Whom we choose as role model tells much about us. For years tech executives, politicians, academics, and athletes praised China’s tyranny. “It gets things done.” Indeed it does: Lockdowns, house arrest of millions, zero civil rights, countless deaths.

But there is silence from China lovers. It’s bad enough that they don’t want to insult their paymaster. It’s even worse that they tacitly approve, even admire, such ruthless totalitarian control. Of course, they see themselves as members of the Central Committee, not as helpless peasants like you and me. Yes, our role model tells a lot about us.