Chinese mothers

Before we decide which is better, we need to analyse both of the parenting methods.

First, the "western" method.
This method focuses on giving the child choices and responsibility to live his/her own life. The child is given the task of unpressurised learning, and the theory is that even though the child might not be under pressure, the child will still perform well as he/she is performing according to his/her own desires and action. This will also foster a bond with the parent and child, and also theoretically increase the child's self confidence to do better.

Next, the Chinese method.
This method involves straining the child to his/her maximum potential, so that the child will realise their true capability. The child is put under constant pressure to perform to their best ability, and the parents will work with them, continually practising until the child finally perfects the skill or crumbles under pressure. According to the author, if the child goes through this type of parenting, he/she will perform better than those under the "western" method.

I will support the Chinese method. As the author said, to get better at something you must continue practising over and over until you reach perfection. That said, I do not think that pressure is a bad thing either. Pressure allows people to do better, just like competition.

However, I feel that the author should not generalise Chinese parents. Many Chinese parents in the US follow the softer approach, allowing children to have more freedom.