A list of 100 patriotic songs for middle school students released on Wednesday has led to debate about how patriotic education should be carried out, as it features songs that appear to encourage individualism rather than dedication to society.

Sources at the Shanghai Municipal Education Commission said it is the first time that a government agency has compiled such a list. It recommended the songs for middle school students on March 16, local media reported. 

Several Hong Kong and Taiwan pop songs made an appearance, including "Snail" by Taiwan star Jay Chow, "The Chinaman" sung by renowned Hong Kong performer Andy Lau and "Real Hero" written by Taiwan's hottest composer Jonathan Lee.

Most controversial are the lyrics to "Snail,” which encourage young people to pursue their own success regardless of difficulties they may encounter. This is a departure from traditional patriotic songs that endorse selflessness, collectivism and heroism. Most of these come from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. 

Bai Lei, a renowned local composer, argues that individual success cannot be regarded as patriotism because that should be defined as unselfish behavior. 

However, Jay Han, a young local music critic defended the inclusion of Jay Chow’s song. "Seeking personal success will contribute to the overall development of society. So it is patriotism in a broader sense and should be included," he said. 

According to Yu Zhen, an official with Shanghai’s Education Commission, a panel of middle school teachers, artists and experts helped compile the list. She stood by their selection, but added, "The list is not a final one, and is open to criticism and suggestions from students, teachers and parents."

Zhang Mengnuan, a second-grade student from a top senior high school, said, "Though I have been an enthusiastic singer since I was five, I always get bored when singing patriotic songs of my mother's, or even my grandma's, generation."

A fan of Hong Kong and Taiwan pop songs, Zhang thought she would be more attentive when teachers use these more contemporary songs. "This is not only my view. It is shared by the majority of high school students," she said. 

Tao Ronglin, a senior English teacher at Weiyu Middle School, thinks Jay Chow's behavior does not make him a healthy role model for teenagers, and that his songs should not be included in the list.

However, Tao said he is not generally against pop songs from Hong Kong and Taiwan.
He added, "Zhang Mingmin's 'My Chinese Heart' is a 100 percent patriotic song and I am very happy it is in the list."

However, Joe Chen, a young female music teacher at a local high school, thought otherwise.

Including Jay Chow's song in the list shows adults' respect for children, something that has not always been emphasized in China’s education system, she said.

Wang Yueping, an expert from the Education Commission's art academic research office, explained the songs were chosen because of their inspiring lyrics and beautiful melodies.

(China Daily March 18, 2005)