[norwaypinesavage]

There is no such thing as a “little bit” of freedom. Once people find out that the dissidents outnumber the controllers, look out!

[ReignOfError]

There is no such thing as a “little bit” of freedom.

I would love to believe that, but the evidence doesn't support it. The People's Republic of China has walked that tightrope for a long time now, and isn't looking like it's gonna topple any time soon.

I agree that the historical pattern is that trade is the thin end of the wedge, and that capitalism usually leads to democracy. China is the counter-case. I retain hope, but not quite faith, that more trade and more contact will bring the tyrants down.

[elhombrelibre]

It’s often said that the smartest, bravest, most daring, and most ambitious have left Cuba and only those too scared, too stupid, or too lazy have stayed. I’m sure that’s false, and I’m sure the Cuban people will be free.