each other and start the mutual learning process afresh. What is needed now is constructive dialogue on human rights, not preaching and criticism.

As Leibniz said, the world's future will be brighter only when the "lamps" of all civilizations are lit.