Reply #7: China Just Has a Strong Central Government

[On the Road]

like they've had for over 2000 years. As far as caring for the needs of the average citizen, there's less of a safety net in China than most capitalist countries -- again, a long tradition. For example, even during the cultural revolution, health insurance did not extend to the spouse or family of government employees, even if they were Communist party members.

I have a general impression that Vietnam is more like Cuba, and more attentive to its citizens' needs.