Voting for the first lady or president? Taiwanese election culture

Finally, the result of our next president came out smoothly and peacefully. Some may feel relaxed and happy; while some may feel frustrated and angry. No mater what, at least, we can get rid of those election news and go back to our normal lives.

"Man is by nature a political animal" said by Aristotle. Based my observation, I found that Taiwanese become really irrational and frenzied when it comes to politics, especially the biggest election of the country, the presidential election. In this campaign, our first lady, Chow Mei-Ching, was seen as a trump card by KMT. My mom canvassed me to vote for Ma because she is a big fan of Chow. Moreover, the famous poet, Yu Kuang-chung (余光中), asked "Does the public really want a new first lady?" I think this is a very interesting phenomenon, but it seems like a successful strategy. Today let's discuss the special election culture in Taiwan.


Reading Material:
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/editorials/archives/2011/12/19/2003521079

Discussing Questions:
1. In general, voters could be separated into three categories: the first group is the advocates of KMT, the second group is the advocates of DPP and the last group is the median voters. Which group do you fall into? Why?
2. Do you think the behavior of first family really matter? Does that influence your decision?
3. Have you seen any other weird election phenomenons? Please share with us.
4. What the pros and cons of the democracy? If you have a chance to choose, would you like to live in a democratic or a communist country? Why?