The argument is similar in spirit to the Unabomber's manifesto, though argued in a more abstract realm. Skrbina guesses that his pen pal would not be interested in that work. He's such a practical thinker that things like this he probably considers a waste of time.
Every U.S. Citizen/landed immigrant wishing to travel to China must submit a China visa application. No traveler, including business and pleasure travelers as well as students, will be admitted to the country without a China visa. How far in advance should I apply for a China visa? You cannot apply any further in advance of your trip than three months. It is highly recommended that you apply no later than three months in advance of your intended departure date. The more time you can allow for processing of your application, the better.
You must also have a valid visa to exit China and you must leave China before the expiration of the listed duration of stay. If you overstay in China, you may be detained for various amounts of time, as well as fined. If your visa has expired or will expire before you can depart China, you must apply for a visa extension from the Entry/Exit Bureau before attempting to leave the country. Requests for extensions from the Entry/Exit Bureau can take some time and may not be expedited to meet your travel needs.