And I don’t really see the “problem” with that, insomuch as realpolitik is definitely a thing. The US “cheats” other countries in the same way for its own influence and goals, but living here it’s wrapped up in a cultural superiority complex by our principles which while one may agree with them, are only exercised in as much as they keep the idea flowing. Exceptionalism only really works when you’re exceptional, and in many ways we do things worse.

That said, I’d not want to live under a Chinese culture and it’s Confuscianistic rules.

> Exceptionalism only really works when you’re exceptional

We’re contrasting a democracy and a dictatorship. Each can be cruel. But one is more stable than the other.

I'm honestly not so sure thats what is being constrasted. Its more of a hard-capitalism (as little state power as possible with exceptions) vs soft-socialism (a lot of state power and planning, with some affordances to private industry) thing in my mind.