Journalism with Chinese characteristics

Communism in China is often changed and adapted to fit the needs of the ruling class. This is referred to as communism (or socialism) with Chinese characteristics.

Microsoft’s statement in support of it’s canning of a Chinese journalist’s blog on MSN Space sounds suspiciously familiar:

“MSN is committed to ensuring that products and services comply with global and local laws, norms and industry practices. Most countries have laws and practices that require companies providing online services to make the Internet safe for local users. Occasionally, as in China, local laws and practices require consideration of unique elements,” the representative said.

“Unique elements” like no freedom of speech. “Unique elements” like jailing people who think differently than you. “Unique elements” like polluting villages. “Unique elements” like then shooting the villagers who protest.

Disgusting.

Scoble is right on