[Cronos]

If China becomes democratic (if a large enough middle class develops it will probably happen!) then Taiwan may ask to rejoin China on their own

Don't hold your breath. China already has a large middle class (larger than the population of the US), but they're pretty content to let the commie Emperors rule (the Chinese have NEVER had a democracy or a republic in their history)

[Dr. Marten]

"the Chinese have NEVER had a democracy or a republic in their history"

That is not an entirely true statement. I suggest you do more reading into the revolution of 1911.

[chilepepper]

The changes in China in the past 20 years have been mindboggling... don't underestimate the imagination of the average Chinese -- these folks are natural born capitalists and are starting to chafe under the rule of the "progressive" Maoist leadership.

For a real eyeopener, check out this web site...

[Quix]

HOWEVER,

I know dozens and dozens of Mid-level Party leaders who are planning to end up with a much more democratic, much less tyrannical, despotic country. They have been shopping around, chewing, endlessly discussing precisely what form of government would be BEST FOR CHINA. These are serious, patriotic people not at all naive to the Party's flaws.

These people are gaining power and position year by year. And, actually, that trend has been largely sanctioned, chosen even by the Central Committee in Beijing.