Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 06/12/2009
My Reactions:
With the great improve of medical technology; modern people tend to live longer as well as healthier. The world has entered the aging population society since the past several years. Not only common people but also scientists are eager to reveal the secret of longevity. The article provides us one method to remain lucid when we get old—playing bridge. Benedict describes some evidences which are found by scientists and researchers. In the article Benedict also writes down how the sharp aged live their remaining years in Laguna Woods in Calif., which is the special community created for studies and researches.
As far as I am concerned, the results of the study are very interesting and amazing. There are various factors making the elders’ brain without serious ravages of Alzheimer’s disease. I have heard from news that keeping using and challenging one’s mind can prevent them from dementia. In addition, spending part of time on engrossing in some mental activities, taking healthy diet, doing regular exercise, and contacting with other people can all delay the symptoms of dementia. I am surprised that social connections play an important role in having lucid brain at one’s late age. I think that the elders are similar to children in mental way; the elders always feel lonely when they don’t have any companion. Therefore, the elders may quickly become disoriented or degenerate. Take my grandmother as an example; her symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease had gotten much more visible since she didn’t interact with her friends. On the contrary, my grandfather has lucid mind although he is over 85 years old. He reads news paper and watches TV every day. The reason why his brain works well is that he keeps in touch with the outside world instead of isolating himself from others.
I learn much knowledge from the article. So far, the researches have found that lucid centenarians carry a unique gene. The discovery gives them new hope for future treatments. However, recent therapy still can’t cure Alzheimer’s disease completely. At least we make progress in this field. (344 words)
2009年5月28日 星期四
Weblog Article#5: Drugs in Portugal: Did Decriminalization Work?
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 05/29/2009
My Reactions:
It is hard to believe that there is indeed a country in the world which not only officially abolishes all penalties but also decriminalizes drugs. The article provides readers one different idea that reverses the common opinion among the ordinary people. We often regard dealers or drug addicts as dangerous group to society. As a result, many countries have various penalties and prohibitions of drugs. However, the government of Portugal carries out kinder way than other countries to decrease illegal drug use and new HIV infections caused by sharing of dirty needles. The decriminalization in Portugal gives rise to a huge controversy and debate though it has been a resounding success.
I feel surprise after reading the article. Mala asks questions both on the title and the start of the article; they make readers to think deeply about the problem. In addition, the obvious contrast between the methods for dealing with drug problem of Portugal and the U.S. is ironic. The U.S. has made the best effort to solve serious drug problems such as imposing harsh penalties on its citizens but they are in vain. On the other hand, Portuguese government just enforces lenient policies to neutralize the worst problem in the country.
In my opinion, the authorities should understand their citizens very well, otherwise many problems will appear. The quotation from Mark Kleiman impresses me; I also consider that we should stop being reflexively opposed when someone else does and should think diverse aspects of others. The U.S. and other Western countries should introspect themselves and overhaul their drug-sentencing policy. Although Portugal is not really a suitable model for other countries, at least Portugal has prevented drug problem from exacerbate. In conclusion, other countries should think carefully about Portugal’s case and should improve their own policies. (297 words)
Date: 05/29/2009
My Reactions:
It is hard to believe that there is indeed a country in the world which not only officially abolishes all penalties but also decriminalizes drugs. The article provides readers one different idea that reverses the common opinion among the ordinary people. We often regard dealers or drug addicts as dangerous group to society. As a result, many countries have various penalties and prohibitions of drugs. However, the government of Portugal carries out kinder way than other countries to decrease illegal drug use and new HIV infections caused by sharing of dirty needles. The decriminalization in Portugal gives rise to a huge controversy and debate though it has been a resounding success.
I feel surprise after reading the article. Mala asks questions both on the title and the start of the article; they make readers to think deeply about the problem. In addition, the obvious contrast between the methods for dealing with drug problem of Portugal and the U.S. is ironic. The U.S. has made the best effort to solve serious drug problems such as imposing harsh penalties on its citizens but they are in vain. On the other hand, Portuguese government just enforces lenient policies to neutralize the worst problem in the country.
In my opinion, the authorities should understand their citizens very well, otherwise many problems will appear. The quotation from Mark Kleiman impresses me; I also consider that we should stop being reflexively opposed when someone else does and should think diverse aspects of others. The U.S. and other Western countries should introspect themselves and overhaul their drug-sentencing policy. Although Portugal is not really a suitable model for other countries, at least Portugal has prevented drug problem from exacerbate. In conclusion, other countries should think carefully about Portugal’s case and should improve their own policies. (297 words)
2009年5月7日 星期四
Weblog Article#4: Does Facebook Replace Face Time or Enhance It?
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 05/08/2009
My Reactions:
There is no doubt that in the age of information and communication, the computer plays an extremely important role. Take myself as an example; I use the computer not only for schoolwork but also for interpersonal relationship. I check up my e-mail, use MSN to chat with my friends who live in different places, and reply to my friends’ weblog every day. These things are indispensible actions in my daily life.
According to the article, Lisa describes that her friendship has totally changed since the advent of Facebook. The article tells many aspects of Facebook; in addition, Lisa seems skeptical about whether the influence of those social-networking websites is good or bad. However, she considers that advantages of Facebook are more than its disadvantages owing to her friend’s as well as her own experience. There are still some issues which need to be discussed.
As far as I am concerned, I prefer contacting or communicating people face to face than socializing on the Internet. Although online interaction is convenient for people and unlimited by geography, it lacks true emotion because it is the virtual contact. I keep wonder the same questions which worries Lisa: If for some reason social-networking websites suddenly disappeared, would people revert to phone calls or visits, or would they lose touch? I think people who live in the modern world rely on the Internet too much so that they lose some ability to communicate with others. Though I always take advantage of the Internet and computer, I think I should use them carefully and properly. Therefore, the correct answer to the title of the article may be controversial; it depends on people’s own opinions. (278 words)
Date: 05/08/2009
My Reactions:
There is no doubt that in the age of information and communication, the computer plays an extremely important role. Take myself as an example; I use the computer not only for schoolwork but also for interpersonal relationship. I check up my e-mail, use MSN to chat with my friends who live in different places, and reply to my friends’ weblog every day. These things are indispensible actions in my daily life.
According to the article, Lisa describes that her friendship has totally changed since the advent of Facebook. The article tells many aspects of Facebook; in addition, Lisa seems skeptical about whether the influence of those social-networking websites is good or bad. However, she considers that advantages of Facebook are more than its disadvantages owing to her friend’s as well as her own experience. There are still some issues which need to be discussed.
As far as I am concerned, I prefer contacting or communicating people face to face than socializing on the Internet. Although online interaction is convenient for people and unlimited by geography, it lacks true emotion because it is the virtual contact. I keep wonder the same questions which worries Lisa: If for some reason social-networking websites suddenly disappeared, would people revert to phone calls or visits, or would they lose touch? I think people who live in the modern world rely on the Internet too much so that they lose some ability to communicate with others. Though I always take advantage of the Internet and computer, I think I should use them carefully and properly. Therefore, the correct answer to the title of the article may be controversial; it depends on people’s own opinions. (278 words)
2009年4月8日 星期三
Weblog Article#3: A Quiet Revolution Grows in the Muslim World
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 04/10/2009
My Reactions:
In the article, Robin Wright tries to explain the enormous soft revolution which has launched by the young generation in the Muslim world recently. He also gives many examples to talk about the great contribution towards reform in conservative countries. The influence of revolution on those Muslim countries is beyond everyone’s imagination. Since the technology and values has made progress in the 21st century, the conservative world does not longer fit for modern people. As a result, people living in those ‘old’ countries start to seek out their new path which not only causes awareness of religion, gender and class but also strengthens attention of whole world.
As far as I am concerned, the quiet revolution may be too complicated for me. However, it is indeed a successful example of reform which combines innovative ideas with traditional religion. The Muslim finally realizes that they need to rethink the lifestyle and ideology that has been built for a long period of time. The revolution is considered totally distinct from earlier change in the article probably because the desire which is deeply rooted in young Muslim’s heart. What the Islamic world really need is spiritual conversion instead of material innovation. Of all the young vanguards that are mentioned in the article, Dalia Ziada impresses me most. She is brave enough to champion human-rights and freedom; moreover, she learned to fight back women circumcision when she was a child. Dalia is a model of modern women who oppose sexism as well as traditional stereotypes.
I acquire many lessons from the nonviolence revolution. The ‘quiet’ revolution is actually the loudest, it echoes in the world and every person’s heart. I, one inhabitant of Taiwan, should look up to worldview of various cultural circles rather than pay attention to few major countries. (297 words)
Date: 04/10/2009
My Reactions:
In the article, Robin Wright tries to explain the enormous soft revolution which has launched by the young generation in the Muslim world recently. He also gives many examples to talk about the great contribution towards reform in conservative countries. The influence of revolution on those Muslim countries is beyond everyone’s imagination. Since the technology and values has made progress in the 21st century, the conservative world does not longer fit for modern people. As a result, people living in those ‘old’ countries start to seek out their new path which not only causes awareness of religion, gender and class but also strengthens attention of whole world.
As far as I am concerned, the quiet revolution may be too complicated for me. However, it is indeed a successful example of reform which combines innovative ideas with traditional religion. The Muslim finally realizes that they need to rethink the lifestyle and ideology that has been built for a long period of time. The revolution is considered totally distinct from earlier change in the article probably because the desire which is deeply rooted in young Muslim’s heart. What the Islamic world really need is spiritual conversion instead of material innovation. Of all the young vanguards that are mentioned in the article, Dalia Ziada impresses me most. She is brave enough to champion human-rights and freedom; moreover, she learned to fight back women circumcision when she was a child. Dalia is a model of modern women who oppose sexism as well as traditional stereotypes.
I acquire many lessons from the nonviolence revolution. The ‘quiet’ revolution is actually the loudest, it echoes in the world and every person’s heart. I, one inhabitant of Taiwan, should look up to worldview of various cultural circles rather than pay attention to few major countries. (297 words)
2009年3月26日 星期四
Weblog Article#2: India’s ultracheap car arrives with load of uncertainties
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Reaction Article #2
Date: 03/27/2009
My Reactions:
According to Heater Timmons in the article, it seems that Tata Nano, the cheapest car in the world recently, has caused huge controversy as well as innovation. With the rapid development of technology and science, the quality of automobiles becomes much better. People used to spend a large amount of money purchasing high quality cars. However, the tiny, cheap and fuel-efficient vehicles grow to be much more popular around the world owing to the global economic recession and the awareness of environmental protection. The debut of Tata Nano especially causes the revolution of both automotive industry and people’s life in developing countries such as India. Moreover, the concept of the global market has changed since the Nano appears. Although Heater appears to disapprove of Nano, he still agrees the advantages it brings to the world market.
As far as I am concerned, the invention of Nano not only improves the way we transport but also provides us the new idea to think deeply. I approve of Nano because it is more convenient and greener than automobiles we drive now. Nano provides the chance for people who live in developed or poor countries moving on to cars instead of motorcycles and bicycles. Nevertheless, the influence of Nano on the world remains suspicion and uncertainty. As long as the flawless and safety standard is built, I believe that Nano will be a good solution for the decline of industry. It goes without saying that people will get confused and surprised about new inventions or revolutions in the beginning. The doubt will be eradicated if people give them more time. To sum up, we should keep positive attitude toward Tata Nano. (278 words)
Reaction Article #2
Date: 03/27/2009
My Reactions:
According to Heater Timmons in the article, it seems that Tata Nano, the cheapest car in the world recently, has caused huge controversy as well as innovation. With the rapid development of technology and science, the quality of automobiles becomes much better. People used to spend a large amount of money purchasing high quality cars. However, the tiny, cheap and fuel-efficient vehicles grow to be much more popular around the world owing to the global economic recession and the awareness of environmental protection. The debut of Tata Nano especially causes the revolution of both automotive industry and people’s life in developing countries such as India. Moreover, the concept of the global market has changed since the Nano appears. Although Heater appears to disapprove of Nano, he still agrees the advantages it brings to the world market.
As far as I am concerned, the invention of Nano not only improves the way we transport but also provides us the new idea to think deeply. I approve of Nano because it is more convenient and greener than automobiles we drive now. Nano provides the chance for people who live in developed or poor countries moving on to cars instead of motorcycles and bicycles. Nevertheless, the influence of Nano on the world remains suspicion and uncertainty. As long as the flawless and safety standard is built, I believe that Nano will be a good solution for the decline of industry. It goes without saying that people will get confused and surprised about new inventions or revolutions in the beginning. The doubt will be eradicated if people give them more time. To sum up, we should keep positive attitude toward Tata Nano. (278 words)
2009年3月11日 星期三
Weblog Article#1: A Web Awash in Liquor Ads, Promoting Moderation
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Reaction Article #1
Date: 03/13/2009
Weblog Article#1: A Web Awash in Liquor Ads, Promoting Moderation
My Reactions:
When I finish reading the article, I feel surprised. Even advertisements which can see everywhere in our life has play a special role. It’s hard to believe that two contrast thoughts can be connected. General speaking, the intention of advertisements is to urge consumer to buy alcohol. However, advertising about drinking responsibly make people drinking in moderation.
The campaigns which describes in the article not only use modern technology but also the emotions between human in order to encourage people take care of their own health. The article highlights the importance of responsibility and making correct decisions. People who like to drink need to prepare themselves to lose their health. Therefore, when they see alcohol ads and the warning with them, they may think deeply before they purchase wine. The article also gives many examples that emphasize the influence on the campaigns. I’m impressed by the example that even cell phone users can send themselves text messages intended to reinforce a moderation mode. The whole campaigns are another better way to persuade people into stopping drinking alcohol rather than forced way like penalty.
In my opinion, alcohol abuse is one of serious problems of society. People should make effort to prevent the problem from getting worse. The major marketers who join the campaigns are willing to think more about health instead of their profit. Both people and participants of campaigns can all benefit from the reminder to think before drinking. Although there are few disadvantages about the campaign, alcoholics may not respond to it because it doesn’t have legal sanctions. Therefore, the campaign may not be effective in Taiwan. In conclusion, the most important method to solve the problem of excessive drinking is will power of people. (287 words)
Reaction Article #1
Date: 03/13/2009
Weblog Article#1: A Web Awash in Liquor Ads, Promoting Moderation
My Reactions:
When I finish reading the article, I feel surprised. Even advertisements which can see everywhere in our life has play a special role. It’s hard to believe that two contrast thoughts can be connected. General speaking, the intention of advertisements is to urge consumer to buy alcohol. However, advertising about drinking responsibly make people drinking in moderation.
The campaigns which describes in the article not only use modern technology but also the emotions between human in order to encourage people take care of their own health. The article highlights the importance of responsibility and making correct decisions. People who like to drink need to prepare themselves to lose their health. Therefore, when they see alcohol ads and the warning with them, they may think deeply before they purchase wine. The article also gives many examples that emphasize the influence on the campaigns. I’m impressed by the example that even cell phone users can send themselves text messages intended to reinforce a moderation mode. The whole campaigns are another better way to persuade people into stopping drinking alcohol rather than forced way like penalty.
In my opinion, alcohol abuse is one of serious problems of society. People should make effort to prevent the problem from getting worse. The major marketers who join the campaigns are willing to think more about health instead of their profit. Both people and participants of campaigns can all benefit from the reminder to think before drinking. Although there are few disadvantages about the campaign, alcoholics may not respond to it because it doesn’t have legal sanctions. Therefore, the campaign may not be effective in Taiwan. In conclusion, the most important method to solve the problem of excessive drinking is will power of people. (287 words)
2009年1月8日 星期四
Reaction Article #13: China gets tough on illegal firework factories
Name: Wendy Cheng (49712053)
Date: 01/09/2009
From: Guardian
My Reactions:
According to Tania Branigan in “China gets tough on illegal firework factories,” she describes that China authorities are clamping down on the illegal production and sale of fireworks when the industry enters its busiest period ahead of Chinese New Year. Chinese people are used to letting off fireworks during Chinese New Year because of traditional custom. As a result, the business of fireworks is flourishing. More and more underground workshops appear due to a lot of profit that fireworks can make. However, they have fatal danger; uncertain explosions may take place anytime. Moreover, serious explosions can kill many people who live next to illegal firework plants. Since too many victims have been killed in the explosions in different provinces, the ministry of public security in China had ordered local offices to increase monitoring work and take tough actions against the lawless firework and firecrackers manufactories.
The situation also happens in Taiwan, I often heard scary news that underground firework plants or warehouses hides in common houses which cannot be identified by naked eyes. The problem becomes worse owing to slight penalties. We seem to have a walking bomb that live next to us, it is so frightening! In my opinion, the government needs to make more law or carry out stiffer penalties in order to prevent such terrifying accidents from occurrence. We should also buy fireworks which are made by legal plants instead of factories without permission. In addition, when we discover suspicious plants or storehouses, we should notice the police. No one wants to get injured during Chinese New Year or other festivals after all. (266 words)
Date: 01/09/2009
From: Guardian
My Reactions:
According to Tania Branigan in “China gets tough on illegal firework factories,” she describes that China authorities are clamping down on the illegal production and sale of fireworks when the industry enters its busiest period ahead of Chinese New Year. Chinese people are used to letting off fireworks during Chinese New Year because of traditional custom. As a result, the business of fireworks is flourishing. More and more underground workshops appear due to a lot of profit that fireworks can make. However, they have fatal danger; uncertain explosions may take place anytime. Moreover, serious explosions can kill many people who live next to illegal firework plants. Since too many victims have been killed in the explosions in different provinces, the ministry of public security in China had ordered local offices to increase monitoring work and take tough actions against the lawless firework and firecrackers manufactories.
The situation also happens in Taiwan, I often heard scary news that underground firework plants or warehouses hides in common houses which cannot be identified by naked eyes. The problem becomes worse owing to slight penalties. We seem to have a walking bomb that live next to us, it is so frightening! In my opinion, the government needs to make more law or carry out stiffer penalties in order to prevent such terrifying accidents from occurrence. We should also buy fireworks which are made by legal plants instead of factories without permission. In addition, when we discover suspicious plants or storehouses, we should notice the police. No one wants to get injured during Chinese New Year or other festivals after all. (266 words)
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