This speech was given at the graduation ceremony of students from Stanford University.The purpose of this speech is to share with the audience about Steve Job's experiences in his life, the lessons he learnt from them and his advice to the audience. The audience is the graduates of Stanford University attending the commencement ceremony. The context of the speech is at a commencement ceremony and the tone of the tone of the speech is formal and sincere.
The structure of the speech is rather basic but clear. When giving his personal anecdotes, Steve Jobs uses phrases like "The first story is about connecting the dots.","My second story is about love and loss.", "My third story is about death." to give a preview of the content he is going to cover, hence giving them a clearer outline of his speech.
In his speech, Steve Jobs adopted the "rule of three". He emphasised things through anaphora and repeated it three times. For example, in "learned about serif and san serif typefaces, about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations, about what makes great typography great", the word "about" was repeated thrice and in " all external expectations, all pride, all fear", the word "all" was repeated thrice to emphasise that everything dissipates else dissipates when one knows that he is going to die.
Steve Jobs also uses antithesis in his speech. For example "If I had never dropped out, I would have never dropped in", where "dropped out" and "dropped in" are opposing ideas and in "again, you can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.", "looking foward" and "looking backwards" are juxtaposing phrases
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Should Osama be given a trial?
Osama should not have been given a trial. In 2004, Osama had claimed responsibility for the “September 11” attack on the New York World Trade Centre (WTC) and the Pentagon, where 4 planes were sent crashed into these buildings. Severe damage and many casualties resulted. Both towers of the WTC twin tower collapsed within 2 hours after 2 planes crashed into them, and around half of the Pentagon, a gigantic building that houses the US military, was destroyed. The death toll for this attack was 2753. Even if Osama was given a trial, could he have denied the charge of terrorism and murder?
A trial for Osama could potentially cause more anger among supporters of Osama, as the line along which Osama would argue to defend himself would be from the point of view of the believes of the terrorists. The court that is convicting Osama, which will most likely be the US or UN court, will not listen to his points of view due to the different in their believes. This would result in outrage by the terrorists as this would cause them to feel that the US do not care about their feelings and totally disregard them. More violence might result in revenge.
A trial for Osama could potentially cause more anger among supporters of Osama, as the line along which Osama would argue to defend himself would be from the point of view of the believes of the terrorists. The court that is convicting Osama, which will most likely be the US or UN court, will not listen to his points of view due to the different in their believes. This would result in outrage by the terrorists as this would cause them to feel that the US do not care about their feelings and totally disregard them. More violence might result in revenge.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Rupert Murdoch issue
Rupert Murdoch has been in the spotlight this time not for the right reasons. The famous and influential millionaire who owns the News Corp and has a stake in many big companies has been slammed for his involvement in the phone-hacking scandal of the tabloid that he owns, News of the World. The recent spate of phone-hacking incidents targeted civilians. They either got sensational news from the information received from the hacked phones, or twisted the stories to spruce them up. For example, in the case of Milly Dowler, reports said that she was missing and her case still remains a mystery, while the fact is that she is already dead and some staff from News of the World, including a private investigator, had already been in the know of this. The private investigator, who was the one who found out about the news, deleted the messages that were related to the death of Milly Dowler so as to destroy evidence of what truly had happened. The story that the tabloid had spun up attracted their attention created suspense among readers. This is an example of the many sensational reports by the News of the World which they came up with through hacking phones of civilians.
This incident has sparked the outrage of the British public. Although phone-hacking incidents were not rare throughout British history, it is only in this incident where there is such large-scale upset. This is due to the fact that the scandal this time round targeted civilians, unlike the previous incidents which aimed to get information from royals, politicians and celebrities. This resulted in the public feeling that their privacy is being compromised, and that they could be made used of and be the subject of the news anytime.
Besides public upset, the phone hacking scandal has also revealed ugly side of the British public. During the previous phone hacking incidents, the public was nonchalant just because they did not involve them. To exacerbate the situation, they continued to purchase the tabloid, despite knowing that these information were received through phone hacking and that phone hacking is against the ethics of journalism. This allows these companies to earn more money through receiving sensational news through hacking phones of people and hence encourages the news media to continue such acts. Since they knew that the some companies in the news media use such indecent means to get their news, the public should have stopped buying tabloids from these companies so that their profits will decease and they will find phone hacking not a lucrative business to do. This will put a stop to the hacking of phones to get sensational news. All these actions of the British public show that they are hypocritical, as they do not want their privacy to be compromised but yet either did not care or encouraged the news media to reveal events in the private life of royals, celebrities and politicians.
The incident also showed that politicians were insincere opportunists. When Rupert Murdoch was in power, they tried to get into his good books and did not dare to offend him as he was such a influential figure that he could sway the way the public votes in election. After the collapse of the News of the World, many of these politicians started turning against Rupert Murdoch and some even openly criticized him. This shows that they were “double-faced” people, who curry favour the person in power.
This incident has sparked the outrage of the British public. Although phone-hacking incidents were not rare throughout British history, it is only in this incident where there is such large-scale upset. This is due to the fact that the scandal this time round targeted civilians, unlike the previous incidents which aimed to get information from royals, politicians and celebrities. This resulted in the public feeling that their privacy is being compromised, and that they could be made used of and be the subject of the news anytime.
Besides public upset, the phone hacking scandal has also revealed ugly side of the British public. During the previous phone hacking incidents, the public was nonchalant just because they did not involve them. To exacerbate the situation, they continued to purchase the tabloid, despite knowing that these information were received through phone hacking and that phone hacking is against the ethics of journalism. This allows these companies to earn more money through receiving sensational news through hacking phones of people and hence encourages the news media to continue such acts. Since they knew that the some companies in the news media use such indecent means to get their news, the public should have stopped buying tabloids from these companies so that their profits will decease and they will find phone hacking not a lucrative business to do. This will put a stop to the hacking of phones to get sensational news. All these actions of the British public show that they are hypocritical, as they do not want their privacy to be compromised but yet either did not care or encouraged the news media to reveal events in the private life of royals, celebrities and politicians.
The incident also showed that politicians were insincere opportunists. When Rupert Murdoch was in power, they tried to get into his good books and did not dare to offend him as he was such a influential figure that he could sway the way the public votes in election. After the collapse of the News of the World, many of these politicians started turning against Rupert Murdoch and some even openly criticized him. This shows that they were “double-faced” people, who curry favour the person in power.
Comment on arranged marriages
There are pros and cons for arranged marriages. There are arranged marriages due to several reasons. For example, in the olden days in China, the culture was such that the father is the person who decides who the child should marry and children had to no autonomy to decide who they want to choose as their life partner. A more recent example would be in India, where the caste system only allows people to marry within their “class” and restricts people from choosing who they truly love. Parents in some parts of India are afraid that their children would fall in love with a person from another class if they were to be allowed to freely select their partners. Many troubles would arise if their children falling in love with people from other “classes” as it would put the child in a dilemma whether to marry this person or to stick to the custom and break up. It would also make the parents worry because if the child eventually decides to continue with the relationship, the child would be considered as a “criminal” in the society. Parents, who would naturally not want that to happen, have to find all means to break their relationship, and this could result in devastating effects such as the souring of parent-child relationship due to the child blaming the parents, or the child not being able to get over the separation. Hence decide their spouse for them to avoid the potential problems that could arise from their children freely choosing their spouse. We can also conclude that arranged marriages are done partly due to the parents’ love for the child as they want to save their child from the problems that could potentially be faced in the process of a “free marriage”, and need not necessarily be a bad thing.
However, arranged marriages could result in an unstable relationship. The two parties of the marriage might not love each other as the marriage was not the choice of the bride and the groom but that of the parents. Parents would usually pick the spouse for their children based on social status and family background rather than how much they love each other and how compatible they are. If the two parties happen not to love each other, their relationship will be very shaky and might not last for long.
In summary, arranged marriages is not the best way to decide the life partner of a person. Although there are advantages to arranged marriages, the disadvantages make it difficult to implement in today’s society. Parents should guide their children along the way when their children are finding a life partner, teach them how to make an informed decision, but give the final say to their children .
However, arranged marriages could result in an unstable relationship. The two parties of the marriage might not love each other as the marriage was not the choice of the bride and the groom but that of the parents. Parents would usually pick the spouse for their children based on social status and family background rather than how much they love each other and how compatible they are. If the two parties happen not to love each other, their relationship will be very shaky and might not last for long.
In summary, arranged marriages is not the best way to decide the life partner of a person. Although there are advantages to arranged marriages, the disadvantages make it difficult to implement in today’s society. Parents should guide their children along the way when their children are finding a life partner, teach them how to make an informed decision, but give the final say to their children .
Sunday, August 7, 2011
North Korea
North Korea is a secluded communist country, which did not have much interaction with the outside world ever since its founding. The Korean War, which ended in 1953, saw the split of Korea into two countries - North Korea and South Korea. Ever since, the Communist North has isolated itself and cutting away foreign interactions. The exceptions are when the leaders of the North attend talks and meetings with other countries.
North Korea is a place where propaganda spreads. Having shut its doors from the world till the present day, North Korea is one of the countries who can successfully propagandize its citizens. North Koreans do not have phone lines, need less to say access to the internet. The only media and source of information that they are exposed to is the state media, in which propaganda is rampant. For example, the North Korean media speaks well of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea, and Kim Jung-Il, his son and the current leader of North Korea and condemns countries like South Korea, its arch enemy. As a result of not having an alternative source of information, North Koreans belief what is said by the media and hence get brainwashed. They have a positive impression of the North Korean leaders and belief that they are great leaders, and that North Korea is a great country to live in. To others, the impression of a backward state(whose leader has extra-marital affairs) where people get no freedom is formed when the words “North Korea” are said. This is the reality. North Koreans, on the other hand, do not have the faintest idea of how the outside world is like, and the state of their country as compared to others. They are living under constant deception, under a veil of ignorance. These explain why there have been no protests in North Korea despite the hardship citizens are facing. It is also the reason why North Korea can still remain as a Communist state until today, with no plans for revolution.
The way out of their predicament, to flee the country, need not ensure them a steady future ahead. Many of the defectors cross the border separating North Korea and China, a place where there are loopholes in security and those with the intention of slipping away can do so if the necessary measures are taken. However, in most cases, the defectors face more problems after crossing the border. The Chinese police has worked with North Korea, agreeing to send back the arrested defectors from North Korea. These defectors would then have to face punishments such as years of hard labour back home. Besides the need to constantly be on the lookout for the Chinese authorities to evade arrest, these refugees also face the problem of finding a job. Often, the owners of indecent businesses would take advantage of these people and once they enter the industry, it is difficult for them to get out of it.
In some cases, these defectors do manage to escape to South Korea or America, places that are considered their “sanctuary”, with the help of some volunteer organisations. The journey that they will have to undergo is both physically and mentally demanding. Not only would they have to evade detection as they cross borders to Thailand, where they could be given a permit to travel to these countries, they also have to bear with the cramp and dirty conditions of the detention room in which they will be placed in while they await getting the permit and for their flight.
Even after managing to clear these procedures and travelling to their “sanctuary”, not all is easy-going. Most of these defectors face the problem of cultural shock. The gap between the development of North Korea and these countries is huge and they could possibly encounter difficulties adapting to the pace and style of life in their new homeland. Moreover, the society might not accept them. Citizens from these countries might look upon these defectors as their competitors for jobs. Moreover, since the defectors come from North Korea, a country enemy to many others (including South Korea and US), the people there might have difficulty accepting the North Koreans. This creates the problem of difficulty integrating into the new society for North Korean defectors.
North Korea is a place where propaganda spreads. Having shut its doors from the world till the present day, North Korea is one of the countries who can successfully propagandize its citizens. North Koreans do not have phone lines, need less to say access to the internet. The only media and source of information that they are exposed to is the state media, in which propaganda is rampant. For example, the North Korean media speaks well of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea, and Kim Jung-Il, his son and the current leader of North Korea and condemns countries like South Korea, its arch enemy. As a result of not having an alternative source of information, North Koreans belief what is said by the media and hence get brainwashed. They have a positive impression of the North Korean leaders and belief that they are great leaders, and that North Korea is a great country to live in. To others, the impression of a backward state(whose leader has extra-marital affairs) where people get no freedom is formed when the words “North Korea” are said. This is the reality. North Koreans, on the other hand, do not have the faintest idea of how the outside world is like, and the state of their country as compared to others. They are living under constant deception, under a veil of ignorance. These explain why there have been no protests in North Korea despite the hardship citizens are facing. It is also the reason why North Korea can still remain as a Communist state until today, with no plans for revolution.
The way out of their predicament, to flee the country, need not ensure them a steady future ahead. Many of the defectors cross the border separating North Korea and China, a place where there are loopholes in security and those with the intention of slipping away can do so if the necessary measures are taken. However, in most cases, the defectors face more problems after crossing the border. The Chinese police has worked with North Korea, agreeing to send back the arrested defectors from North Korea. These defectors would then have to face punishments such as years of hard labour back home. Besides the need to constantly be on the lookout for the Chinese authorities to evade arrest, these refugees also face the problem of finding a job. Often, the owners of indecent businesses would take advantage of these people and once they enter the industry, it is difficult for them to get out of it.
In some cases, these defectors do manage to escape to South Korea or America, places that are considered their “sanctuary”, with the help of some volunteer organisations. The journey that they will have to undergo is both physically and mentally demanding. Not only would they have to evade detection as they cross borders to Thailand, where they could be given a permit to travel to these countries, they also have to bear with the cramp and dirty conditions of the detention room in which they will be placed in while they await getting the permit and for their flight.
Even after managing to clear these procedures and travelling to their “sanctuary”, not all is easy-going. Most of these defectors face the problem of cultural shock. The gap between the development of North Korea and these countries is huge and they could possibly encounter difficulties adapting to the pace and style of life in their new homeland. Moreover, the society might not accept them. Citizens from these countries might look upon these defectors as their competitors for jobs. Moreover, since the defectors come from North Korea, a country enemy to many others (including South Korea and US), the people there might have difficulty accepting the North Koreans. This creates the problem of difficulty integrating into the new society for North Korean defectors.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Is Shylock a villain or a victim?
In Merchant of Venice, Shylock is both a victim and a villain. Shylock is a victim he is the subject of discrimination and bully by the citizens of Venice. For example, Antonio often insults him by calling him names like "cut-throat dog" and "misbeliever". Another incident when Shylock is being bullied is when the beggars on the street mock at him when his daughter, Jessica, fled with Lorenzo and even took away with her Shylock's hard-earned ducats and his gems. A large portion of Shylock's business of usury has also been snatched away by Antonio. Antonio, like most of the Venetians, disapprove of the usury, the business of lending money and getting it back with an interest. To show disapproval of Shylock, Antonio lends money to others gratis (without interest), a sign of open competition to Shylock's business. This would make people who want to borrow money to go to Antonio instead of Shylock as it is a more lucrative and money-saving option, and therefore Shylock's business is being stolen by Antonio (note that Shylock did not be an moneylender because he wanted to be one, but because he cannot find other jobs in Venice as he is a Jew and no one wants to employ him).
However, Shylock is not a an innocent victim. He, too, is guilty of offending others and doing heinous acts. For example, the entire plot to get the pound of Antonio's flesh (with the intention of taking away is life as well) was planned by Shylock under the facade of justice. Shylock makes use of Antonio's willingness to help Bassanio and his confidence that he have much more than enough money at hand than the amount he has to pay by the time the bond is due to make him sign the bond which states that Antonio will have to forfeit a pound of flesh if he fails to pays Shylock the stated amount in the bond when the bond expires. To make Antonio unsuspecting of his intentions, Shylock says that "in a merry spot", Antonio would have to forfeit a pound of flesh if he fails to repay Shylock the sum of money on time. When Antonio eventually could not pay Shylock the money as his money was put in his ships and his ships did not return on time, Shylock mocked at Antonio and promised that he would have his bond. Moreover, when Antonio and his friends try to convince Shylock to give Antonio more time and not be so cruel, Shylock insisted that he would have the pound of Antonio's flesh and justified his action by the fact that Antonio has bullied and humiliated him previously, and now he would have the right do it back on Antonio. In this case, Shylock's argument shows that he is a hypocritical person as he expects others to show kindness to him and not to insult him, while he does not have the same expectation for himself. These show that Shylock is exacting revenge by attempting to take away the life of his enemy under the facade of justice.
However, Shylock is not a an innocent victim. He, too, is guilty of offending others and doing heinous acts. For example, the entire plot to get the pound of Antonio's flesh (with the intention of taking away is life as well) was planned by Shylock under the facade of justice. Shylock makes use of Antonio's willingness to help Bassanio and his confidence that he have much more than enough money at hand than the amount he has to pay by the time the bond is due to make him sign the bond which states that Antonio will have to forfeit a pound of flesh if he fails to pays Shylock the stated amount in the bond when the bond expires. To make Antonio unsuspecting of his intentions, Shylock says that "in a merry spot", Antonio would have to forfeit a pound of flesh if he fails to repay Shylock the sum of money on time. When Antonio eventually could not pay Shylock the money as his money was put in his ships and his ships did not return on time, Shylock mocked at Antonio and promised that he would have his bond. Moreover, when Antonio and his friends try to convince Shylock to give Antonio more time and not be so cruel, Shylock insisted that he would have the pound of Antonio's flesh and justified his action by the fact that Antonio has bullied and humiliated him previously, and now he would have the right do it back on Antonio. In this case, Shylock's argument shows that he is a hypocritical person as he expects others to show kindness to him and not to insult him, while he does not have the same expectation for himself. These show that Shylock is exacting revenge by attempting to take away the life of his enemy under the facade of justice.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Should US have dropped the atomic bomb on Japan?
The US should have dropped on the atomic bomb on Japan. Since the start of World War 2, Japan has been invaded many Asian countries, some of which were much bigger than itself. This caused the Allied forces to see Japan as a major threat, for fears that the war would spread to their countries. The US had taken steps to stop the war. They include the extensive bombing of major Japanese cities, which destroyed more than 40 percent of these places on avcerage. Despite the severe loss, Japan stubbornly refused to surrender. Japan's allies, Germany and Italy, had also come under attack by the Allied forces but they surrenderred by the end of April 1945. In an effort to force Japan to surrender, the US gave Japan the Potsdam Ultimatum, which stated that if Japan did not not surrender, it would result in "the inevitable and complete destruction of the Japanese armed forces and just as inevitably the utter devastation of the Japanese homeland". Despite the previous bombings and the ultimatum, Japan still decided to carry on with the war. This proved the conventional bombing that the US had carried out ineffective as it did not bring Japan anywhere near surrenderring despite the great amount of damages done to major cities. Hence, the US decided to drop the atomic bomb, the bomb that could wipe out an entire city.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Logical fallacy in comments regarding current GE
There are certain logical fallacies in speeches of certain contestants of the upcoming GE. For example, The Straits Times wrote that Wong Kan Seng stated "during all his neighbourhood visit, nobody had asked him about Mas Selamat". However, this has no link to the question whether he is responsible for Mas Selamat's escape and why voters should support him even after the Mas Selamat incident.
The opposition candidate for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Chiam See Tong, also had logical fallacy in his speech when he rebutted the claim that he only made one comment throughout the parliament meetings discussing about Mas Selamat's escape from the Whitley Road Detention Centre. Chiam See Tong said that he asked "whether heads would roll over the issue of Mas Selamat. The PAP did not give me a good answer. The reason I didn't ask more question was that we were waiting for the elections, and we believe in accountability". Firstly, Chiam See Tong only stated the the PAP MPs did not give him a good answer. However, he did not state what were their answers. Hence, without even hearing what the PAP MPs said, we cannot assume that their answers were not good. Moreover, his statement that "the reason I didn't ask more questions was that we were waiting for the elections, and we believe in accountability" is also flawed. There is no link in the sentence "the reason I didn't ask more question was that we were waiting for the elections". It would not make a difference whether Wong Kan Seng is accountable for Mas Selemat's escape whether the questions were asked then or when the elections come.
The opposition candidate for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Chiam See Tong, also had logical fallacy in his speech when he rebutted the claim that he only made one comment throughout the parliament meetings discussing about Mas Selamat's escape from the Whitley Road Detention Centre. Chiam See Tong said that he asked "whether heads would roll over the issue of Mas Selamat. The PAP did not give me a good answer. The reason I didn't ask more question was that we were waiting for the elections, and we believe in accountability". Firstly, Chiam See Tong only stated the the PAP MPs did not give him a good answer. However, he did not state what were their answers. Hence, without even hearing what the PAP MPs said, we cannot assume that their answers were not good. Moreover, his statement that "the reason I didn't ask more questions was that we were waiting for the elections, and we believe in accountability" is also flawed. There is no link in the sentence "the reason I didn't ask more question was that we were waiting for the elections". It would not make a difference whether Wong Kan Seng is accountable for Mas Selemat's escape whether the questions were asked then or when the elections come.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Can students be given the autonomy to develop their own curriculum?
Students should not be given the autonomy to develop their own curriculum. If they are allowed to develop their curriculum, education would not be as effective, to the extent that they might not even learn anything.
Students definitely would not know what is needed to succeed in life, or they would not even need education. Hence, they will not be able to come up with proper plans for their curriculum. Moreover, students of lower levels, being immature people, may just end up adding things that they prefer doing rather than things that can aid in self-improvement into the curriculum. Teachers, having gone through enough experiences in life, would understand better what is needed to succeed in life, and can plan the curriculum such that students can learn these skills.
While some may argue that we school should be an enjoyable experience, joy should not be compromised with the goals of education. The purpose of education is to equip students with the necessary skills that can come in useful in life, whether at that point in time or at a later stage of life. Education also aims to instill a good sense of self-awareness, a sound moral compass for pupils. Education also aims to groom responsible and confident people, as well as self-directed learners. If students were to come up with the curriculum, will they be able to come up with an apt one that can satisfy the goals stated?
Hence, I feel that students should not be given the autonomy to develop their own curriculum.
Students definitely would not know what is needed to succeed in life, or they would not even need education. Hence, they will not be able to come up with proper plans for their curriculum. Moreover, students of lower levels, being immature people, may just end up adding things that they prefer doing rather than things that can aid in self-improvement into the curriculum. Teachers, having gone through enough experiences in life, would understand better what is needed to succeed in life, and can plan the curriculum such that students can learn these skills.
While some may argue that we school should be an enjoyable experience, joy should not be compromised with the goals of education. The purpose of education is to equip students with the necessary skills that can come in useful in life, whether at that point in time or at a later stage of life. Education also aims to instill a good sense of self-awareness, a sound moral compass for pupils. Education also aims to groom responsible and confident people, as well as self-directed learners. If students were to come up with the curriculum, will they be able to come up with an apt one that can satisfy the goals stated?
Hence, I feel that students should not be given the autonomy to develop their own curriculum.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Why should we bother about things happening far away from us?
In whichever aspect, a country would definitely be affected by an event happening in another. Nowadays, the world is getting increasingly connected, and we will have to be aware of the things happening far away from us, things occurring in faraway foreign places.
Events occurring in faraway places can affect our economy. For example, in the recent earthquake that shook Japan that started on March 11 2011, the economy of the areas affected by the earthquake came near to a standstill, causing a decrease in the overall Japanese produce. As Japan is the third-largest economy and exports large amounts of goods, many countries are dependent on the goods produced by Japan. A decline in Japanese produce would result in an increase in the prices of the products of Japan. Another example, which has caused mass economic devastation worldwide, would be the 2008 US recession. Although the sub-prime mortgage only occured in the US, the crisis resulted in many economies around the world to plunge into recession. Therefore, no matter how far away the event is from us, it would still affect us economically.
Knowing about and caring about events happening in countries far away from us would allow us to react to them on time. Perhaps, knowing about the things happening far away from us could even save our lives. Take the 2004 Asian tsunami for example. The epicentre of the tsunami was off Aceh, Indonesia. Although the epicentre of the quake was hundreds of kilometres away from countries like India, tha Maldives and Thailand, these countries, which have coasts facing the Indian Ocean, were not spared from the huge waves. If these people were had kept up with the news, had known that a tsunami had hit the west coast of Sumatra, and had some knowledge about tsunami, they could have escaped on time before the tsunami whipped the shores of these countries. From the above example, we can tell that being aware of events happening in other countries would allow us to react on time.
Being aware of things happening in other countries can also help improve political relationship between countries. When a country experiences trouble, other countries who are aware of the situation can offer help. When the troubled countries would be thankful to those who rendered assistance, and this will improve ties between these countries. For example, during the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, Japan was one of the first countries to offer help in rescue services. China appreciated the help to a certain extent and during the recent Japan earthquake, China sent a rescue team to Japan to reciprocate their previous assistance.
Events occurring in faraway places can affect our economy. For example, in the recent earthquake that shook Japan that started on March 11 2011, the economy of the areas affected by the earthquake came near to a standstill, causing a decrease in the overall Japanese produce. As Japan is the third-largest economy and exports large amounts of goods, many countries are dependent on the goods produced by Japan. A decline in Japanese produce would result in an increase in the prices of the products of Japan. Another example, which has caused mass economic devastation worldwide, would be the 2008 US recession. Although the sub-prime mortgage only occured in the US, the crisis resulted in many economies around the world to plunge into recession. Therefore, no matter how far away the event is from us, it would still affect us economically.
Knowing about and caring about events happening in countries far away from us would allow us to react to them on time. Perhaps, knowing about the things happening far away from us could even save our lives. Take the 2004 Asian tsunami for example. The epicentre of the tsunami was off Aceh, Indonesia. Although the epicentre of the quake was hundreds of kilometres away from countries like India, tha Maldives and Thailand, these countries, which have coasts facing the Indian Ocean, were not spared from the huge waves. If these people were had kept up with the news, had known that a tsunami had hit the west coast of Sumatra, and had some knowledge about tsunami, they could have escaped on time before the tsunami whipped the shores of these countries. From the above example, we can tell that being aware of events happening in other countries would allow us to react on time.
Being aware of things happening in other countries can also help improve political relationship between countries. When a country experiences trouble, other countries who are aware of the situation can offer help. When the troubled countries would be thankful to those who rendered assistance, and this will improve ties between these countries. For example, during the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, Japan was one of the first countries to offer help in rescue services. China appreciated the help to a certain extent and during the recent Japan earthquake, China sent a rescue team to Japan to reciprocate their previous assistance.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
War narrative
I raced through the alley, with a bulky equipment in arm. It was the first time going to war, the first time going on a real mission, and also the first time running such a long distance with a 7 kg rifle. Beads of perspiration trickled down my cheeks as I dashed towards the camp despite being enervated from the running such a long distance. Everything around shone in the crimson evening light, signalling that there was not much time left for me to reach the camp. I had parachute from a plane and arrived in a forest nearby. The only task for today is to reach the camp and have sufficient rest in order to carry out tomorrow’s mission.
As I rushed past the long stretch of doors, the chilling wind whipped against my face. The air seemed fresher than before and the entire village seemed to turn placid after a bustling day. Incessant chatter resounded through the air as families tucked into their dinner. There seemed to be a sense of warmth lingering around this village as the people here chatted in joy. Perhaps not. In frigid air, I was panting for breath, perspiring profusely. If not for my country calling all men to join the war, I would have been at home spending time with my family too.
As these thought passed, I neared the camp. The camp was a dilapidated biscuit factory vacated for quite a while. Paint from its façade had started peeling off, exposing a brown layer of bricks at certain parts of the building.
I called a comrade through my mobile phone to inform his that I had reached the camp. Seconds later, the rusty iron door creaked open. John stood at the door. Within a split second, I had entered the building, breathing in stale air filled with the smell of filed wood. The door closed gently.
“Come in quickly next time” John said in a low voice, “Don’t let anyone discover us”.
As I rushed past the long stretch of doors, the chilling wind whipped against my face. The air seemed fresher than before and the entire village seemed to turn placid after a bustling day. Incessant chatter resounded through the air as families tucked into their dinner. There seemed to be a sense of warmth lingering around this village as the people here chatted in joy. Perhaps not. In frigid air, I was panting for breath, perspiring profusely. If not for my country calling all men to join the war, I would have been at home spending time with my family too.
As these thought passed, I neared the camp. The camp was a dilapidated biscuit factory vacated for quite a while. Paint from its façade had started peeling off, exposing a brown layer of bricks at certain parts of the building.
I called a comrade through my mobile phone to inform his that I had reached the camp. Seconds later, the rusty iron door creaked open. John stood at the door. Within a split second, I had entered the building, breathing in stale air filled with the smell of filed wood. The door closed gently.
“Come in quickly next time” John said in a low voice, “Don’t let anyone discover us”.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Letter of encouragement to Japan earthquake survivor
Sam Tan
50 Lincoln Road
Singapore 505050
22 March 2011
Dear Kumiko,
How are you? I understand that the 9.0 magnitude tsunami struck your village in Fukushima, almost everything has been
levelled and the villagers are currently staying in cramp shelters. I also understand that your daughter was swept away by
the tsunami waves and she is yet to be found.
I sympathise with you about this. However, do not be upset. Rescue workers from several countries have been scouring the
quake site these few days. These people are mostly from the Civil Defense of their repective countries and have the
experience in the field of rescuing. With their help, your wife should be found soon. I also understand that your house
and cars have been destroyed by the tsunami waves. After things have settled down, I can lend you some money to purchase a
new house. Alternatively, you can also come over to Singapore. I have two vacant room in my apartment and can let you stay
here while things are settled in Japan.
I urge you to stay optimistic during this period of time. Do take care of yourself by drinking and eating sufficiently.
Being displaced to a shelter might not be that bad after all. You can take this opportunity to interact with the people
there, something that you would not have time to do during normal days. Perhaps, you might even get to know a few new
friends.
Do lead a happy life, have enough rest and remember to look after your children. Be tough in this period of ordeal.
Cheers,
Sam
50 Lincoln Road
Singapore 505050
22 March 2011
Dear Kumiko,
How are you? I understand that the 9.0 magnitude tsunami struck your village in Fukushima, almost everything has been
levelled and the villagers are currently staying in cramp shelters. I also understand that your daughter was swept away by
the tsunami waves and she is yet to be found.
I sympathise with you about this. However, do not be upset. Rescue workers from several countries have been scouring the
quake site these few days. These people are mostly from the Civil Defense of their repective countries and have the
experience in the field of rescuing. With their help, your wife should be found soon. I also understand that your house
and cars have been destroyed by the tsunami waves. After things have settled down, I can lend you some money to purchase a
new house. Alternatively, you can also come over to Singapore. I have two vacant room in my apartment and can let you stay
here while things are settled in Japan.
I urge you to stay optimistic during this period of time. Do take care of yourself by drinking and eating sufficiently.
Being displaced to a shelter might not be that bad after all. You can take this opportunity to interact with the people
there, something that you would not have time to do during normal days. Perhaps, you might even get to know a few new
friends.
Do lead a happy life, have enough rest and remember to look after your children. Be tough in this period of ordeal.
Cheers,
Sam
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Comment on Singapore budget
Recently, the government has announced the Budget for 2011. This budget includes various incentives for Singapore citizens. These incentives include tax rebates, subsidies for the lower income families and "Child Development Credit". The group which benefits the most from the Budget will be those low income households, and the Budget is also aimed at helping these households, who find it hard to catch up with the society financially.
Although the budget claims that it will help the needy and lighten their burden, I only agree with this statement to a certain extent. Much as the poor receives subsidies, this sum of money only helps them in the short-term, and they would still find themselves lagging behind the higher income groups by a huge gap.
For example, the budget included personal income tax rebate and Utilities-Save (U-Save) and Service and Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates. This is to close up the gap between those from the high-income group and those from the low-income group. Despite the fact that Singapore enjoyed high economic growth in last year, the average income of the poor has not increased significantly. Therefore, the poor might be unable to cope with the rise in standard of living if the rich continue to get richer. This is why the government has given high subsidies to the poor.
The government is also issuing child development credit to households who have children to help children pay for their expanses. The amount each household gets per child is either $300 or $400, depending on whether the annual value of home is more or less than $13000.
However, these measures only have short-term effects as the government is only giving these grants for a limited period of time. Although it does help the needy cope with the high costs of living by letting them save on taxes, it does not help them in the long run because the income gap between the poor and the average income is still wide.
The longer term policy would be the one that upgrades the skills of the worker. This will equip workers, especially those from the lower income group, with skills that they can use when they enter the workforce, enabling them to perform better in their jobs.
Although the budget claims that it will help the needy and lighten their burden, I only agree with this statement to a certain extent. Much as the poor receives subsidies, this sum of money only helps them in the short-term, and they would still find themselves lagging behind the higher income groups by a huge gap.
For example, the budget included personal income tax rebate and Utilities-Save (U-Save) and Service and Conservancy Charges (S&CC) rebates. This is to close up the gap between those from the high-income group and those from the low-income group. Despite the fact that Singapore enjoyed high economic growth in last year, the average income of the poor has not increased significantly. Therefore, the poor might be unable to cope with the rise in standard of living if the rich continue to get richer. This is why the government has given high subsidies to the poor.
The government is also issuing child development credit to households who have children to help children pay for their expanses. The amount each household gets per child is either $300 or $400, depending on whether the annual value of home is more or less than $13000.
However, these measures only have short-term effects as the government is only giving these grants for a limited period of time. Although it does help the needy cope with the high costs of living by letting them save on taxes, it does not help them in the long run because the income gap between the poor and the average income is still wide.
The longer term policy would be the one that upgrades the skills of the worker. This will equip workers, especially those from the lower income group, with skills that they can use when they enter the workforce, enabling them to perform better in their jobs.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Use of social networking
The use of social networking sites has become an important way of connecting with people. Now that we have advanced technologies that enables us to connect to the internet like mobile broadband, as long as we have our laptops with us, we can access social networking sites almost everywhere.
Social networking sites enable us to connect with almost everybody(who has an account on that network site), whether it is your friends, colleagues, business associates, or even people you know from overseas. As for one of the popular networking sites(especially among youngsters), Facebook, it allows us to connect to almost anyone, anywhere. You just have to post a message on your “wall” and all your “Friends” that you have added on Facebook can view it. The use of Facebook is especially efficient if you want to chat with an overseas friend, Facebook can come in especially useful.
Even some politicians use social networking sites like Facebook to garner supports of the citizens. For example, the current President of the United States, Obama, used Facebook as a tool to connect with the United States citizens. Along with his charisma, he managed to win the majority votes from the people and won the presidential elections. Some other politicians who use Facebook include George Yeo and Khaw Boon Wan.
However, Facebook can also be used by other people or organisations for the wrong purposes. For example, some protestors in the recent Egypt revolt made used of Facebook to both communicate with fellow protestors and to get people to support their protests. Some Egyptians even got some tips from Tunis protestors that onion could be used as tear bombs against the pro-government rioters. The explains how the Egyptian protestors were successful in overthrowing their ex-president, Murabak.
Facebook can also be a tool for terrorists to connect with each other and plot attacks. However, doing so on Facebook is not a very good platform for the planning of terrorist attacks. Things posted up on the internet, no matter how “secure” they are, can be seen by anyone who manages to “hack” the code to the website. Plans for a terrorist attack have to be kept secret to those within the “operation”. Therefore, if the terrorists really do their plotting on the social networking sites, it would not be very wise as undercovers could foil their plans if they manage to view the plans of the terrorists.
Social networking sites enable us to connect with almost everybody(who has an account on that network site), whether it is your friends, colleagues, business associates, or even people you know from overseas. As for one of the popular networking sites(especially among youngsters), Facebook, it allows us to connect to almost anyone, anywhere. You just have to post a message on your “wall” and all your “Friends” that you have added on Facebook can view it. The use of Facebook is especially efficient if you want to chat with an overseas friend, Facebook can come in especially useful.
Even some politicians use social networking sites like Facebook to garner supports of the citizens. For example, the current President of the United States, Obama, used Facebook as a tool to connect with the United States citizens. Along with his charisma, he managed to win the majority votes from the people and won the presidential elections. Some other politicians who use Facebook include George Yeo and Khaw Boon Wan.
However, Facebook can also be used by other people or organisations for the wrong purposes. For example, some protestors in the recent Egypt revolt made used of Facebook to both communicate with fellow protestors and to get people to support their protests. Some Egyptians even got some tips from Tunis protestors that onion could be used as tear bombs against the pro-government rioters. The explains how the Egyptian protestors were successful in overthrowing their ex-president, Murabak.
Facebook can also be a tool for terrorists to connect with each other and plot attacks. However, doing so on Facebook is not a very good platform for the planning of terrorist attacks. Things posted up on the internet, no matter how “secure” they are, can be seen by anyone who manages to “hack” the code to the website. Plans for a terrorist attack have to be kept secret to those within the “operation”. Therefore, if the terrorists really do their plotting on the social networking sites, it would not be very wise as undercovers could foil their plans if they manage to view the plans of the terrorists.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Future school
Hwa Chong Institution has implemented the "Future school" system to promote collaborative learning. "Future school" is a programme where pupils are required to bring their laptops to school and certain lessons will be conducted online. The school set up this programme so as to broaden the scope of learning for pupils and enable them to use the Internet as a tool to learn. There are pros and cons for this system.
The advantage is that pupils who find "classroom lessons" boring can experience a new way of learning, which might interest them. The future school system also makes it easier for pupils to search for information, as they have the access to the internet. Moreover, this programme help students to be more resourceful and more IT-savvy.
However, there are also major cons to this system. Often, technical difficulties, like not being able to connect to the internet, can be very time-consuming as students will have to try connecting to different proxy servers. If the proxy server is down and the computer totally cannot access the internet, the lesson plans of the teacher will be disrupted as the teacher has to find a way to conduct the "online lesson" without the use of the internet.
Another challenge that is faced is students, having easy access to the internet, playing computer games in school. For example, some pupils stay back after school to play games positioning their computers at angles such that a person standing outside cannot see the screen. This is for the fear that a teacher walks by and notices them, or a technician, doing his ad-hoc inspection of the classes, catches them. Some of the more daring pupils play the games during lesson time, at a point in time when the teacher is unable to see the screen of the person's laptop.
Overall, I feel that the Future School programme is a rather new pedagogy, which is helpful to a certain extent. However, students should use the internet as a tool for learning, and not abuse the autonomy given to them.
The advantage is that pupils who find "classroom lessons" boring can experience a new way of learning, which might interest them. The future school system also makes it easier for pupils to search for information, as they have the access to the internet. Moreover, this programme help students to be more resourceful and more IT-savvy.
However, there are also major cons to this system. Often, technical difficulties, like not being able to connect to the internet, can be very time-consuming as students will have to try connecting to different proxy servers. If the proxy server is down and the computer totally cannot access the internet, the lesson plans of the teacher will be disrupted as the teacher has to find a way to conduct the "online lesson" without the use of the internet.
Another challenge that is faced is students, having easy access to the internet, playing computer games in school. For example, some pupils stay back after school to play games positioning their computers at angles such that a person standing outside cannot see the screen. This is for the fear that a teacher walks by and notices them, or a technician, doing his ad-hoc inspection of the classes, catches them. Some of the more daring pupils play the games during lesson time, at a point in time when the teacher is unable to see the screen of the person's laptop.
Overall, I feel that the Future School programme is a rather new pedagogy, which is helpful to a certain extent. However, students should use the internet as a tool for learning, and not abuse the autonomy given to them.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Nature vs Nurture
I agree with MM Lee’s comments to a certain extent. I feel that the parents’ genes do play a part in determining whether the children are smart. However, there are exceptions. If one of or both the parents are non-graduates, it does not mean that the child will not be smart. Perhaps, the non-graduate parent/parents are smart but were born to poor family. Their family most likely could not afford tertiary education and therefore, the potential of the parents are not entirely unleashed. Therefore, their children are likely to be smart too and may excel if given the proper education. I also agree with the point that children born in poor families are less likely to get into top schools. The parents of these children often have to work very hard in order to earn enough money to keep the family going. As a result, they are not able to spend much time with their children and make sure that their children do their work. Some of the children may end up using the time when their parents do not monitor them to play games or watch television. Moreover, the parents of these children cannot afford tuition for them and hence, the children may be unable to catch up with their peers. However, a minority of children born to poor families do get into top schools. Some of these children were determined to break out of the poverty cycle after experienced it in their childhood and are motivated to work hard in order to get a good job in future.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Recent Reports about Malay community being unable to blend into the society
There have being recent discussions about MM Lee's comment that the Malay community could be left out as a result of their religious beliefs. For example, the Malays cannot eat pork and consume alcohol. Therefore, when going out with colleagues of other races for a meal, the colleagues are only limited to eat at a halal restaurant and if the colleages decide otherwise, thos "staunch" Malays will have no choice but to leave the group.
The Malay communitiy should not be so rigid in what their religion says. For the scenario stated above, they could joined their colleagues at the non-halal restaurant and just do not order pork and alcohol. I do agree with the MM to a certain extent that the Malays being rigid will distant them from the society. Being in a multi-racial society, people should learn to accomodate others. For example, friends of the Malay could agree to going to the non-halal restaurant for that one occasion. However, the Malays should also do their part in "compromising" during certain times when most of the friends insist of going to the non-halal restaurant. The Malay could just join in for a chat if he feels uncomfortable ordering food at that restaurant. In this way, people of different races can come and mix together.
Racial harmony and mutual understanding is vital in Singapore's multi-racial society. Singapore, unlike Malaysia, is a communal country. In Malaysia, the Malays have "special rights" and the other races are hence "left out". In Malaysia, different races also live in different towns, and we seldom see two races living together in the same village. This has causeed a racial split between the Malays and the non-Malays. This also explains why Malaysia is not as successful as Singapore given their land size and population.
The Malay communitiy should not be so rigid in what their religion says. For the scenario stated above, they could joined their colleagues at the non-halal restaurant and just do not order pork and alcohol. I do agree with the MM to a certain extent that the Malays being rigid will distant them from the society. Being in a multi-racial society, people should learn to accomodate others. For example, friends of the Malay could agree to going to the non-halal restaurant for that one occasion. However, the Malays should also do their part in "compromising" during certain times when most of the friends insist of going to the non-halal restaurant. The Malay could just join in for a chat if he feels uncomfortable ordering food at that restaurant. In this way, people of different races can come and mix together.
Racial harmony and mutual understanding is vital in Singapore's multi-racial society. Singapore, unlike Malaysia, is a communal country. In Malaysia, the Malays have "special rights" and the other races are hence "left out". In Malaysia, different races also live in different towns, and we seldom see two races living together in the same village. This has causeed a racial split between the Malays and the non-Malays. This also explains why Malaysia is not as successful as Singapore given their land size and population.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Unrest in the Middle East and Africa
The recent in some Middle Eastern and African nations, which include Egypt, Tunisia and Jordan, started because of a protest in Tunisia which forced it leader to step down. Tunisian's outsted president, Ben Ali, was suspected of pocketing money during his reign. His assets are currently frozen and are undergoing investigation.
Then came the protests in countries like Egypt and Jordan. Egyptian leader shut down internet communication networks to make it harder for rioters to plot attacks on the government. Google and Twitter then came up with a web-free way of "tweeting" in response to the move by the Egyptian government.
Most of these riots are instigated due to government leaders suspected of corruption. In a country, a clean government is essential. When any member of the government is corrupt, the government will lose the trust of the citizens. This may lead to foreign investors pulling out from the country for fear that a riot might break out, work stoppages might occur and these will affect the country's economy adversely.
For example, Singapore has a "clean" government and there have not been any reports on corruption activities taking place among politicians. This plays an important role in attracting MNCs during the early years after independence and even now. The "clean" Singapore government has contibuted to Singapore's success by gaining the trust of foreign companies.
From this incident, it also shows that a support from citizens for the government is vital for a successful country. If the government becomes too authoritarian or even authocratic, they will not garner the support of the citizen. Examples of such countries are North Korea and Myanmar. North Korea has a Communist government, which deprives many people of their rights. Although the citizens there do not dare to go on strike and oppose the government as the North's government imposed a law that states that offenders will be executed. However, one day, the citizens of North Korea, who are currently suffering under the strict Communist rule, may organise a strike against the government. There could be several causes that leads them to do so. They include the fact that the citizens are at the beck and call of the president and the president has the right to do order citizens to do anything, even if it is unreasonable and unjustifiable. Another instigating factor could be that the already-impoverished North Korea has devoted a large sum of money on military purposes. This causes the citizens to earn less money and results in starvation.
Myanmar has a similar ruling system in the sense that the government has the power to pass any law at their whim and fancy. The Junta governemnt of Myanmar is a military government and they have the right to take any action that they want against any citizens. For example, Aung San Suu Kyi, a pro-democracy figure and Nobel Peace Price Laurette, was detained for many years. It all started when Aung San Suu Kyi's party won an election decades ago. However, the then-ruling Junta government refused to step down and give up their position. Till now, the Junta has not given up power. Myanmar has also seen the negative effects. There is a great amount of exodus every year as the citizens are unhappy with the Myanmese government.
Then came the protests in countries like Egypt and Jordan. Egyptian leader shut down internet communication networks to make it harder for rioters to plot attacks on the government. Google and Twitter then came up with a web-free way of "tweeting" in response to the move by the Egyptian government.
Most of these riots are instigated due to government leaders suspected of corruption. In a country, a clean government is essential. When any member of the government is corrupt, the government will lose the trust of the citizens. This may lead to foreign investors pulling out from the country for fear that a riot might break out, work stoppages might occur and these will affect the country's economy adversely.
For example, Singapore has a "clean" government and there have not been any reports on corruption activities taking place among politicians. This plays an important role in attracting MNCs during the early years after independence and even now. The "clean" Singapore government has contibuted to Singapore's success by gaining the trust of foreign companies.
From this incident, it also shows that a support from citizens for the government is vital for a successful country. If the government becomes too authoritarian or even authocratic, they will not garner the support of the citizen. Examples of such countries are North Korea and Myanmar. North Korea has a Communist government, which deprives many people of their rights. Although the citizens there do not dare to go on strike and oppose the government as the North's government imposed a law that states that offenders will be executed. However, one day, the citizens of North Korea, who are currently suffering under the strict Communist rule, may organise a strike against the government. There could be several causes that leads them to do so. They include the fact that the citizens are at the beck and call of the president and the president has the right to do order citizens to do anything, even if it is unreasonable and unjustifiable. Another instigating factor could be that the already-impoverished North Korea has devoted a large sum of money on military purposes. This causes the citizens to earn less money and results in starvation.
Myanmar has a similar ruling system in the sense that the government has the power to pass any law at their whim and fancy. The Junta governemnt of Myanmar is a military government and they have the right to take any action that they want against any citizens. For example, Aung San Suu Kyi, a pro-democracy figure and Nobel Peace Price Laurette, was detained for many years. It all started when Aung San Suu Kyi's party won an election decades ago. However, the then-ruling Junta government refused to step down and give up their position. Till now, the Junta has not given up power. Myanmar has also seen the negative effects. There is a great amount of exodus every year as the citizens are unhappy with the Myanmese government.
Queensland Cyclone
After reports on the recent floods in Queenland, there came a cyclone which caused large scale damage. Cyclone Yasi, which was a category-five cyclone and moved at speeds up to 280 km per hour, ripped buildings and power cables apart. Despite the severe damages caused and the large number of homes destroyed, no life has been lost so far.
This cyclone would cost the Australian economy a lot of money due to the immense amount of damages wreaked. Firstly, the government has to pay for the high cost of repair of utilities and infrastructure like water pipes, electrical cables, street lamps and roads. Private properties like houses and cars would also have been damaged by the strong winds.
Another type of damage that would do great harm to the Australian economy would be the damage of crops. During the floods, the crops would be "drowned" by the water. Moreover, the strong winds might cause the crops to be uprooted. These damages could affect the agricultural sector of the Australian economy and prices of food in countries that import Australian crop would rise.
This cyclone would cost the Australian economy a lot of money due to the immense amount of damages wreaked. Firstly, the government has to pay for the high cost of repair of utilities and infrastructure like water pipes, electrical cables, street lamps and roads. Private properties like houses and cars would also have been damaged by the strong winds.
Another type of damage that would do great harm to the Australian economy would be the damage of crops. During the floods, the crops would be "drowned" by the water. Moreover, the strong winds might cause the crops to be uprooted. These damages could affect the agricultural sector of the Australian economy and prices of food in countries that import Australian crop would rise.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Comment on Lee Wei Ling's article "Who cares for caregivers"
I agree with the point that caregivers for handicapped people have an “extra burden” on the shoulders. The people they are caring for are usually heavily reliant on them, and therefore they have to commit a huge portion of time to look after the handicapped relative. Having a handicapped relative who you need to take care of also means that you need to set aside a huge sum of money for his daily expanses and his medical fees. Both do not come cheap. I do not know why the nursing home rejected the fathers’ request to put his son there in the case stated in the article. However, his reaction of attempting to stab his son and then commit suicide was rather extreme.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Author's Craft (focus on setting)
The wind whipped across the river, sending small ripples across it. I stood on the pavement of the gigantic bridge. Cars were zooming by at great speed on the two-way road in the middle of the humungous red structure. The bridge had two red pillars and long wires connected them together. I stood there in anticipation, waiting to catch a glimpse of the creature.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Newspaper Article: Are Youths Really Happy?
I do not find the article stating that youths are mainly happy accurate. Firstly, the sample size of 1268 is too small. Singapore has a population of approximately 5 million people and 1268 is only a small percentage of the population. Moreover, these 1268 people might not be randomly selected – they might be selected from a group of people who have benefited significantly from the government (for example, youths who have received education bursaries).
Some questions might also be biased. For example, the poster states that 95 per cent of the people interviewed said that they are patriotic to Singapore. However, people would usually be obliged to agree that they are patriotic to Singapore as they would normally answer survey questions in surveys in a politically correct manner.
Another question that is flawed is the number of hours people spend with their parents. The survey reflects that 40 per cent of youths spend at least 10 hours a week with their parents. However, is 10 hours really that much? 10 hours a week average out to 1 hour and 25 min every day. Is this really a lot of time?
This poster might be a source of propaganda for the government. As the elections are coming up, the government might require more support from people as the government feels that youths “are not really educated in politics and do not really understand politics”. Therefore, the government might want to give readers of the newspaper an impression that most youths are happy and satisfied with life in Singapore so that readers of the newspaper (especially the youths) would think that the government has satisfied the needs of most youth. In this way, more youth would vote for the PAP.
Some questions might also be biased. For example, the poster states that 95 per cent of the people interviewed said that they are patriotic to Singapore. However, people would usually be obliged to agree that they are patriotic to Singapore as they would normally answer survey questions in surveys in a politically correct manner.
Another question that is flawed is the number of hours people spend with their parents. The survey reflects that 40 per cent of youths spend at least 10 hours a week with their parents. However, is 10 hours really that much? 10 hours a week average out to 1 hour and 25 min every day. Is this really a lot of time?
This poster might be a source of propaganda for the government. As the elections are coming up, the government might require more support from people as the government feels that youths “are not really educated in politics and do not really understand politics”. Therefore, the government might want to give readers of the newspaper an impression that most youths are happy and satisfied with life in Singapore so that readers of the newspaper (especially the youths) would think that the government has satisfied the needs of most youth. In this way, more youth would vote for the PAP.
comic strip
This story is about a typical Singaporean who is rather greedy in terms of money. He explained a plan to allow himself to earn as much as possible - asking the management of the shopping mall to turn off the air-conditioner so that the shopping mall would be sweltering and all shoppers would patronise his shop - to his two employees. In this case, he calls the proposal of turning off the air-conditioner a "win-win" situation as the management of the shopping mall would save on electricity bills.
We can tell that the story is set in Singapore by the way the boss of the ice-cream shop speaks. He mentions that he wanted to "figure out a way to make his shop earn more money". This shows the "kiasu" attitude and the greed of this shop owner and these traits are also shared by many Singaporeans.
I only revealed that the man was a shop owner at the start of the comic and purposely kept the fact that he was an owner of a ice-cream shop a secret to provide a sense of humour when the reader reads on to the final box. This also leads to one of the limitations in the process of doing this piece of comic - I could not draw anything in the background in the first 3 boxes or I would reveal the setting.
Newspaper article: Youths Are Generally Happy
I do not find the article stating that youths are mainly happy accurate. Firstly, the sample size of 1268 is too small. Singapore has a population of approximately 5 million people and 1268 is only a small percentage of the population. Moreover, these 1268 people might not be randomly selected – they might be selected from a group of people who have benefited significantly from the government (for example, youths who have received education bursaries).
Some questions might also be biased. For example, the poster states that 95 per cent of the people interviewed said that they are patriotic to Singapore. However, people would usually be obliged to agree that they are patriotic to Singapore as they would normally answer survey questions in surveys in a politically correct manner.
Another question that is flawed is the number of hours people spend with their parents. The survey reflects that 40 per cent of youths spend at least 10 hours a week with their parents. However, is 10 hours really that much? 10 hours a week average out to 1 hour and 25 min every day. Is this really a lot of time?
This poster might be a source of propaganda for the government. As the elections are coming up, the government might require more support from people as the government feels that youths “are not really educated in politics and do not really understand politics”. Therefore, the government might want to give readers of the newspaper an impression that most youths are happy and satisfied with life in Singapore so that readers of the newspaper (especially the youths) would think that the government has satisfied the needs of most youth. In this way, more youth would vote for the PAP.
Some questions might also be biased. For example, the poster states that 95 per cent of the people interviewed said that they are patriotic to Singapore. However, people would usually be obliged to agree that they are patriotic to Singapore as they would normally answer survey questions in surveys in a politically correct manner.
Another question that is flawed is the number of hours people spend with their parents. The survey reflects that 40 per cent of youths spend at least 10 hours a week with their parents. However, is 10 hours really that much? 10 hours a week average out to 1 hour and 25 min every day. Is this really a lot of time?
This poster might be a source of propaganda for the government. As the elections are coming up, the government might require more support from people as the government feels that youths “are not really educated in politics and do not really understand politics”. Therefore, the government might want to give readers of the newspaper an impression that most youths are happy and satisfied with life in Singapore so that readers of the newspaper (especially the youths) would think that the government has satisfied the needs of most youth. In this way, more youth would vote for the PAP.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Is it better to have never known something than have to known something and to ultimately lose it later
It may be better to never have gotten something. If someone gets something and ultimately loses it later, he might end up feeling upset and depressed when he no longer to possess that thing. For example, in the story "All Summer in a Day", Margot had remembered seeing the sun in Ohio when she was four. When she went to Venus, she no longer got to see the sun and she ended up being in the state of depression, where she physically turned pale and she refused to talk to anyone. The situation was worsened when her classmates started taunting at her, causing her to be mentally unstable. On the other hand, the other children on Venus did not remember seeing the sun and remembering its warmth and therefore, they were not very affected when it rained continuously and the Sun did not come out.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
“Have you been in the company of a group of which you were clearly not a member? What was the circumstance? How did you act? How were you treated?”
I have witnessed someone being left out during a group discussion during a term 2 sabbatical in secondary 1. The sabbatical required students to solve non-routine math questions. The person was not very strong in math but ironically, he still joined this math sabbatical. He probably did not choose this sabbatical as a first choice. Although the person was “included” into the group discussion, his ideas were not taken seriously as the other members felt that he was of no help.
This practice of leaving others out of group discussions is not very healthy. Although the person who is left out can still listen to the discussion, he would usually not learn from the lesson, as he, being already weak in the subject, would not understand the content of the discussion of the other members.
In this case, the person who was left out is not very sociable during normal times, which leads to the other members of the group excluding him from the discussion.
We normally exclude people who we find are do not like or who we are not comfortable working with from our group or team. Even if a person is talented in the topic of discussion, people might exclude him from their group for a few reasons. Some examples are that the person is has a bad record and that the person is usually anti-social. Regarding the former, we usually exclude someone because we do not trust him. The bad past record has already tarnished his reputation and just because the one thing that he had done, we feel that he would remain in his own self and that he would commit the same mistakes that he did in the past. Therefore, we exclude him from the group.
This practice of leaving others out of group discussions is not very healthy. Although the person who is left out can still listen to the discussion, he would usually not learn from the lesson, as he, being already weak in the subject, would not understand the content of the discussion of the other members.
In this case, the person who was left out is not very sociable during normal times, which leads to the other members of the group excluding him from the discussion.
We normally exclude people who we find are do not like or who we are not comfortable working with from our group or team. Even if a person is talented in the topic of discussion, people might exclude him from their group for a few reasons. Some examples are that the person is has a bad record and that the person is usually anti-social. Regarding the former, we usually exclude someone because we do not trust him. The bad past record has already tarnished his reputation and just because the one thing that he had done, we feel that he would remain in his own self and that he would commit the same mistakes that he did in the past. Therefore, we exclude him from the group.
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