Thaindian News

Beijing, Aug 13 (IANS) The London Olympics have given the Chinese “a new thinking of who we are and what the world is”, said a state-run Chinese daily Monday.

An article “Olympics reflects China’s true character” in the Global Times said that Olympics “offered Chinese people happiness and food for thought”.

“In this platform for world competition, Chinese people have acquired a new thinking of who we are and what the world is,” it said.

The daily said that competition among countries attracts dedicated efforts from athletes. “It is difficult to imagine an Olympics holding its competitions on any other basis than between countries.”

China ranked second in both the gold medal and total medal tally, after the US.

“The majority of Chinese aren’t upset about the result. Despite domestic media’s censures of `over-worshipping gold medals’, few Chinese really support the idea of winning gold medals at any price,” it explained.

The daily was quick to add that while it is a sports competition, “the Olympic Games is also a contest of national strength”.

Stating that this is “not a bad thing”,” it said: “The ancient Olympics had the goal of replacing war with sports competitions. In the modern era, Olympics has a far greater meaning.”

It went on to say that compared with the Beijing Olympic Games of four years ago, China now has more dynamic and diversified media. “This is a sign of progress.”

“When the West made accusations following Chinese athletes’ performances, some thought too much weariness against the West reflected a narrow nationalism.”

“Perhaps the right attitude also needs time to take root. This Olympic Games has reflected a China with confusing values. But there are also positive debates, which will lead the country forward.

“It was a fortnight when China witnessed both achievements and confusion. It is foolish to look down on oneself, though overconfidence might be worse. The Olympics is like a mirror, in which China should look at itself clearly,” the daily added.