Lately, I’ve been paying close attention to the state of social freedom, especially freedom of speech. In China’s political environment, citizens may appear to have access to the internet and the ability to express opinions, but these freedoms are actually tightly controlled. The relationship between media, businesses, and government is complex and intertwined, and companies often participate in managing public opinion and citizens’ behavior under government pressure.
I use the term “Later Qing” as a metaphor. It’s a satirical way to describe a certain trend: on the surface, society seems open and free, and people seem to have choices in their careers or expressions, but in reality, power has become centralized. The government controls citizens indirectly through corporations. Companies, with government approval, can force workers to labor 12-14 hours a day in two shifts, leaving individuals with no real choice. What appears as “freedom” in such a system is often just a facade—a form of illusion.
This reminds me of the biblical reminder about truth and freedom: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)
When power becomes overly concentrated and corporations act as enforcers of the state, individual freedom and dignity can be stripped away. People may live in a society that looks free, yet feel trapped in invisible cages, working hard and following rules without truly being able to choose their own lives.
“Later Qing” is not only a historical metaphor but also a warning: societies must be vigilant against freedoms being formalized and personal rights being stripped away. Even in technologically advanced and seemingly open societies, true freedom comes from citizens’ ability to choose their lives and express themselves, not from a fake freedom imposed by power or economic forces.
I share this because I hope to remind everyone: freedom of speech is not guaranteed, and what appears to be freedom can hide enormous control and oppression. Only by safeguarding truth, conscience, and dignity can society avoid sliding into a “Later Qing” state.
