US political drama tells much about us

TV drama rattles notions about US politics

Rendezvous with power

Over the years, Chinese researchers have looked at factors that drive public office holders down the treacherous road. One such study has summed up 10 common personality traits that prompted hundreds of Chinese officials to become corrupt. They include a strong need for power, greed, a need for instant gratification, jealousy, risk-taking and expectation of returns. Some officials have more than one such trait, which made their corrupt behavior more aggressive and damaging.

Because of such similarities that transcend borders and ideologies, House of Cards holds up a mirror to Chinese officials on how human weaknesses such as greed and self-centeredness can send them over the cliff, especially when they have unchecked power.

As a primer of the US political system, it may also offer other useful lessons, like a better understanding of the duties of legislators when they serve as advocates for the views and needs of their constituents, although in the show, power plays and self-interest lead congressmen to betray their people.

The reminders have come at an opportune time. Starting early next month, thousands of representatives across the country will come to the Chinese capital to attend the annual meetings of the National People's Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which are China's top legislature and political advisory body.

Although the two sessions this year are expected to focus on reform and a slew of new, bold policies to improve people's livelihoods, corruption remains a top concern in China, ahead of food safety and second only to social welfare on people's wish lists for their representatives, according to a recent official survey.

It's getting harder to be an NPC deputy not only because of a public that is vigilant about corruption. Those who don't show up at discussions, seldom present a proposal or have never voted against a motion often stir ire among people who expect their deputies to be more proactive in the political decision-making process and vocal on policy debates.

For those officials who have not binge-watched the drama, its lessons and morals may boil down to two things: Be clean and solve problems for your people.

The author is editor-at-large of China Daily.

Contact the writer at dr.baiping@gmail.com.