Reply #1: Now wait. You're saying that China is overtaking us because . . .

[MrModerate]

Americans display affection in public? And brag about how big our cars are or how we cut the perfect business deal last week?

Whether one is appalled by such behaviors or not, you're going to have to explain lots more before I buy the notion that these are substantial disadvantages in competing with the Chinese.

Now "restraint, modesty, and suppression of one's ego" -- which in a Chinese context translates into suppression of one's self in favor of the powerful few, does not lead to excellence or superior competitiveness. Just more efficient ant farms.

Please expand on your assertion.