Is it just me, or does it seem like China's control issues mask deeper feelings of insecurity? Or maybe they're just very, very Type A.
I mean, yes you're Communist, we get it. But some of the Olympics Games-centered regulations border on the ridiculous. Most bizarre is the government-sanctioned cheer routine, which they hope all Olympic Games attendees will adhere to, foreign and domestic. (There's even going to be a training session so no one screws it up.)
And once you can control unruly spectators wishing to shout the occasional "woo hoo," it's a very small step to China's most outlandish guarantee that they will also control the weather. Most useless? The government issued pamphlet listing government-sanctioned English language translations for local menu items. Wouldn't want to get too authentic when visiting a foreign country.
On the serious side, the Chinese government is also insisting that foreign journalists hire government-sanctioned translators. Oh, and those with mental or communicable illnesses (like AIDS? a cold?) will not be let in, whether they're holding a ticket to the Games or not.
I've asked around for public opinion, but most people just shrug it off. It will be interesting to see what transpires.
