In a recent public forum hosted by my organization, former deputy operations director of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Alex Tsui Ka-kit, shared his thoughts on political development and the intense politicalization of civil life. Tsui worried the "Occupy Central" plan would plunge society into chaos. He was pessimistic about political development because he thought some social activists might want to widen political discord in Hong Kong society. Another guest speaker, Chu Kar-kin, a well-known commentator, expressed his support for the police in dealing with the Mong Kok melee and criticized the disorderly conduct of primary school teacher Alpais Lam Wai-Sze, who shouted obscenities at the police and sparked the protest on Aug 4.

As British author Charles Dickens wrote in his 1859 classic, A Tale of Two Cities: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness." While some social activists and supporters might feel disconnected from Beijing and dissatisfied with political development in Hong Kong, a majority of local citizens are irritated by activists, who persist in acting as "intolerable nuisances". Based on my observation, there is a stark division between two ideologically opposed camps, descending into the political infighting and mass mobilization. Mutual criticisms and class struggles seemingly erode the traditional humanistic values and moral virtues that our past Chinese generations cling to.

Tsui talked of his own childhood at the forum. He avoided using words containing foul language after being punished by the school teacher when he was little. He was particularly grateful to his teacher for changing this bad habit, and his parents for unsurpassed companionship, for tender and loving care. It seems that our contemporary society has lost its temper and has failed to live in peace and harmony. Our city might not work properly as it is no longer superseded by good values such as self-discipline, mutual respect and patience, which is a vehicle for unity, synergy and continuous improvement.

In my belief, the art of local politics is to add the fragrance of human and social values with a light touch, not to bathe in it. As the saying goes, "perfume is lovely until it is too strong and lingers on your clothes". Unfortunately, since the opposition parties overdo it and wear too much, it is currently making the odor even worse. If our people are compromised with these sensitive elements and "cherished fake memories", we may not smell the competition in the neighborhood. Ultimately, Hong Kong will not be able to preserve its sweet smells and gratifying senses.

As American poet James Russell Lowell once said: "Compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof; it is temporary expedient, often wise in party politics, almost sure to be unwise in statesmanship." It is wise for our Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying to uphold precious traditional values and give up making compromise to the destructive political struggles that would paralyze the governmental offices and the Legislative Council. In fact, Leung showed his affirmative action in defending the police and ICAC, which are regarded as two powerful vehicles for maintaining order. I highly support Leung's actions as we need to lighten the fragrance of politicalization to create relaxing air for the betterment and fairness of society. Otherwise, our police and ICAC will be vulnerable to the destructive political struggles. To uphold our traditional values, we need to stop our police and ICAC from being undermined by unconstrained individuals with political motives.

As our traditional and moral virtues are eroded, so will be our city's vibrant power. We need consensual politics that is fostered by confined compromise. Unfortunately, based on my observation, the opposition parties never give up wearing excessive perfume, which is offensive to many rational political and social leaders, making many people "nauseous" and removing common grounds for further discussion. Being a scholar in Decision Sciences, I believe people can only talk in a positive mood and agree more easily when there is mutual respect and trust. Without proper attention to the traditional Chinese values, it is difficult for opposition parties to make a pleasant scent to convince others.

The author is the chief convener of Protect Central Campaign.

(HK Edition 09/13/2013 page9)