Do you also believe the reports of China's economy shutting down are exaggerated? Or do you think hindering the HK protests was worth shutting down China's daily economy and travel for months?

I clearly said I don't believe it's probable. I'm suggesting that may have been what the other poster was getting at.

But long-term, I think it would be perfectly rational to think that a few months of down economy is worth better PR while nipping some anti-government uprising in the bud, at least to an oppressive government.

A terrible economy with people locked up in their homes while their loved ones die in quarantine is also something that creates anti-government sentiments.

I don't think they care if people like them. They care if people stand up to them.