Seduced by fame, fortune

Whether the Chinese athletes in the current drug incident took the banned drugs willingly or unknowingly, the incident has dealt a great blow to China's reputation in the international arena. Furthermore, a dark shadow has been cast on China's achievements in world sports.

We believe that most of the Chinese athletes who took the drugs did so under the seduction of fame and fortune. Ever since China opened up, the Chinese people have seen many opportunities come their way after years of poverty. The over-emphasis on materialism leads to the deterioration of moral values.

This is reflected not only in the economic field, but also in culture, society and sports. In its pursuit of economic growth, China should not neglect its culture, education and spiritual progress which have a far greater impact upon society. A country that turns to unscrupulous methods in order to succeed will lose respect and its reputation.

-- Lianhe Zaobao, Hong Kong