> My university level students are discussing the future of China
> during the next 20 years. The topics that we will cover in the next
> six weeks are
> 1. Business and Economy
> 2. Social Changes
> 3. Environment problems
> 4. World Leadership position of China
> 5. Political and social freedom in this country
> Many students believe that westen countries such as USA and Australia
> are "free", people have the right to freedom of speech....
> Maybe some of you also visit "## ESL Forums". If so, you
> will find that freedom of speech is NOT available or that forum even
> if you follow the posted guidelines. Freedom of speech in the USA is
> a myth! The powers that be can shut you up if they so choose. Be
> aware of this and tell your students the truth about your home
> country.
> Comments welcome.

Hello there,
Private businesses are not democracies, inclu. websites, companies, etc...
I don't quite understand why you are so upset about the fact that websites are run that way... Like any other business/hobby. This is not an attempt to stop "Freedom Of Speech", but if you do not like it, do not go to that website (That is your democratic right).
Privatization: "Genius of capitalism"
AF