[seanmcdirmid]

> 1) Some countries in other parts of the world developed AS democracies, even earlier than Taiwan.

I don't get this point. Sure some countries developed as democracies, but effectiveness is contextual.

> 2) Taiwan has continued to develop and improve most aspects of its living standards since it became a democracy.

No one is arguing here that democracy is not eventually the best form of government, only when democracy is appropriate. Once a country is solidly middle class, I think democracy is a solid win and the people will demand it anyways.