The Curse of Authoritarian Nostalgia

"Men at some time are masters of their fates; The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings" - Shakespeare, Julius Caesar

Within the visually captivating world of Zhang Yimou’s “Curse of the Golden Flower,” is a theme that hits close to home as Asians – nostalgia for authoritarian rule. Hence, I will utilize this cinematic masterpiece as a gateway for a nuanced exploration of contemporary authoritarian nostalgia in the Asian region. Moreover, as I delve deeper into the film, I will unravel the enduring allure of authoritarianism, where yearning for the grandiosity of imperial eras often obscures the oppressive realities that defined them, which continues to exert its influence on present-day East Asian societies. Thus, in this essay, I will discuss its parallels with the reality, dissect the film’s depiction of authoritarianism, the mechanisms of nostalgia and their implications for East Asian societies in order to understand the region’s current socio-political landscape.

Set against the backdrop of ancient China in the year A.D. 928, the film explores the disintegration of a marital bond between an autocratic emperor and his unfaithful wife. The New York Times, in a poignant movie review, characterizes their union as "so corrupt that each is plotting the other’s annihilation" (The New York Times, 2006). The underlying question arises: what motivates these schemes aimed at each other's downfall?

“Acquiring a state and maintaining it requires evil means...” - Niccolò Machiavelli

The catalyst for these Machiavellian maneuvers appears to be a complex interplay of political dynamics within the marital relationship, manifesting as an emergent power struggle. Both individuals harbor a fervent desire to perpetuate their reign in power, irrespective of the ethical costs. This portrayal finds resonance in a case outlined by Chu et al. (2008) in their book "How East Asians View Democracy," specifically within Chang and Chu’s exploration of citizen perspectives on Taiwan's democracy.

In 2008, Chang and Chu provided insights into the challenging presidency of Chen Shui-bian. When Chen came to power, he did not  have majority support in the elections, and his party was a minority in the parliament. This created a power vacuum and led to conflicts with opposing lawmakers, especially those from the KMT and the People First Party. As a result, legislation proposed by Chen’s party, the DPP, faced obstruction.

The response from the DPP government was retaliatory, creating a parallel to the Machiavellian dynamics seen in ancient Chinese settings. Confronted with a challenging circumstance marked by a limited mandate and a legislature dominated by an adversarial opposition, Chen struggled to demonstrate effective leadership and, regrettably, turned to manipulating ethnic tensions and eventually succumbing to corruption. This highlights how political ambitions, much like in historical contexts, can cause discord even in the closest relationships within a government. The reference to “Machiavellian dynamics” suggests that the political maneuvering and strategic actions in this scenario resembled the cunning and manipulative tactics often associated with the political philosophy of Niccolò Machiavelli (Chang & Chu, 2008).

However, the power struggle depicted in the movie serves as more than just a narrative device; it mirrors a stark reality within the political landscape. The focus of this essay, however, extends beyond the movie’s plot dynamics. It delves into the critical question: why do people in East Asian countries continue to embrace the concept of authoritarianism, even when it is typically portrayed in films as Machiavellian and, though fictional, reflective of genuine historical occurrences?

Within the same comprehensive work authored by Chu et al. (2008), specifically in the article "Comparative Perspectives on Democratic Legitimacy in East Asia," a troubling revelation surfaces regarding the state of East Asian democracies. The crux of the issue lies in what is termed as once again, "authoritarian nostalgia." According to Chu et al. (2008), these emerging democracies in East Asia grapple with a collective yearning for the era of authoritarian rule, particularly in instances where past soft-authoritarian regimes seemed successful in fostering economic growth.

Figure 1.1 . Chang, Y. T., Zhu, Y., & Pak, C. M. (2007). Authoritarian Nostalgia in Asia. Journal of Democracy, 18(3), 66–80. https://doi.org/10.1353/jod.2007.0043

Countries such as Thailand, the Philippines, and Taiwan exemplify this phenomenon, where a substantial portion of the population harbors skepticism about the efficacy of democracy and retains an emotional attachment to the authoritarian past (Chu et al., 2008). This nuanced exploration unveils the complexities of historical sentiments and contemporary political disillusionment, shedding light on the persistent allure of authoritarianism in the East Asian political psyche.

As it is widely recognized, authoritarian nostalgia encapsulates a yearning for the stability and order linked to autocratic regimes, despite their historical association with repression and the lack of political freedoms. In the context of "Curse of the Golden Flower," a potential connection to this rising nostalgia for authoritarianism lies in its Imperial China setting. The film unfolds during the Tang Dynasty in ancient China, an era renowned for its imperial governance. The lavish and majestic palace, structured with strict hierarchies, serves as a testament to the power and authority wielded by the imperial family. This historical period may evoke nostalgia for an era marked by the dominance of formidable dynasties.

Furthermore, the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) is often romanticized as one of the most prosperous and culturally vibrant periods in Chinese history, characterized by centralized authority, extensive territorial control, and a refined bureaucratic system. While the film primarily unfolds as a historical drama, its idealized portrayal of the Tang Dynasty and other imperial eras might indirectly fuel a yearning for robust, centralized leadership in contemporary China especially that the region embraces the "Asian values," which prioritize group over individual interests, authority over liberty, and duties over rights.

In Taiwan, the enduring impact of authoritarian rule, particularly during the martial law era led by the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT), remains a pivotal historical influence. The KMT's iron-fisted governance, spearheaded by Chiang Kai-shek and later his son Chiang Ching-kuo, is nostalgically viewed by some in Taiwan for its perceived stability and economic progress. A belief persists among certain segments of the population that strong centralized leadership was instrumental in Taiwan's rapid growth.

Conversely, Thailand has grappled with recurrent periods of military rule and coups, fostering the view to some that authoritarian governance is a necessary means to maintain order and prevent political turmoil. The country's deep-seated reverence for the monarchy further contributes to a form of authoritarian nostalgia, as strong respect for the monarchy in the country adds to the urge of wanting a strong leader, as the monarchy is closely tied to the political system and keeps traditional social structures intact.

Whereas in the Philippines, the era of Ferdinand Marcos, marked by authoritarian rule and martial law from 1972 to 1986, is remembered by certain segments of the population for its perceived order and stability. Despite widespread corruption and human rights abuses, there is nostalgia for the Marcos era, associating it with strong centralized rule and economic development due to the massive infrastructures built under his regime.

The allure of authoritarianism in East Asia may again, also find its roots in deeply ingrained Asian values, particularly those rooted in Confucian traditions. Confucianism, with its historical significance, places a strong emphasis on hierarchical relationships and reverence for authority. Its values advocate for a social order where individuals assume specific roles and responsibilities dictated by their status and position within the family, society, and government. This hierarchical perspective poses a potential challenge to the democratic principles of equality and individual rights, which might be perceived as eroding traditional authority structures.

Moreover, Confucianism introduces the concept of filial piety, underscoring the significance of respecting and obeying authority figures, especially parents and rulers. This cultural value can foster a disposition toward deference to authority, making it difficult for individuals to challenge or question the decisions of government leaders—a crucial element of democratic participation.

In the context of "Curse of the Golden Flower," the influence of Confucian traditions and their impact on authoritarian nostalgia can be observed through the film's portrayal of the imperial setting during the Tang Dynasty in ancient China. The opulent and majestic palace, governed by strict hierarchical structures, reflects the Confucian emphasis on hierarchical relationships and respect for authority. The hierarchical outlook depicted in the movie, mirroring Confucian values, contributes to the grandeur of the imperial family and the centralized authority they wield. This portrayal aligns with the traditional Confucian social order, where individuals have specific roles and responsibilities based on their status and position within the family, society, and government.

Furthermore, the concept of filial piety in Confucianism, which stresses the importance of respecting and obeying authority figures, resonates with the dynamics within the imperial family. The characters in the film, bound by familial and societal expectations, navigate their roles with a sense of duty and deference to authority. This cultural backdrop in "Curse of the Golden Flower" underscores how Confucian values, embedded in the narrative, can contribute to a nostalgic perception of authoritarian rule, wherein the hierarchical structures of power are upheld and revered.

However, despite all of these sentiments, it is crucial to acknowledge and scrutinize the potential drawbacks and criticisms associated with authoritarian nostalgia. Authoritarian regimes, often lauded for their perceived stability, frequently trample on fundamental human rights, including freedom of speech, assembly, and the press. Critics argue that nostalgic sentiments for authoritarianism tend to overlook or dismiss the extensive human rights abuses prevalent under such systems.

For example, during Indonesia's Suharto Regime (1967-1998), strict control over the media and suppression of political dissent were pervasive. Independent journalism faced severe censorship, and any critique of the government resulted in harsh consequences. State control over newspapers and media outlets curtailed freedom of expression. Beyond anti-communist purges, reports of torture, forced disappearances, and imprisonment of political activists were widespread, overshadowing the rule of law with the military's dominance (Human Rights Watch, 2008).

“Under Suharto’s “New Order” regime, Indonesian society became progressively militarized, with the Indonesian armed forces playing an increasingly prominent role as a social and political force. Throughout his rule, Suharto viciously suppressed any sign of anti-government unrest or separatist ambition.” - Human Rights Watch

In the Philippines, Martial Law under Ferdinand Marcos (1972-1981) ushered in a period of political repression and rampant human rights violations. Declared in 1972, martial law allowed President Marcos to rule by decree, leading to the suppression of political opposition and critics. Those perceived as threats faced arrest, detention, and torture, with the military and police wielding unchecked powers.

Figure 1.2. https://news.abs-cbn.com/focus/09/21/18/by-the-numbers-human-rights-violations-during-marcos-rule

In Taiwan, under martial law during the "White Terror" campaign (1949-1987), led by Chiang Kai-shek and later his son Chiang Ching-kuo, political repression involved mass arrests, imprisonment, and execution of suspected opponents and critics. Thailand's strict lèse-majesté law, prohibiting criticism of the monarchy, has been used to silence dissent, leading to arrests and imprisonment. The nation's history is marked by pro-democracy protests, some met with violent suppression by authorities, resulting in casualties. The implications of authoritarian nostalgia must be critically examined in light of these historical instances of human rights abuses (Shattuck, 2017).

In conclusion, the exploration of authoritarian nostalgia within the context of "Curse of the Golden Flower" provides a lens through which we can scrutinize the broader implications of such sentiments in East Asian societies. The allure of authoritarianism, depicted in the film's imperial setting during the Tang Dynasty, resonates with historical Confucian values and hierarchical structures, contributing to a romanticized perception of strong centralized leadership. However, it is imperative to approach authoritarian nostalgia with a critical eye, recognizing its potential drawbacks and the shadows it casts on democratic principles. As illustrated by historical examples in Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Thailand, the pursuit of stability under authoritarian rule often comes at the expense of fundamental human rights and democratic values. The suppression of dissent, censorship of the media, and widespread human rights abuses are recurrent themes in the narratives of these nations during periods of authoritarian governance.

In the echoes of Shakespeare's wisdom, "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings," resonates a profound truth about the allure of authoritarian nostalgia in East Asia. The desire for authority and the acceptance of being under its influence are not dictated by external forces or historical inevitabilities but are conscious choices made by the individuals and societies in the region. Therefore, this is a curse that we have self-inflicted. With this realization, it empowers us to confront the roots of such yearnings, acknowledging that the path to autonomy lies not in the stars or the past, but within ourselves. By recognizing our agency in shaping political landscapes, I believe that we could unearth the potential for transformative change, transcending the undercurrents of nostalgia to forge a future guided by the principles of individual empowerment and collective self-determination.

References:

Catsoulis, J. (2006, December 20). Curse of the Golden Flower - Movies - Review. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/21/movies/21flow.html\

Chang, Y. T., Chu, Y. H., & Park, C. M. (2007). Authoritarian nostalgia in Asia. J. Democracy, 18, 66.

Chu, Y. H., Diamond, L., Nathan, A. J., & Shin, D. C. (Eds.). (2008). How east Asians view democracy. Columbia University Press.

Chu, Y., Diamond, L., Nathan, A. & Shin, D. (2008). 1. Introduction: Comparative Perspectives on Democratic Legitimacy in East Asia. In Y. Chu, L. Diamond, A. Nathan & D. Shin (Ed.), How East Asians View Democracy (pp. 1-38). New York Chichester, West Sussex: Columbia University Press. https://doi.org/10.7312/chu-14534-003

Indonesia: Suharto’s Death a Chance for Victims to Find Justice. (2020, October 28). Human Rights Watch. https://www.hrw.org/news/2008/01/27/indonesia-suhartos-death-chance-victims-find-justice

Shattuck, T. J. (2017). Taiwan’s White Terror: Remembering the 228 Incident - Foreign Policy Research Institute. Foreign Policy Research Institute. https://www.fpri.org/article/2017/02/taiwans-white-terror-remembering-228-incident/

Figures:

1.1 Chang, Y. T., Zhu, Y., & Pak, C. M. (2007). Authoritarian Nostalgia in Asia. Journal of Democracy, 18(3), 66–80. https://doi.org/10.1353/jod.2007.0043

1.2. BY THE NUMBERS: Human rights violations during Marcos' rule. (2018, September 21). ABS-CBN News. https://news.abs-cbn.com/focus/09/21/18/by-the-numbers-human-rights-violations-during-marcos-rule