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)

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)