The year of the two-faced internet

I've written about the importance of internet transparency before. It's an issue that does not get nearly enough attention; unless of course international reporters find themselves blocked from websites in Beijing.

Should we really be surprised that the Chinese reneged on their promise to allow reporters unfettered use of the internet? These games have been plagued by contradictions and abuses on the part of Chinese officials before they have even begun. But to say that "banned topics were not part of the athletic events and should not be of interest to reporters anyway" is simply beyond ridiculous.

Chinese nationalism is gaining power with assertions of economic independence and political obstinacy. Neither of these are bad things in themselves but when they inspire autocratic party officials to say anything for gain only to later reverse course then action is needed. Ignoring international opinion is one thing; to spit in its face is another. Continuing coverage simply increases the Chinese officials sense of entitlement and invincability. Print and electronic journalists should pull out and let the games flop on their own images.

Who wants to see choking runners anyway?