Chinese use pills to curb gerbils

In “Chinese use pills to curb gerbils” , BBc News report that the Chinese authorities are using contraceptive pills to cut down the number of gerbils in a north-western province plagued by the rodents. Forestry officials are leaving pills by the gerbils' burrows to try to cut back the rodents' exploding numbers. The gerbils, officials say “are threatening the fragile desert ecosystem in the vast Xinjiang region”. Their burrowing in the Gurbantunggut Desert damages roots of the few plants that thrive there. And Xinhua said “Authorities are using the pellets - which prevent females getting pregnant and cause abortion in those already pregnant - disguised as bran feed, the state news agency”. They are use of the contraceptive pills is deemed to be more humane than killing the rodents and, according to officials, have little effect on other animals. "It's a good way to tackle the desert rat plague," local forestry official Du Yuefei said. More than 180kg (400 lb) of the tainted feed has so far been spread across an area of about 49,000 hectares in the arid region. Officials had previously installed hundreds of perches for the gerbils' natural predators - eagles and owls - but the move failed to halt the rodents' rising numbers. The scheme has already caused a slight drop in gerbil numbers, Mr Du said, with 11 gerbils caught in every 100 traps laid out for them. Previously an average of 12 were caught in the traps, the AP news agency reports. If it continues to be successful, other regions in an increasingly arid China may adopt the scheme. I like and agree with Chinese authorities to cut down and get rid the number of gerbils because it is carrier to human such as Leptospirosis. Transfer by the urine of an infected animal, and is contagious as long as it is still moist.

How do you think about get rid gerbils by using contraceptive pills? And Do you agree with the future should to apply to your country?


References


Chinese use pills to curb gerbils.(2009, March 25),BBC News,Retrieved March 31,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7963836.stm

Video games 'can improve vision'

In "Video games 'can improve vision' ", Playing action video games can enhance an aspect of adult vision previously thought to be fixed, a US study shows. Researchers found playing the games improved the ability to notice even very small changes in shades of grey against a uniform background. It can also be affected by conditions, for example amblyopia, known as "lazy eye". Lead researcher Dr Daphne Bavelier told that it was likely that several aspects of playing video games combined to produce the beneficial effect. Players were bound up the games in an environment where they had to be constantly ready to react to unpredictable events, and where visual information had to be responded to instantly in very precise physical ways. In addition, the mere fact that the games were stimulating and rewarding should not be overlooked.

Have you ever had an experience that playing action video game had helped you?

__________

Reference

Video games 'can improve vision' 　(2009, March 29). BBCNews. Retrieved March 30,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7967381.stm

Steaming hot tea linked to cancer

There was a study about drinking hot tea over 70C. Those who have drinking very hot tea habit is easy to get oesophageal cancer risk.
According to Oliver Child, a spokesman for Cancer Research UK:""Tea drinking is part of many cultures, and these results certainly don't point to tea itself being the problem, but they do provide more evidence that a regular habit of eating and drinking very hot foods and drinks could increase your risk of developing cancer of the oesophagus."
Be careful with your eating habit. It's the essential cause influence on your heath.

__________
References
Steaming hot tea linked to cancer. 27, march, 2009.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7965380.stm

Medics 'can mend a broken heart'

In “Medics 'can mend a broken heart'” BBC News report about the broken heart syndrome can treat by taken aspirin or heart medicines until the first 48 hours. From research 70 patients in US hospital, the most patient had been faced bad news such as about lost of family member or car accident. When patient arrived to hospital with broken heart syndrome, they were taken aspirin or heart drugs and medicine devices. All the patients survived the first 48 hours. The broken heart syndrome is called Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The broken heart syndrome involved with stressful and emotion. June Davison, a spokeswoman for the British Heart Foundation, say: "There does seem to be an association between this condition and a very stressful event". That syndrome looks like heart attack such as chest pain, shortness of breath. However, it can disappear quickly if cure correctly. Somebody comment that “A broken heart just needs time to digest the pain and get back on track with the help of friends, relatives and some shopping”
Nowadays there is not approve the true theory, it is still learning about treatment broken heart syndrome.

When are you shock about bad story or sadness? How do you treat yourself for forget it?

_________

References


Medics 'can mend a broken heart'.( 27 March 2009), BBC News, Retrieved March 30,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7967660.stm

Why to go to aboard? Study at MIT in Thailand!!

Of cause, it's true! Thank you Internet, we can have no limit to communicate and learn. Many people know famous website which provide uploading and sharing VDOs, Youtube.com. In this website has many VDO in many subject as well as university lecher. Now, Youtube.com have classified those VDOs into categories, so that it's easier to choose and watch them. For us, AUA students, it's is a good way to practice listening skill and taking note skill. Moreover, you can review old background knowledge to prepare to study in higher degree.

Let's to learn at www.youtube.com/edu

US boy wins smelly trainer glory

By BBC News reports, a seven year old US boy has success of his first whiff smelt for owning America’s most bad smelt trainer. Joshua Boothe passes off competition in the 34th annual Nation Odor Eaters Rotten Sneaker Contest in Vermont from other six stinky shoe owners. The competition brought seven regional champions of plimsoll pong between ages seven and fifteen to stink it out. They show their filthiest footwear in front of a panel of judges that included a Nasa chemical specialist and a Brown University professor of smell. It was sponsored by Odor Eaters a manufacture of deodorant products for shoes and feet.


What do you think about competition of stinky shoe? It could be happen in your county?


Reference:
US boy wins smelly trainer glory( 25 March 2009) Also in the News, BBC News. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7962659.stm

Death link to too much red meat

In “Death link to too much red meat”, BBC news report that people who ate high proportion of red or processed meat had higher risk of death than people who ate the least7
Meat contained large amount of saturated fat that caused breast and colorectal cancer. Also, higher meat intake was risk factors of heart disease, including higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Conversely, eating white meat could slightly reduce risk of fatal cancer or heart disease. However, Dr Mark Wahlqvist, a nutrition expert from Australia's Monash University, said “eating small amounts of red meat - around 30g a day - provided a good source of key nutrients”.

How do you feel in this article? Would you like to change your habit of eating meat?

References

Death link to too much red meat.(2009, March 25),BBC News,Retrieved March 27,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7959128.stm

How China sees the world

In the “how China sees the world” (the Economist, March 19th, 2009), the economy of China has developed remarkably and globalized for the last 30 years. For many years, global economy decrease, the economy of Europe, America, and Japan has been weak, while China has grown astonishingly. Now, Chinese think that they have the power as same as America. They ignore many countries; they cancelled EU summit and put the France on the black list because of a political reason. There will be G20 meeting in London next month but many people worry that it could be G2 summit, America and China. Many Chinese believe that they have enough power to effect on other countries. However, the World Bank forecast that “China’s growth this years to 6.5% “(¶3, p.2). It is still better than other countries, but many Chinese feel that the growth of 6.5% is a sort of recession. And China has a lot of possible problems; environmental pollution, unemployment, resistance of people who are taken their lands to the government for development. So, nobody knows where China will go. The writer pointed out that “the world is not bipolar and may never become so”. (¶2, p.3) China should know about the responsibility of the power.

When I read this article, I thought of political system of China. Yes, China is a Communist country. Even though, Chinese government permitted the private possession, they still control the people repressively. Chinese people have no right to express their opinion freely. There was a conflict between Chinese army and Tibet monks last year. That was horrible, and many countries blame Chinese government. However, Chinese government ignored it. Rather they put the country on the black list because their leader met Delai Lama. China, of course, has a strong economic power in the global economy, so they can keep their repression on domestic and on abroad. Nobody can stop them, however, they must think about the right of human. The resistance of their people could be stronger.
__________
References
How China sees the world, The Economist, March 19th 2009, revised March 26th 2009 from http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13326106

More thoughts on Richard Corey

This poem is one of those given as an example for analysis in chapter 5 of Quest 3 Reading and Writing. After our discussion in class this morning, I continued to think about it and decided that this wouldn't be a bad place to write down some of my thoughts. Please feel welcome to disagree, with support. I've added my thoughts as comments. 

       Richard Corey by Edward Arlington Robinson

Whenever Richard Cory went down town,  
  We people on the pavement looked at him:  
He was a gentleman from sole to crown,  
  Clean favored, and imperially slim.  

And he was always quietly arrayed,
  And he was always human when he talked;  
But still he fluttered pulses when he said,  
  "Good-morning," and he glittered when he walked.  

And he was rich—yes, richer than a king,  
  And admirably schooled in every grace:
In fine, we thought that he was everything  
  To make us wish that we were in his place.  

So on we worked, and waited for the light,  
  And went without the meat, and cursed the bread;  
And Richard Cory, one calm summer night,
  Went home and put a bullet through his head.

__________

References

Robinson, E.A. (1999). Richard Corey. Bartleby.com.  Taken from L. Untermeyer, (ed.), Modern American Poetry. 1919, New York: Harcourt, Brace and Howe. Retrieved March 26, 2009 from http://www.bartleby.com/104/45.html 

In "School lunch rules 'too strict' ", BBC news report that the nutritional guidelines will use in England's secondary schools. The guidelines involve 14 nutrient-based standards such as no less than 7.5g protein and 5.2mg iron. The guidelines on vitamins and minerals are so restrictive. If uses this rule, the pupils will receive balanced menu and healthier. Neil Porter, LACA chairman, says "If the government is serious about the importance of school food in altering young people's eating habits and its contribution to reducing levels of obesity then it should act now," but now, this rule can not be use.

I think this rule is O.K. but it have to good taste.

What do you think about A.U.A canteen? What would you like to improve?

________

References

School lunch rules 'too strict'.(2009, March 25),BBC News,Retrieved March 25,2009 from

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/education/7961013.stm

The next Great Wall: "Buy local" campaigns raise protectionist barriers in Asia.

Hello everyone. I know you are very busy at studying and posting comments in this fourth week. But remember your english skills are improving tremendously. Your hard work will be rewarded! And I have a new post for you to practice your english (again). Here you go!

Since the trade barriers have invisibly increased in Europe and America, the costs of exports from Asian countries have become less competitive than products nationally produced. Undoubtedly, the governments from Asian countries have responsed by raising retaliatory barriers in various forms. Vietnam and India increased import tariffs while Indonesia and China called for their local governments and offered attractive incentives for locals to buy local products. The Economist noted that such barriers would damage the economies of Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia because those countries largely rely their incomes from their exports.


I think these barriers are likely to geared up when there is an economic crisis. I think most countries face the conflicts between how to protect their local industries and how to increase the income from selling products to foreign markets. Although, the international trade agreements such as ASEAN, AFTA have been long established to promote internatinal trade, the agreements have been slowly proceeded. Each country has its own products to sell and those products have to compete with similar products sold by other countries including the countries in the same agreements. When the economic choas occur, the conflicts seems to be increased. I don't know how these conflicts will be end or they will never end because we are in the competitive world.


I came across this issue few weeks ago and then I recalled it again when I decided the topic of my research paper. Please comment I need your ideas for my research paper.



References

The next Great Wall. (2009, March 12th). The Economist. Retrieved March 25, 2009 from http://www.economist.com/business/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13278289&CFID=48273238&CFTOKEN=80346700

AIG and the president : Easy does it

According to The Economist, in the financial crisis, “AIG have taken $220m in bonuses since the insurance giant was bailed out with $170 billion of taxpayers’ money”(2009, ¶1). With this event, “Barack Obama ordered his treasury secretary to find a legal way to claw back the bonuses”(2009, ¶2). Although, Obama has many options to do with AIG, it’s not good. For example, “He could try to use executive power to break the contracts; but that would tie him in legal knots and might undermine confidence in the rule of law”(2009, ¶6). Moreover, he could get back the money by cut down the next tranche of bail out money, but it seems the government will give money more that AIG really need and the bonuses still remain with the employees. Therefore, his best course is “to explain, calmly and patiently, why bailing out banks and honouring contracts are necessary evils”(2009, ¶9).

AIG has a financial problem until it was bailed out with public money, why did AIG give bonus to employees? I hear that the company has to pay bonuses follow their contract but I think in the financial crisis, the company can explain to employees about this situation that company should reduce costs to run on the business. What do you think about this issue?

__________

References

Easy does it. (2009, March 19). The Economist. Retrieved March 23, 2009 from http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13326168

Pink elephant is caught on camera

In northern Botswana, a wildlife cameraman took pictures of a herd of elephants. He surprised in these pictures because he found a pink baby elephant. "Experts believe it is probably in albino, which is an extremely rare phenomenon in African elephants" Ecologist Dr Mike Chase said " this is the first documented sighting of an albino elephant in northern Botswana." and he said It's difficult to survive in the harsh African bush because the glaring sun may detroy its skin and eyes. If it wants to survive,it'll hide under the large trees in the afternoon.
In my opinion,This found surprise for me and I think it may mistake from genetic of elephant or the world's environment have changed.

Do you surprise in the pink baby elephant? In your opinion,how did it happen?


__________


References
Morelle,R .(2009 March 20). Pink elephant is caught on camera .BBC NEWS. Retreived March 24,2009 From http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/7951331.stm

Anything

I’ve been gotten the assignment to look for any topic that it’s interesting. As it can be anything, I don’t know what the topic that I should look for! It’s hard time for me anyway. To solve this problem then I choose this topic which from my latest forward mail. This about, In Singapore, you will be surprised when you order “anything” to drink because it’s a brand of soft drink. You won’t know that what will inside the can even seller didn’t know too. It can be many kinds of soft drink such as Coke, Sprite, and etc. At present, not only brand which name “Anything” but also brand which name “Whatever” too. Brand “Whatever” different from brand “Anything” in containing random kinds of syrup instead of soft drink. Well, I hope both will be available in Thailand too!

World's cheapest car is launched

In "World's cheapest car is launched ", BBC News reports that Tata, the Indian car company, launches the world's cheapest car, the Tata Nano, in India. The car has no airbags, air conditioning, radio, or power steering on the standard model but we can put more luxurious options later. It costs $1,979. Car industry analysts quote it will take five or six years for Tata to start to raise the bottom line from the product. Almost all global carmakers alike, Tata has seen drop in sales as the worsening of the global economic slump has been going on.

Do you want to purchase it? Is the price important and attractive when you buy it, even if there is not enough sorts of devices?

__________

Reference

World's cheapest car is launched　(2009, March 23). BBCNews. Retrieved March 23,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7957671.stm

Iran women to get equal insurance

There is a news in BBC about the insurance company in Iran. They are going to have change, they will pay the compensate for women same with what they've paid for men.

According to the Iranian Justice Minister Gholamhoseyn Elham " the companies would also have to make equal payouts to Muslims and non-Muslims".

It means there was diffrence beween women and men, muslims and non-muslims. I'm shock about that. All of us we are humans how come was there a diffirence like that?

__________

References

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7953282.stm

China Denies Protectionism in Blocked Coca-Cola Deal

China on March 19, 2009 denied that trade protectionism was behind its veto of a US$ 2.4-billion takeover bid of juice-maker Huiyuan by Coca-Cola. China’s decision on March 18, 2009 to reject Coca-Cola’s bid for Huiyuan shocked the business community, and shares in the Hong Kong-listed firm dived yesterday, at one point losing half their value. Analysts said China had used a new anti-monopoly law that took effect in August to reject the bid out of economic nationalism. But the decision on Wednesday, China’s commerce ministry said that if it had approved the acquisition, “consumers would have been forced to accept higher prices and a smaller choice of products”. If it had gone ahead, the deal would have been the largest-ever foreign acquisition of a Chinese company.

Reference

The Nation Friday, March 20, 2009

Great idea for business, environment, and societies

Playpower, which is an organization set up by researchers from the US, Brazil and India, is developing educational games used with simple 8-bit computers for developing countries. On the background, those simple machines are sold with cheap price; around $10 each because wealthier nations stopped using it years ago, so that Playpower can create games without highly cost.
In my opinion, Playpowers’ idea is remarkable not only for business, but also for environment and society. For the business, generally, when an IT company starts to create software or games, they need a huge cost for introducing newest machines, on the other hands this company can create it without those cost by using old machines. Also for the environment, using simple 8-bit computers for new products is a kind of recycle. At last for society, their products might be useful and helpful for developing countries children.
Can you find any demerit of their activities?
__________
References
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20127006.200-programs-wanted-for-oldstyle-chips.html

China's panda ambassadors

Taiwan is the latest potential recipient, after China offered to send two giant pandas to the island to mark a ground-breaking visit to Beijing by Taiwan's opposition leader Lien Chan.
World leaders usually give gifts to their foreign counterparts to mark an official visit. Many monarchs and heads of state give birds, dogs or even racehorses to visiting dignitaries. But for the Chinese, the giant panda is the ultimate gift. "The panda is China's key cultural icon," said Phil Dean at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. "It's a symbol of friendship and peace. It's cute and cuddly, and sends all the right messages of goodwill," he said. It's a way for Beijing to say it cares about the people of Taiwan, and at the same time remind them that they are also Chinese. However,I disagree with using panda as a gift because they are animal not a commodity.It will be better to let them live in their local place.They will be more peace.

Do you agree with this or do you think it just a politic?

Reference
McGeown ,K. (2005,May 3) .China's panda ambassadors.BBC NEWS. Retrieved March 22,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4508873.stm

NewScientist: Fears over 'designer' babies leave children suffering

Michael Le Page address on his article in NewScientist that many children died because of numerous genetic disorders, even through modern medical can detect and cure them by the “IVF with pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (IVF-PGD)” technology. Nevertheless, many parents do not take a treatment, because they still believe that their children's genes are inherited as taboo; people should not change them.

As you know I'm Buddhist ,so I believe that every thing are depended on kama. In this case, children who are born with diseases or disable are affected previous-life's kama. I, however, agree that if medical technology can cure genetic disorders, it had better to do, although it have to change some genes.

My summary is very short since the source is. What do you think? To modify human gene is agreeable?
__________
References
Michael Le Page.Fears over 'designer' babies leave children suffering. (2009, March 19). NewScientist. Retrieved March 22, 2009 from http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20127006.600-fears-over-designer-babies-leave-children-suffering.html

Lax controls making drugs cheap; yougest addict only 10

The Public Health Ministry exposed that the age of teenager addicted to methamphetamine fell to 10 years olds due to failure of controls made drugs more available as a cheap price. Dr Boonreun Triruenworarat said “ya ba, a mixture of methamphetamine and caffeine in tablet form known in Thai as crazy medicine, was the most popular among youths, followed by natural narcotics such as marijuana.” More women and youths are getting addicted because drugs have sold in internet. The average of addicts’ age has changed from 18-24 years old to 13-18 year olds, and the youngest drug addict is 10 year olds. Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban has called meeting with police, army, and other agencies. In order to, find solution to prevent and suppress narcotics.
It is really sad news that drugs become reach to youths and women. This issue has been solving for long time but it is still be a problem nowadays. In my opinion, may be the government should legalize and impose high-tax on drugs. Money that government could get from narcotics might be use on education and health care.
What do you think about drugs situation nowadays? How could this problem be solve?
__________
References
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/03/18/national/national_30098175.php

Teenagers not getting good sleep

In"Teenagers not getting good sleep" BBC News report that is studying about how to important sleep in teenages. Doctor Neil Stanley said"Your body really wants a good night's sleep every night" The hormone controls sleeping calles Melatonin. The sleep enough is important because the body is repairing body, dealing emontion and learning new things. But there is a question which the scientists can not answer that how many hours do we need to sleep? Scientists said " It's now know that the 8 hours a night rule doesn't work for every". Karen, 15 years old, want to sleep about 5 hours in each day, He doesn't miss out on MSN and TV programmes. If he got 8-9 hours sleeping, he will become tired and grouchy. Tayles, who took part in the test, want to begin study at 11 am., he give reason"It might help with school work". But different view's Britnary, who also took part in the test, she would like start early and finishing at 3 pm. The hours sleep varies from between 4 to 10 hours a night.

How many hours of sleep suitable with you? For the paragraph you get sleep at least 4 hours in each day. Do you change sleeping hour for do useful such as practice language? Why? Why not?

__________

References

Teenagers not getting good sleep.(2009,March 22).BBCNews.Retrieved March 22,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/newsbeat/hi/health/newsid_7954000/7954319.stm

Taking vitamins to protect against disease is a waste of money

Rory Collins, Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at Oxford said that taking vitamin cannot protect people from disease such as cancer, heart problems and strokes and no evidence of any protective effect against heart disease. Other studies suggested that vitamins have a protective effect against some diseases and a supplement to a balanced diet or to boost nutrients. However, Eating fresh fruit and vegetables is more beneficial

In my opinion, vitamins cannot prevent serious illness but they have a lot of nutrients which are beneficial. If you do not like to eat fresh fruit and vegetable or do not get enough nutrients per day, vitamins are one option to help you to be healthy.

What do you think about taking vitamins?

References
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/2096672.stm

Pride and Prejudice: to see or not to see?

My last comment on Soojin's post "Sex and sensibility from Economist", reminded me that I also have the BBC's excellent video production of Pride and Prejudice. I like it because it follows the novel very closely, and almost all of the brilliant conversation, which Jane Austen uses to very effectively to tell her story, is included almost word for word from the novel. The producers also went to a lot of trouble to accurately depict the clothes, houses and other details from the period. 

Because it does follow the novel so closely, the full video is also quite long, at about four hours, so I'm not sure that I would want us to watch it all, but would you like to watch some of the BBC's video production? Perhaps we could watch a little once a week? 

Please leave a comment to let me know what you think. 

______________ 

On a somewhat different but related topic, "Sex and Sensibility", the title of the Economist article that Soojin blogged this morning, is a witty joke based on the name of another famous novel by Jane Austen. What is it? (Although the Economist's writers don't write strictly academic English, they do write very well educated English for a critical audience whom they assume to be well read.) 

Sex and sensibility from Economist

Hello, everyone! Today's Saturday which I have to post one news from Economist. I'm so sorry that I have to post in happy weekend, but I deeply appreciate your comments! The news I bring is about "The Vatican's harmful views about condoms". Pope Benedict 16 visited Africa and gave many good messages about social issues such as poverty, financial turmoil, food shortage, except one thing about condomes. He said that condome is not effective and useful to "'overcome' the epidemic, indeed their use actually makes the problem worse and the disease could be beaten through chastity, abstinence and 'correct behaviour'". However, scientists proved with their research that using condomes is effective to protect HIV and AIDS. The news also mentioned about Thailand, that "Experience in Thailand, which snuffed out a rapid early increase of HIV, suggests that condom use, expecailly by prostitutes and their clients, is effective". Also according to the World Health Oranisation, if people use condoms, it cut the probability of infecting HIV by 90%.
Though I understand the pope's intention that people have to keep their chastity with their Catholic perspective, I think the pope got a very big mistakes to the world. Many organizations are encouraging using condoms to protecte from many disease, considering people's health. I also heard that, still Catholic doesn't allow abortion in any cases. I think it is ridiculous and they don't consider about women's life. The problem is related to Euthyphro we disccused about in the class. Like Euthyhro, I think, the pope try to follow holy things which is loved by God(Catholic believe one God, so I explain "God" different from the book, "gods"). What is holy? Is the holy that we have to keep sex purity? Do I have to infect HIV or AIDS if we don't keep sex purity, because it is God's punishment?(Actually, I heard that some priests and pope argue like that. I think sex purity is also important but I doubt that the reason is just "loved-by-gods") And how about Buddihsm in Thailand?
You can add any coments, whoever wants, whenever and whatever you want!
__________
References

Sex and sensibility. (2009, March 19). The Economist. Retrieved March 21, 2009 from http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13326176 

The best place to celebrate Songkran Festival.

Songkran Festival or Water Festival is one of largest festival in Thailand. In the past, Songkran Festival is the day we pay respect to senior or older people along Thai culture. Today it is changed a little to be a funny festival. Many people have a vacation for 5-7 days in each year. You will see Bangkok where is not the same city as you know, no traffic jam and very very quiet. Because most of people leave town and going to celebrate in other provinces. But some parts of Bangkok are busy and soaking such as Khoa Sarn Road, Silom Road and Din Dang area. The most favorite activity is throwing water, people who join this activity go onto the street with bucket of water or a water gun, then water war will begin. But, if you plan to leave Bangkok, the recommended place is Chaing Mai province. Songkran Festival in Chaing Mai is the most popular and you will get more fun more than anywhere. The central of old town in Chaing Mai where is the famous attractive area, turns to be a water fighting avenue and largest swimming pool. All of people (Thai and foreigners) going to the same place to join and get wet with happiness. They celebrate like there is no tomorrow. To join Chaing Mai Songkran activity, you should reserve hotel before going there, because at that time all Chaing Mai hotels always full. Anyway, if you don’t want to join Songkran Festival in a big city like Chaing Mai, you can go to other places in Thailand such as Pattaya, Prapradang or Kao-neaw street in Khonkan province. How about you? Do you have a plan to join Songkran festival? And where?

Ref. www.pcql.com/2009/03/03/songkran-festival-chiang-mai-2009/

Young teenage women in Epytain are using blogs and radio onlines stations to beat censors and to take about equality

24% of women work but 30% of young women, ususally middle and upper class, discuss topics, exchange information and discuss different views on the internet. Because they are not known they can express opionions, taboo topics such as sexual hamssment and news, with out fear of the sensors

what you think about this story its good or bad

Sources:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7950729.stm

Afghan women who turn to immolation

In “Afghan women who turn to immolation”, BBC News reports about Afghan’s woman that has higher rate of self-immolation in Herat province. Due to a combination of poverty, illiteracy, domestic violence and lack of freedoms, they run away these problems by self-immolation. Most of the women are around 20 years old or just married. In Shanas’s case, she set herself on fire because she was unhappy about her engagement during that period. In another case, Anargol who is 20 years old cannot stand under pressure from their husbands or the mothers-in-law so she tries to commit self-immolation many times. These are the example and also be the main reason why most women have died from their injuries.

If you were these woman, you will commit self-immolation or not?Why?why not?

Reference
Afghan women who turn to immolation.(2009,March19).BBCNews.Retrieved March 20,2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7942819.stm

Bartered Brides

Bartered Brides

Hmong girls, in Sapa, in the north of Vietnam, are kidnapped by gangsters and sold in China as brides. Sapa is an attractive place, which is located not far from the border with China, enough to gather many tourists including gangsters. The Hmong girls don’t know about outside world, so they are cheated easily and sent to China to be sold as brides. An 18-year-old girl managed to escape from the gangsters and contacted to Chinese police. She could come back to her family, but many women were kidnapped and couldn’t come back home. The relationship between Vietnam and China was not so good, because of borderline war. However, it is time to need a co-operation to each other and this problem will be the start.

When I read this article, I was shocked that there are still cruel women trades in the world. Actually, a lot of women are working in the sexual industry, particularly, in the big cities. Mostly, they are poor, under educated, even under aged. Some of them are cheated or kidnapped by dark power, gangster. They can’t escape from the chain. Many years ago, there were very similar crimes in Korea. Many young women were kidnapped and sold as a prostitute. Women are weak physically, so they could be targets of crime easily. I hope there’s no more tragedy like this in the world.

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References
Bartered Brides (March 12th, 2009)). The Economist. Retrieved on March 19th from http://www.economist.com/world/asia/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13278577 .

Children work round web control

In "Children work round web control" by BCC news, Symantee firm found that UK parents believe their children spent time online for 18.8 hours per month and 81 % of UK parents knew what are they looking about. Most parent worry about unsuitable network because they can't stay with children all the time , About 54 % of UK parents put software control into computer for check and filter which net suitable for children to serch

Do you agree with them to put software control for protect children form unsuitable network?

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References
Children work round web control.Mrch 18,2009: http://new:bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7948187.stm

The teacher-in-chief speaks

Barack Obama, the President of United States, has promised to enhance the whole US educational standards in order to be an example to other countries. He pointed out the educational standards have been varied from states to other states since the federal government used the student's test scores as a measurement of each school's performance in order to allocate the budget to schools. The higher scores the students got, the larger amount of budget that the school will get from the federal. Unfortunately, they lack of central controls of educational standard. Undoubtedly, some school show high test scores of students in favor of the incoming money. Barack has proposed various solutions. One of those is that applying the merit payment for good teacher; that is good teachers will get more money when their students's achievement improved. On the other hand, bad teachers will be penalized by stop teaching.

After I have finished reading this news, I then compared with Thailand's education system. Since the Ministry of Education Thailand administered the national examination for high school students as the measurement of the university admission. The scores from the national test will be combined with Grade Average Point from the high schools in order to be evaluated for university admission. Some students from relatively lower education standard schools tend to have higher GPA than those from highly competitive counterparts. I understand that every school desires to help their students to have a better chance to get into university. If this unfair GPA continues, I assume that most of students in Thailand will be increased to nearly 4.0.

Another interesting point is that the merit based payment for high school teachers. I am not sure about the average teacher's salary in USA. But in Thailand, the high school teachers receive only little money. And the evaluation conducted in the schools is not effective to distinguish between well-qualified and low-qualified teachers. Then the teachers are likely to have less incentive to enhance the student's achievement. This merit based payment would be a good idea for Thai education system. However, I haven't done much research abouth the details of merit pay and I don't know much about how it works. And I didn't mean that my observations about the teachers' performance and salary will apply to all teachers.

So I would like to share my ideas with you.

What is your high school education system? Is it similar to Thailand or USA? And do you think the merit pay for teachers would be a good alternative for improving the educational standard?

I will be very happy to hear from you.
References
The teacher-in-chief speaks. (2009, March 12nd). The Economist. Retrieved on March 18th, 2009 from http://www.economist.com/world/unitedstates/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13279059

Mother wants sex for Down's son

In “Mother wants sex for Down's son” BBC News reports on interview of mother (Lucy) with her Down's son (Otto) to BBC Radio 5 live's Victoria Derbyshire show. Lucy thinks Otto should have all the experiences that other young men of his age have - including sex. She says, “I wanted him to do exactly the same as everybody else so I was very keen he went to a mainstream school,” and says, "But I believe that he has every right to have the same opportunities as everybody else." Otto would like to have girlfriend. He used to have one female friend ,"Hannah" but she wanted to be just friend. Then he tried dating agencies but it did not work for him too. His mother want to provide girlfriend who 21 years old for him.

Do you agree with Lucy doing? If you are Lucy, how do you help your son?

References

Mother wants sex for Down's son. (2009, March 17). BBC News. Retrieved March 18, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7948511.stm

Music lessons provide a workout for the brain: from New Scientist

Gottfried Schlaug of Harvard Medical School says in “Music lessons provide a workout for the brain” about his research that is, “Showing differential brain development in children who learned and played a musical instrument versus those that did not”(2009, ¶3). His team did an experiment on six-year-olds from the Boston. Then they found out that, “the musicians also outperformed the others at specific tasks related to manual dexterity and discrimination of sounds”(2009, ¶5).

What do you think about Music? Is it works for adult or only children? In my opinion, musical training is useful for both adult and children. It will help you to improve your ability to concentrate your work or study. Moreover, it can help you to have more imagination. From this article, the music affects your brain to develop by practice. What do you think if we play difference instrument, our brain will develop in difference part or not. In addition, the difference kind of music which has a difference rhythm will affect the difference part of brain or not.
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References
Coghlan, A. (2009, March 13). Music lessons provide a workout for the brain . New Scientist. Retrieved March 16, 2009 from http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn16767-music-lessons-provide-a-workout-for-the-brain.html

Selling sex legally in New Zealand

Selling sex legally in New Zealand
Today, I reading the news in terms of attitudes towards prostitution, New Zealand and Europe are almost as diametrically opposed as they are in geography. Kiwis have opted for wholesale liberalization of the sex trade, When I read article of “Sophie” she said “I needed money fast so I didn't lose my house," she wears low-cut dress at work. She does not feel like one either. "I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't do drugs. I'm a vegetarian," she says, adding that she had qualms about her new job. But the central-city parlour she joined - basically a pub with a sitting area at the front and bedrooms at the back - was not the drug-fuelled dive she had imagined. "All the women here are lovely," she says. "We spend a lot of time sitting and talking. I'll stick it out a bit longer." I think, some question the morality of Sophie's choice, but legally it cannot be faulted. Sex workers have the same rights as everyone else. In the eyes of New Zealand's law, the oldest profession is just like any other and policy stands in marked contrast to Europe. In 1999 Sweden criminalised the buy of sex services, and several countries are introducing similar laws. New Zealand sex workers what they think of Swedish-style strictures, and the response is overwhelmingly negative. "Lucy", 23, from Wellington she said, “I make twice what I was earning in retail. I am appreciated by customers and my boss. I can work whenever I want to - it's by far the most gratifying work I've ever had”. Brothels may be legal but most New Zealanders prefer not to live next to one. What do you think about selling sex legally in New Zealand? How do you think if selling sex legally pass the law in your country ?

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References

Selling sex legally in New Zealand. (2009, March 17). BBC News. Retrieved March 17, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7927461.stm

Banning to sell alcohol is not the best way to reduce accident in Songkran Festival.

Follow the issue of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, whether to ban the sale of alcohol during the upcoming Songkran Festival, in order to reduce the annual carnage caused by road accidents. This issue is becoming controversial. It is true that drinking was the main cause of a sharp rise in road accidents during Songkran day. Most of the road accidents occur because drunks get behind the wheel of a car or a motorbike. They are not aware of the dangers of drinking and driving. However, a prohibition to sell alcohol is not best way to prevent accidents in a long term. A better way should be to give knowledge and motivate them to have more awareness. The government should better monitor the drivers who are drunk and punish them to make them learn. I think this is a better way to reduce accidents in long term.

Reference:
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/03/17/opinion/opinion_30098042.php

Vegetarians 'get fewer cancers'

BBC NEWS reported "A vegetarian diet may help to protect against cancer."UK study Research analyse from 52,700 men and women who did not eat meat had fewer cancers than those who did.But, researchers found a higher rate of colorectal cancer among vegetarians. Although,this research gave a benefits for people.Many researchers had confusion in this case because "it doesn't support the idea that vegetarians would have lower rates of colorectal cancer and it means we need to think more carefully about how meat fits into it."
*What do you think about vegetarians may help to reduce cancers? and Would you tell a way to protect yourself from cancers?
*I think Peter will have more informations about vegetarians and we should ask him.
Thank you :)
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Reference
Vegetarians 'get fewer cancers' .BBC News. Retrieved on March 16, 2009
from http//news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7942479.stm

Alcohol Sales Banned on Songkran Holidays

On 13 Feb 2009, Bangkok Post reported that Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai said that alcohol sales are to be banned on Songkran Holidays from the 13th to the 15th of April this year. Also, the Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control Director Samarn Futrakul said that the office has unofficially decided that alcohol sales, only to Thai consumers, would be banned during Songkran.
I understand that most of the crimes during Songkran are caused by drunk people; however, in my opinion, it’s not an effective way for preventing crime. Even if they ban selling alcohol to Thais, foreigners can buy alcohol. It means there are still chances for people who want to celebrate Songkran with drinking. Moreover, Thais’ eagerness for enjoyment is stronger than foreigners’ because Songkran is Thai culture. If I were Thai, I would store much amount of alcohol to drink and excite Songkran with friends.
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References
Bangkok Post 13 Feb,2009

Alcohol may be banned for Songkran

Due to the many road accidents during Songkran days in the past caused from drinking alcohol, the Public Health Minister, Witthaya Kaewparadai, wants to ban alcohol sale during Songkran this year. In my view, banning alcohol isn’t the way to solve the problems. Firstly, banning alcohol during Songkran days doesn’t solve the root cause. If we want to reduce the road accident we should strictly follow traffic rules said that do not drive while drunken. Secondly, banning alcohol worsen the tourism industry, for example, many tourists pay a lot for drinking alcohol during Songkran days. Finally, banning alcohol during Songkran days will exploit beverage manufacturers that they have right to sell their products in everyday. In conclusion, we should think carefully for banning something that it can affects to anyone.

Reference : Bangkok Post (13/02/2009)

Alcohol might be banned during Songkran

PM Abhisit Vejjajiva, has been asked by the health ministry to consider three options regarding a ban on the sale of alcohol during April’s Songkran festival for 3-5 days. Businesses are questioning how practical the move could it be, and some have said it not can not reduce the number of traffic deaths. During this holiday period last year, 557 people died and were injured because of careless driving due to alcohol consumption. In my view, it’s possible to control the numbers of people who drink alcohol by increasing tax. If we increase taxes around 500 times, then people might not buy alcohol because the price is too high. Also, they can set up control zones in major cities such as Bangkok and Chang Mai to limit alcohol sales
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References
http://www.thailandqa.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20285http://news.carrentals.co.uk/thailand-plans-alcohol-ban-during-upcoming-songkran-festival-3425410.html

Alcohol ban in Songkran Festival year 2009

The government’s national alcohol control committee will shortly consider whether to ban the sale of alcohol during the upcoming Songkran Festival in order to reduce the annual carnage caused by road accidents during the traditional Thai New Year holiday. The ban has been proposed in response to the alarming accident figures during the Songkran Festival. For example, from April 11 to 17 last year, a people were killed and injured during the week-long festival. Big cities and towns were the accident champions. Bangkok saw the highest number of accident. Instead, the festival always ends with reports of deaths, especially on the road. Many people lose their lives or are severely injured in accidents that could easily have been avoided. Most of the road accidents occur because drunken revelers get behind the wheel of a car or a motorbike. The authorities have previously tried to reduce the number of accidents caused by drunk driving by attempting to impose a ban on the sale of alcohol at certain places and during certain periods of time. The survey showed that around 57% of shops violated the rules by selling alcohol during the current nation wide ban. The number of violations had increased from the previous year. These figure show that preventative measures will not be effective if people are not fully aware the dangers of drunk driving-both to themselves and to others.

In my opinion, the way to solve this problem is to educate people from an early age about the effects of alcohol and how to be responsible drinkers. If children are able to purchase or obtain alcohol easily, they will be encouraged to start drinking prematurely. Otherwise, regardless of how strict the law is, drinking will always fine ways to get around the rules. So this campaign is effectiveness in Thailand.

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References

http://www.nationmultimedia.com

Reduce accidents in Songkran Festival

According from Thailand last New Year holiday report about accidents, 3,810 injured in 3,549 road accidents. Police estimated 28% of the accidents were caused by drunk drivers. So during Songkran Festival in this year (13-15 Apr 09), The Public Health Ministry wanted to reduce the number of accidents, they issued 2 ideas which are ban alcohol sale. First, they will ban all alcohol during the songkran period. Second, they ban sale at stores but allow restaurants, pubs and hotels with an Department permit to serve booze from 6 p.m. to midnight. What do you think about this? I disagree with 2 of issued because they ban only that period, some people can plan or prepare themselves before. The government should control the impact of drinking rather than ban all or some alcohol places. They should more support Drink Don’t Drive Project and make a new campaign to stop giving alcohol for the gift in every festival instead.

Aclohol ban on Songkran holidays

According to the Nation Breaking News on March 17, 2009 reported the Public Health Ministry measures to ban or limit sales of alcohol during the Songkran holidays to control the number of road accidents. What do I think about this? I think this measure is useless. To support my opinion, I have been thinking about what drinker could do if they know the news. Drinkers cannot buy alcohol on Songkran holidays, but they can buy it before and stock it until Songkran day become. Also An road accident isn’t cause from drinking only in other word there are several causes such as carelessness and fall asleep while driving. I think the best solution to solve the problem is stop selling an alcohol. So, what do you think about this news?

Alcohol may be banned for Songkran Festival

Public Health Minister of Thailand said alcohol sale would be prohibited during Songkran since the rate of accident is high during the long holiday last year. The principle cause is drunk driving, so the authorities need to reduce the accidents by limiting sale of alcohol during Songkran Festival 2009.

In my view, this policy cannot stop drinking alcohol because people still like to drink alcohol and they can always buy it somewhere. The main point of this problem is not only the drinking alcohol but also driving without awareness. I think the government should find the new way to remind their population about drinking and driving with responsibility.

References
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/03/17/opinion/opinion_30098042.php

Songkran Celebrations

The Songkran holidays is only a month away. For many people across the country, this is their longest holiday of the year, so they will go back to their hometowns to visit family. Those who wish to travel are rushing to book tours, hotel accommodation, and air tickets before they run out. However, the Songkran period is also associated with the increase in the number of road accidents, sexual harassment, and crime. The current government is proposing a ban on alcohol sales during this period as a way to reduce road carnage. Do you think this will solve the problem? What other solutions can you offer?

Swensen's ice cream in Thailand

People in Thailand like to eat ice cream because it makes them fresh and forget hot weather. Swensen's is a popular ice cream shop for Thais. Apart from ice cream, Swensen's sells ice cream-cake and beverage. It's decorates with white and red colour. It has many branches both inside and outside Bangkok. The main reason why they prefer to eat ice cream of Swensen's than other brands is delicious and cheap. And there are many kind of flavour and many list of menu for customers to choose. This also is the reasons that I love to eat ice cream at Swensen's.

Punctuality is important in Japan

Punctuality is important in Japan. If you don't come on time, you are considered an unreliable person. In business situation, If you are late on the appointment, you are supposed to call and explain the reason. You should arrive five minutes ahead of time. Being late makes us feel worse and your impression is also bad. If it is a first meeting, it is difficult to correct the feeling. If you are late for school, you have to feel sorry to join the class. A lot of people think interrupting others is extreamly rude. The appearance of mobile telephone has dramatically changed among friends. Even if you come late, you can contacrt with your friends with mobile. We don't think you are rude any more because you imform us to be late. We don't care what we make friend wait.

Ipod Mp3 in Cambodia

Ipod is the must popular Mp3 which is come from China. It can be suitable for all class of age but countless teenagers because I am a teenager who grew up in Phonm Penh, Camboidia. So I knew the teenager wants and needs in new faction and lasted style in technology. You can enjoin with it, if you stressful in homework or have an exam because you can add your favorite song or your picture into Mp3 that you can listen anytime if you want. Mp3 is useful to relax and exercise with your brain.

"Wai" is important greeting in Thailand.

In Thailand ,One custom that is important in your culture, is greeting in which people totally use “Wai” that is depend on relationship between them. Generally, it is done by placing the palms of the hands together, with fingers at chest level, and bowing. The fingertips go above the level of the eyebrows to show respect for Buddha. “wai” is always returned, unless there is a significant difference in social or age between the two people, in which case the senior does not return “ wai”. For example, an adult does not exchange " wai" with child. “Wai” can mean “Hello” but also “Thank you,” “Good bye,” and “I’m sorry”.

Nasa shuttle launched after delay

In “Nasa shuttle launched after delay”, BBC News reports that Nasa's space shuttle Discovery has gone to space from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida on 2 weeks mission to the International Space Station. The shuttle's launch delayed departure in February because there were machine faults. Its mission is supposed to characterize four spacewalks to help set up the truss part to the starboard, or right, side of the station and the deployment of its solar arrays. Discovery's astronauts will also change a broken unit for a system that converts urine to drinking water. Another important mission is ISS crew shift. Discovery will drop off the Japanese space agency's (Jaxa) first resident crew member. One of the astronauts is Kouichi Wakata will be Japan's first long-term resident on the space station.
I found an interesting article about Mr.Wakata. Besides his major missions, he intends to conduct funny experimentations, such as “how do you get the medicine in the eye in space?” It is chosen from among the public. If you have a chance, what do you want to ask him to do?
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References
Nasa shuttle launched after delay. (2009, March 16). BBC News. Retrieved on March 16, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7945345.stm

Korea series is popular in thailand

When I was child, I like chinease movie more than thai movie or american movie. But I don't know about Korea country. I just know that is in Asia. First time I know Korea series is "Autrum in my heart". My friends told me it's so ramantic and sad. I don't like sad story and don't watch it. From this series, the thai people 'd like to visit in Korea. I think it 's only new trend, it 's disappear in the future. At the weekend I have freetime , I like to watch TV program. The morning movie presents Korea series. After that I feel the Korea series is so fun and interesting story. I try to manage my free time for watch them. At now the movie , song and actor is popular in thailand which come from movie. I think why the thai actor is popular in another country similar thai teenage crazy Korea singer? I guess the Korea goverment support them. Do you think when thai actor is well - know in the world?

response writing

One of important customs in my country is garthering of family on Chinese new year. At these day, we will visit our relatives. The first day, we come to our grandmother's house and have fund together. The second day, we visit our relatives. The last day we visit our teachers and our friends. That's great time and more especially for the children because they will be recieved the lucky money from the older, so they're very excited. When I was young I always expected Chinese new year, because I didn't have to go to school, my parent bought for my new dresses and the most excited was lucky money. Whenever I think of that I'm very excited, but this year I wasn't there with my family so I was very sorry for that.
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Green tea in Thailand

Green tea is a product which from Japan. It was very popular many years ago until nowadays. Oishi is a first brand who produce from Thai and best seller. Now, it has many brand and many kind of tea such as original green tea, green tea with honey-lemon and develop to white tea. That sound like Thai people like it and can accept it easily. It might be from many researchs which have approved that it is useful and anti-oxidant. That caused it popular in Thai.
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BBC News

Yesterday I read the BBC news, it was about agony if missing children in Delhi, India. There were 6000 children have been reported missing in the last two years, and only about 1 in 10 have been found. Almost the missing children are from Delhi’s poorer communities. According to a family whose daughter was disappeared, they did many ways to find their daughter even paid money to the police but couldn’t find.
If you want to know more clearly, please search this link: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7926263.stm. I was wondering why the missing children couldn’t be found, where are they? How come the government doesn’t have any solution for this serious problem?
How do you think about this problem?
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References
Morris, C. (2009, March 13). Delhi notebook - agony of missing children. BBC News. Retrieved March 16, 2009 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7926263.stm 

Children come with high carbon cost: New Scientest

The article "Chilren come with high carbon cost", points out the connection between the discharge of carbon dioxide and population which includes the rate of the birth. In the article, Paul Murtaugh, a statistician at Oregon state university in Corvalls, says "if you have a child, you and you partner are each responsible for half its emissions. If that child has kids, one-quarter of their emissions are down to you, and so on." Also, the writher says "With rising future emissions, each extra child in the US would eventually result in eight times the lifetime carbon footprint of the average US resident today. Even with constant per-capita emissions, it's nearly six times - or nearly 10,000 tonnes of CO2." What do you have in your mind to read those things?

When I read this, I was depressed because I felt that it's trying to encourage us to have birth control. I disagree with this article because it just caluculated the rate for the duscharge of carbon dioxide and population. Do you think we need to choose to have the control of population which includes the rate of the birth to save the earth?



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References
2009, March 15 Children come with high carbon cost New Scientist
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20126994.200-children-come-with-a-high-carbon-cost.html

Nana summary BBC News

In "Australia oil coast 'half clear", BBC News reports the popular beaches along the coast of Queensland in north-east Australia must closed beacuse was affected by oil spill from ship damaged by a tropical storm. The estimated 230 tones of oil which leak from ship, the govement must lose million of dollor for clearn up the beaches. Apart the oil damaged, it could cause harmful animals which live in the sea and around there. It will become problem enviroment in the future. I presents this news for tell the problem of enviroment is increase in the world. Everyone know the problems, but I 've hear news about that such as this news. What do you think about status of the problem environment in present. Do you change yourself for help enviromenal. For me I try to use recycle plastic bag. and you?

AEP Lecture Preparation 1.

In her summary and comments in "Evil and the law from Economist" on a recent article about the war crimes trial currently underway across the border in Phnom Penh, Soojin also relates it to a very thought provoking comment about the events in Germany under Hitler during the Second World War: 

In German, at that time, there were thousands of camp everywhere, and everyone know about the camp and truth. I don't know much about the Cambodian case of the article, but I think, like German, if we inquire into the hidden circumstances that led up to the case, I think it is not only tortur's sin (Soojin, 2009, ¶ 2).

Some possible questions to respond to in a comment below: 

• What do you think about this? 
• Who was responsible for the crimes? 
• Who were all the people working at all those camps in Germany and Cambodia to murder millions of their fellow citizens? 
• Could the same thing happen in your country? 
• Has the same thing ever happened in your country? 
  

I was thrilled when I read Soojin's post, because it fits in perfectly with the AEP lecture everyone will be attending on Tuesday, March 17. The lecture is being given by Stuart, the AEP supervisor, who has prepared some pre-lecture questions to get us thinking about his topic. In his hand out, Stuart first describes a couple of situations, and asks some questions about them:

1.  At a hospital in America in 1966 researchers carried out an experiment on a group of nurses. The scientists placed bottles of drugs on hospital wards which clearly stated that the total amount of drug that could be given to patients in any one day was 100mg – above that amount could be fatal to the patient. The researchers then telephoned 22 nurses while they were on duty, telling them they were doctors, and asked them to administer 200mg of the drug to patients, and that they would sign the drugs chart when they came in to the hospital. 

Question 1: If you were a nurse what would you have done?

Question 2: Out of 22 nurses, how many do you think gave the full dose of the drug?

2.  Imagine you are the manager of a McDonald’s restaurant. You are responsible for security in the restaurant. You are working late one evening when you receive a ‘phone call from a man who says his name is Bob Monroe and that he is a police officer. He says that one of your staff is suspected of stealing and that you should search the person immediately. He says that you can get the staff member to strip naked in the search and that it is OK for you to conduct a full body search. He says he will stay on the line throughout the search.

Question:  What would you do? Would you go ahead and search your employee? Explain your answer to the class [in a commented posted below]. (McMullen, 2009)

Share your response to one or two, or all, of Stuart's questions in a comment. 

If you like, you can post more than one comment. And you can come back later and post another comment to respond to a classmate's ideas. 

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References

McMullen, S. (2009, March). AEP Lecture – Social Psychology Experiments. (Class handout and available from author.)

Soojin. (2009, March 14). Evil and the law from Economist. On AEP at AUA - Peter's Classes. Retrieved on March 15, 2009 from http://peteraep.blogspot.com/2009/03/evil-and-law-from-economist.html