Hmmm, it's nice to see a crime report get such prominent coverage in a Chinese newspaper. I can't remember the last time I saw a triple homicide report in China Daily. While this isn't that, it's a step in the right direction.

"it's a step in the right direction" In a sense you are right about transparancy and the freedom of expression. But studies also show that reports about bad news may lead to bad results, with some people imitating the harmful behaviors of those reported, such as suicide, campus shooting, etc. Personally, I feel really bad about the daily report of homicides by Western media.

Chinese media, espeically the Internet-based ones, have etched sensationalism deep into their skin. Unfortunately, this is what the mass loves to read about. As a result, things are often blown out of proportion and take the most unexpected and twisted turns (think "Sister Furong").

"But studies also show that reports about bad news may lead to bad results..."

I'm sure this is true where parental skills and education is lacking. That said, I don't think it's the reason for China's state controlled media presenting an image of 'harmony' to the world; nor is it symptomatic of a healthy society for its leaders to feel compelled to present such a false picture.

"I'm sure this is true where parental skills and education is lacking."

Parental skills and education were not lacking in the case of Chicago campus shooting. The shooter was a graduate student and his supervisors and family were shocked to hear about his shooting maniac.

Besides,those who imitate bad examples highlighted by the media reports are not only minors, but also adults. This can be evidenced by many migrant workers who try to get their salary back by threatening suicide, or by the campus shooters, whom I believe are also adults.

In fact, media unwittingly play the role of an social educator sometimes. If they cannot realize and acknowledge this role, they may play the role of an accomplice in leading to the increase of suicide rates or other social illnesses.

"That said, I don't think it's the reason for China's state controlled media presenting an image of 'harmony' to the world; nor is it symptomatic of a healthy society for its leaders to feel compelled to present such a false picture."

Every society has an ideal to pursue so that the whole society may push forward to that direction. US upholds democracy. China, at present time, needs and upholds harmony.

The media's emphasis on harmony is NOT to impress others, but to gesture toward a direction for the society to follow. It is a guiding principle for people to handle all kinds of affairs, including conflicts.

What is the standard of healthiness for a society? It is still a question too open to be self-evident.