Rule breakers snap society

Beijing, Athens and Rome have much in common. All have lots of history and remain the political and cultural centers of their countries.

Unfortunately, China's capital shares a less savory feature with its present-day Greek and Italian sister cities, namely the disregard the locals display toward rules governing day-to-day conduct.

Many in the West see China as a tightly controlled and disciplined country. Expatriates who've lived here for many years know better.