Opposing Views

China and Tibet have been in controversy for decades. Tibet is pursuing it’s independence, and China is denying it. According to a school survey, most people are siding with Tibet because they do not know both sides of the story. The statistics did not fluctuate one bit. This research paper does not side with Tibet nor China; it is designed to educate and inform.
Is Tibet better off with or without China? China claims that the Dalai Lama, representing traditional Tibetan culture, is “historically violent and backward, and makes a poor alternative to Chinese administration.” (Tibet 277) Many Chinese officials say that China has greatly influenced Tibet’s economy and culture with their policies. China does not want to let Tibet become free, because they do not want Tibet to turn back into the civilization they once were. Most people will state that Tibet has improved their own culture and economy. However, China is taking credit for making Tibet a more improved region. As you can see, Tibet is begging for freedom, but it may be best for Tibet to be under Chinese rule.
When there is one view, there is always an opposing view. While China is claiming that they are improving Tibet, Tibet believes that China’s policies are taking away from their unique culture, religious traditions, and personal freedom. Tibet also states that the “so-called economic prosperity that China has brought to the region mainly benefits ethnic Han Chinese migrants, not native Tibetans.” (Tibet 277) All in all, both sides of the story seem very powerful. This is why the controversy has been going on for so long, because both sides strongly believe that they are right and will not ever give up.
Another argument between China and Tibet is China’s historical control over Tibet. Because China and Tibet’s history goes back so far, there is no clear evidence that proves how Tibet became a part of China. “The current Chinese Government asserts that Tibet was incorporated into China by a Mongol-led empire during the thirteenth century.” (Tibet 278) However, the Dalai Lama’s view is much different. The Dalai Lama states that the fifth Dalai Lama was politically weak, and this is when China started to influence Tibet. He also states that Tibetans “never regarded Tibet as a part of China.” (Peter Kauffner). Unfortunately, this issue will never be resolved. This is because China and Tibet will never give up, and will always argue over who is right.
As clearly stated above, Tibet and China both have very strong points. This is why the controversy has lasted for decades. Now that you are informed of both sides of the story, it’s time to ask yourself: Who is right, and what will happen in the future? Don’t forget to ponder that there is a new Dalai Lama when the old one dies. This could change a lot of different things.


Kauffner, Peter. "What is the historical basis of the Chinese claim to Tibet?" 10 Oct.
1990 http://stason.org/tularc/travel/tibet/b5-what-is-the-historical-basis-of-the-chinese-claim-to-tib.html.


Tibet, 277-284


Hoyt, Mark, ed. China Terrorizes Tibet [Tibet Fights For Independence]. Digital image. The New York Times. 18 Mar. 2008.