The great motherland has never been in lack of so-called "civilization!" What we are lacking in now are the systems and the laws to protect this civilization. An unprotected civilization is just like virtue, which we are all calling for - everyone talks about it, but no one believes in it! Virtue can only make those with virtue become good people, but a good system can make everyone become a good person! So, that's why we're a country with an ancient civilization, but not a civilized China. more ›

American comedian/actor Aziz Ansari (Tom Haverford on NBC's Parks and Recreation) is visiting Shanghai this week with Parks and Recreation screenwriter Alan Yang (pictured). No gigs or anything, just a vacation. He's already done the obligatory meet and greet with Haibao and eaten an unhealthy amount of our city's famous soup dumplings. As his Twitter bio suggests, Aziz "likes food a lot." He also likes cocktails. He's got a little more time in Shanghai, so if you have any recommendations for either, leave them in a comment. more ›

• Looking for a good laugh this week? Check out ChopSchticks Comedy this Thursday and Friday. Headlined by Dennis Regan (appearances on The Tonight Show and David Letterman) and opening by Ryan Conner this show at Number 5 Bistro promises a hilarious night out. [City Weekend]
• Also appearing in Shanghai is New Zealand comedian Ray Bon Kan (yes, he's bffs with Flight of the Conchords). He'll be at Malones on Thursday at 8pm. Figures one of the few times Shanghai has a bunch of comedians play, they force you to choose between them. [Shanghai Talk]
• Pollution levels were (shockingly) higher than usual, according to recent reports. Apparently for the past 3 days we have experienced poorer air quality than any other time of the year and yet, oddly enough, it doesn't seem to be bothering people like pollution normally does. Perhaps we're all just used to it by now? [Shanghai Daily]

If you're feeling warm and generous, there's multiple chances to give back to the community this week, be it through flea market shopping, beer drinking, or wine tasting. After you stimulate the social economy a bit, indulge your international side with writers from Ireland, a comedian from New Zealand, and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. more ›