Noises and Interruptions

This study depicts the extent of the acquisition and consolidation of democratic values in Hong Kong. In attempting to explain the antecedents to the acquisition and consolidation of democratic values, we also examine the findings on the people's assessment of democracy in their governmental system, their sense of empowerment and their perceptions of the responsiveness of the system, their perceptions of the performance of democracy, and their trust in institutions. Finally, the paper gives an account of Hong Kong people's perceptions of the prospects for democracy in Hong Kong. For the people of Hong Kong, democracy embodies the political values that they treasure. The people are attached to liberal values and are making strong demands on the government to guarantee social equality and justice, and to be min-ben. However, the people's commitment to democracy is ambivalent. Some may not find democracy always suitable and preferable due to their concerns about possible conflicts among democratization, economic development and efficiency in governance. In addition, this study uncovers an enormous sense of political powerlessness and frustration among the people.