Analyzing the gap with the US in existing development levels can help China see its own weaknesses and motivate it to catch up in both material and spiritual development. But this is not the whole picture. China's growth potential should not be ignored. China's relatively lower development level, which is closely related to its poverty and weaknesses in past centuries, should not be cited as the original sin of the current Chinese system, nor should it be used to demean China's growth path that is working effectively.

When the PRC was founded in 1949, the gap between China and developed countries was immeasurably wide. It is this growth potential that is helping us make a change today.

Since its reform and opening-up, China has managed to narrow the gap with the US, and has been doing this in a way that impresses the entire world. Such a capability should be cited as one of the basic parameters when we compare the Chinese and US political systems.

The US is neither heaven nor hell. China's comparison with the US should not be used as a distorting mirror to ridicule itself. It is never easy for Chinese society to clearly recognize itself. But along with the country's rise, we should be capable of a more accurate and clear self-recognition. This is very important for China's future, and we cannot afford a big mistake in this regard.