Chinese police have Tiananmen Square on virtual lockdown to prevent protests commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the student massacre there today. Meanwhile, the Dalai Lama also paid his respects to victims.

(photo by Stuart Franklin Magnum, life.com)

Remember that picture?

There is much to ponder here. The Chinese government is such an interesting case study. One of my main questions, which I’d love to hear comments on, is why have historical Socialist countries been not so talented at preserving and fostering the free speech of their citizens? There doesn’t seem to be anything inherent to the system of Socialism which would make suppression of expression necessary. Or is there? Does a government controlling the means of production and distribution – which provides many benefits like health care and education – mean that the government also has to try to control the way people think and move?