French philosophers were often drawn to Mao Zedong and his ideologies, appreciating his revolutionary ideas and approaches. However, this admiration was largely theoretical, as these thinkers did not experience the realities of life in China during Mao's regime. Their detachment allowed them to focus on the philosophical aspects of Mao’s work without confronting the harsher consequences of his policies.

In the book "44 Scotland Street" by Alexander McCall Smith, the distinction between admiration and lived experience becomes apparent. It highlights how intellectuals can romanticize political figures without understanding the complexities and challenges faced by those living under such regimes, illustrating the gap between theory and practice.