I'm not sure why this got down voted. While I do think some of the Chinese methodologies/laws are a bit extreme, we have similar punishments and rules in the United States. Certain felonies cause people to lose the right to vote or own guns. Companies can perform background checks and not hire you based on criminal record as well. You can also be denied loans and housing based on a numerous amount of factors. Go apply for a house loan and see how invasive that is.

In regards to the comment on shaming, we are very horrible about that. The moment you are arrested/jailed, a nice little mugshot of you appears on the internet. This all despite the fact that you have not yet been tried and convicted.

I think in the U.S. we should also be challenging our own moral compass a bit more.

I've always found that really incomprehensible as well - it's not something that is allowed here (legally) and it seems like it's basically just mean and nothing else. Why does that even happen?