You hit the nail on the head. The idea that the internet is a magic pill that will instantly make people rebel is pure Western hubris. Real exposure often acts as a process of demystification. When you see the toxic polarization, housing crises, and social decay firsthand, it doesn't breed rebellion. Instead, it serves as a reality check, making people appreciate the safety and stability back home. True confidence comes from comparison, not isolation
In my early exposure to a fully capitalist society, I also questioned China's system, believing it had many problems. However, the more I learned about foreign countries, the less I realized that China's problems were no longer problems at all 😂