In The Logic of Collective Action, Olsen writes "Patriotism is probably the strongest non-economic motive for organizational allegiance in modern times" (13). In China, nationalism is the rule, and one major object of pride is the new high speed rail system that propels the new upper-middle class between major cities at speeds over 200mph. To many, it represents an industrial revolution. However, when the first tracks were laid, the Chinese were concerned that "steel bands would disrupt the flow of chi." Now, many have lost their lives, health, or loved ones: casualties of the the industrious priorities of a corrupt party ministry.
One victim said, "The main thing I've come to conclude is that we have to teach our children well... We have to teach them to grow up in a democratic society. China is a one-party state. There is no justice here—it's impossible."
This man fantasizes about a state in which people matter because they have votes that matter. Democracy gives citizens some influence over government decisions, but, according to Olsen, perhaps not as much as this man may hope. Even if the Chinese people, wanting basic rights and conscientious leaders, were to form one interest group, it would have many traits that hinder success: great size and minimal, dispersed benefits to each member. The opposing interest group, the party ministry, is a relatively small group, where each member has a great deal to gain in bribes and praise (and will therefore be willing to expend a great deal of rent to maintain possession) by following through untested projects. Inequality of interest group power was exemplified when lawyers were reportedly ordered by the government-run bar not to even take crash cases.
A singular nationalistic mentality no longer describes the attitude of the masses, but there are no institutions to coerce or incentivize this latent group into action.
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