One of the methods by which we can gauge the economic might and influence of a country is the effect a foreign country has on the internal affairs of another country.  Today, we are witnessing just such a power move.  In South Africa, Bishop Desmond Tutu is being celebrated on his 80th birthday.  Dignitaries from around the world were invited.  According to a report on National Public Radio (NPR), the Dali Lama was refused a visa to enter South Africa as a threat even though he received a personal invitation from Desmond Tutu.  This is the equivalent of the United States refusing entry to an invited guest of Benjamin Franklin or Alexander Hamilton.   As the Chinese are feeling more secure in their economic might, it appears they are using that power to further their political agenda.  China – whose GDP is currently about 1/3 of the US’s – is expected to catch up with us in the next ten years.  Will such shows of power become commonplace?  What will our thoughts concerning that global order be?  I wonder…