Comment: I liked the article.    Gerson does a good job of seeing some of the problems with authoritarian regimes, they don't work well in the long run.  There's clearly a point in weak or failing government that makes room for a strong armed leader that promises they can fix things if they just trust in them.     It sells, the frustration with indecision slows.   But in the long run, the price for calm, become stifling censorship, reduced creativity, less innovation and eventually, well, Korea.

It's important to know how leadership styles can effect human behaviors.  Gerson is pointing out 'central control' does not embrace the creative energy of a more open society.

A voice against authoritarian control, and support for functional alliances that discourage suppression and encourages cooperation, what's not to like?