Overview

Despite Chinese efforts to stop foreign countries from granting him visas, the Dalai Lama has become one of the most recognizable and best loved people on the planet, drawing enormous crowds wherever he goes.

Contrast with Chinese Leaders

By contrast, China’s charismatically-challenged leaders attract crowds of protestors waving Tibetan flags and shouting "Free Tibet!" whenever they visit foreign countries.

Western Perspectives

By now most Westerners probably think they understand the political situation in Tibet. But, John Powers argues, most Western scholars of Tibet evince a bias in favor of one side or the other in this continuing struggle.

Emotional Rhetoric

Some of the most emotionally charged rhetoric, says Powers, is found in studies of Tibetan history narratives.