Can they do that?

[DreadPirateRoberts]

In one of history's more absurd acts of totalitarianism, China has banned Buddhist monks in Tibet from reincarnating without government permission.

more info here (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20227400/site/newsweek/).

[Alex]

If the Dalai Lama truly can direct his own reincarnation then I don't see why not.

[SacTown Chronic]

Check and mate, Dalai Lama.

[Capt Jack]

so like, all he has to do is reincarnate as leader of china and viola. rules changed.

pwnd!!!!

(omg...I expected an Onion article. wth?)

[cirquelover]

This one makes me laugh and be scared at the same time

"an important move to institutionalize management of reincarnation."

How does the Chinese government plan on institutionalizing reincarnation? Are they saying they have some great powers now and can manage who comes back as what!
They'll never have to worry about having enough slave laborers or coal miners they'll just reincarnate a few more!

[Morrigoon]

I get what this is all about... they want the ability to "declare" a Dalai Lama at their convenience and challenge the validity of any monk-declared Dalai Lama. Probably makes it possible to undercut the next Lama's power and legitemacy.

Good luck boys, lemme know how that goes for you.

[SacTown Chronic]

It's good to know America sold her financial soul to such a reasonable government.