Why Must We Restrain Our Compassion at KangAi Commune?

Quite a few members criticize the Commune for lacking compassion—some who fell ill during the waiting period were not helped, and some who did not meet the joining criteria were not helped.

In fact, the Commune has given this thought.

On one hand, what the Commune needs most is credibility. We cannot help at will and refuse at will; everything must have a basis. If credibility is lost, we become unsustainable and can help no one.

On the other hand, the Commune's most important risk control is guarding against adverse selection, ensuring that the number of ill people in the Commune always stays in the minority, so that each person's cost-sharing does not become too large. Clearly, people in poor health are more interested in the Commune. And if they were all in poor health, the cost-sharing pressure would be enormous and still unsustainable.

Suppose we helped those who do not meet the joining criteria; that would objectively encourage people who do not qualify to join the mutual aid community as healthy members.

Suppose we helped those who fell ill during the waiting period; then what would be the point of having a waiting period? Would it not encourage more speculation?

So everything is done to uphold the authority and credibility of our system—that is the foundation for helping more people.

We hope those less fortunate can also understand the Commune.