In Zambia the social inequality gap is getting bigger and bigger by the day. A lot of people who are well fed, and nourished and on the flip-side there is alot of people who don't have enough, and are malnourished. Due to circumstances such as this many people believe that the poor will try to rebel against the rich someday in the near future, and this will add hostility and seperation among the citizens. Also a democratic country can't be formed with such inequalites, among the citizens, or when the minority not the majority of the country are making the decisions.
Another huge issue would be how the poor don't get alot of input in this country. Therefore the rich or people who are well off are running the country. The ironically thing about this is that they are running the country, "by themselves for themselves". This country definetly doesn't run for the people as a whole, but rather for the people that have. There is even an African proverb that contrdicts what is going on in Zambia. It goes "i am because we are and we are because i am". What ever happen to this way of living? Greed.
Not only is there social seperation among politics with residents in Zambia. But also schools, churches, health care, and where they buy their goods at. It's gotten so bad that when the poor people get sick, doctors will send them aboard to get health care somewhere else.
According to the article in order to prevent such inequalities Zambia needs a leader who is willing to change all of the things that has been going on. I agree it seems like whoever the leader is, isn't really trying to change anything. They may just want to please the rich people because they are rich themselves, and defending the poor wouldn't really look good. Especially when the rich is the one who voted the leader in the first place.
Source: AllAfrica Global Media (2006) Dangerous Social Inequalities. Retrived August 32, 2006 from http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document?_m\u003dabc643df66a5e606d697467dda237179&_docnum\u003d1&wchp\u003ddGLbVtz-zSkVA&_md5\u003da66f096b4db6d02f74e46eae950821b8 .",0]
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Source: AllAfrica Global Media (2006) Dangerous Social Inequalities. Retrived August 32, 2006 from http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document?_m=abc643df66a5e606d697467dda237179&_docnum=1&wchp=dGLbVtz-zSkVA&_md5=a66f096b4db6d02f74e46eae950821b8 .
Thursday, August 31, 2006
United Nations Development Fund
Lauren Walker-gender and family article
http://www.gorkhapatra.org.np/content.php?nid=1724
Global Campaign for rights of migrant women begins
The United Nations Development Fund has decided on a global campaign to talk about rights of migrant women workers, better conditions, and their basic rights. One hundred and sixteen countries have ratified this and all countries will report to a meeting for the specific perils women go through worldwide. Many woman have become the economic providers and move on their own. A major result of this is that women are migrating in much greater rates than the men and make up 50% of total international migrant population. And in some countries even constituted of around 70% or more migrant workers. The goal is to help this women live and earn with diginity just like any other human on earth. Nepal does not have a systematic gender desegregation data but according to a 2001 census there were 82,712 that had migrated abroad for jobs. Women activits are hoping that this meeting will help women migrant workers have fair rights.
There is so much discrimination all over the world but it is 2006, you would think that things would be working out for the better but obviously not abroad. I think this is a great idea and I am glad that the UN can do something about this. I cannot wait to see what the outcome will be. I will keep an eye out and let you know.
http://www.gorkhapatra.org.np/content.php?nid=1724
Global Campaign for rights of migrant women begins
The United Nations Development Fund has decided on a global campaign to talk about rights of migrant women workers, better conditions, and their basic rights. One hundred and sixteen countries have ratified this and all countries will report to a meeting for the specific perils women go through worldwide. Many woman have become the economic providers and move on their own. A major result of this is that women are migrating in much greater rates than the men and make up 50% of total international migrant population. And in some countries even constituted of around 70% or more migrant workers. The goal is to help this women live and earn with diginity just like any other human on earth. Nepal does not have a systematic gender desegregation data but according to a 2001 census there were 82,712 that had migrated abroad for jobs. Women activits are hoping that this meeting will help women migrant workers have fair rights.
There is so much discrimination all over the world but it is 2006, you would think that things would be working out for the better but obviously not abroad. I think this is a great idea and I am glad that the UN can do something about this. I cannot wait to see what the outcome will be. I will keep an eye out and let you know.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Avian Flu!
Current Event Log 2
Katie Houser
Avian Influenza in Indonesia and Around the World
On Wednesday, August 23rd the World Health Organization reported that the Indonesian Ministry of Health confirmed the countries sixtieth case of the avian influenza virus other wise known as H5N1 or bird flu. The six year old female was the country’s 60th confirmed case of infection in a human. She became sick around August 6 and was hospitalized on August 11th. The girl was from Bekasi, West Java Province. No cause of the infection has been located, but there is an ongoing investigation. The girl is still recovering in the hospital. Forty six of the sixty cases of avian influenza have been fatal.
The H5N1 or avian influenza virus is a very pathogenic one, which is the reason that there is global concern about it. Despite this, the media is not telling all the facts. Avian influenza is not transmittable through interpersonal contact yet, in other words people with avian influenza can not infect other people with virus. One can only get avian influenza from an infected bird. If the H5N1 virus infects a person who is carrying a human form of influenza and is able to swap DNA and mutate into a human strain. Then we would be facing a serious global pandemic. So far that has not happen yet. The Global medical community recognizes the danger of a human form of this virus and is working to develop a vaccine. Until they do, we should all remember that avian influenza is survivable. After all, the little Indonesian girl is recovering.
Source: http://www.who.int/csr/don/2006_08_23/en/print.html 8/24/2006.
Katie Houser
Avian Influenza in Indonesia and Around the World
On Wednesday, August 23rd the World Health Organization reported that the Indonesian Ministry of Health confirmed the countries sixtieth case of the avian influenza virus other wise known as H5N1 or bird flu. The six year old female was the country’s 60th confirmed case of infection in a human. She became sick around August 6 and was hospitalized on August 11th. The girl was from Bekasi, West Java Province. No cause of the infection has been located, but there is an ongoing investigation. The girl is still recovering in the hospital. Forty six of the sixty cases of avian influenza have been fatal.
The H5N1 or avian influenza virus is a very pathogenic one, which is the reason that there is global concern about it. Despite this, the media is not telling all the facts. Avian influenza is not transmittable through interpersonal contact yet, in other words people with avian influenza can not infect other people with virus. One can only get avian influenza from an infected bird. If the H5N1 virus infects a person who is carrying a human form of influenza and is able to swap DNA and mutate into a human strain. Then we would be facing a serious global pandemic. So far that has not happen yet. The Global medical community recognizes the danger of a human form of this virus and is working to develop a vaccine. Until they do, we should all remember that avian influenza is survivable. After all, the little Indonesian girl is recovering.
Source: http://www.who.int/csr/don/2006_08_23/en/print.html 8/24/2006.
Sudan’s Moves in Darfur Concern U.S. Envoy
Toni Rockette
Sudan’s Moves in Darfur Concern U.S. Envoy
It’s been two years since the Bush administration first said the word genocide in reference to Darfur and the U.S. is finally renewing the push to get peacekeepers over there. A peace agreement was signed in May but that meant nothing to those over there. All sides of the war are accused of killing civilians. There has been a plan to quell the violence: to send more than 10,000 Sudanese troops. Sudan’s acting ambassador, Oman Monis, says that the Sudan government is opposing the idea of sending troops in and he does not know why so many people would try to send in troops if they would be unwelcome. Sudan says that they have not been consulted enough on the UN’s plans but others say they have already been consulted. Many aid workers have been killed in the last month and there are escalating reports of rape and the recruitment of children to fight in the war.
I feel that this situation has gotten out of control. Not many people know about Darfur. I first heard about the conflict last semester. The UN is getting involved and telling Sudan what it’s plans are and they act as if no one told them anything. They are being childish. I agree that it is stupid to try and send if that many unwanted troops but if it has to be done, it has to be done. I am shocked that they are recruiting children to shoot. That is wrong, on more than one level. War is a horrid thing already because it steals fathers, husbands, and sons; but to steal the next generation before they have a chance to really live is morally wrong. The aid workers went over there out of kindness and they, especially the women, are getting taken advantage of. War is a horrible and disgusting thing but it seems as if it has to happen for the world to move on.
Source: NPR News, Washington
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100046288&docId=l:422144174&start=1
Sudan’s Moves in Darfur Concern U.S. Envoy
It’s been two years since the Bush administration first said the word genocide in reference to Darfur and the U.S. is finally renewing the push to get peacekeepers over there. A peace agreement was signed in May but that meant nothing to those over there. All sides of the war are accused of killing civilians. There has been a plan to quell the violence: to send more than 10,000 Sudanese troops. Sudan’s acting ambassador, Oman Monis, says that the Sudan government is opposing the idea of sending troops in and he does not know why so many people would try to send in troops if they would be unwelcome. Sudan says that they have not been consulted enough on the UN’s plans but others say they have already been consulted. Many aid workers have been killed in the last month and there are escalating reports of rape and the recruitment of children to fight in the war.
I feel that this situation has gotten out of control. Not many people know about Darfur. I first heard about the conflict last semester. The UN is getting involved and telling Sudan what it’s plans are and they act as if no one told them anything. They are being childish. I agree that it is stupid to try and send if that many unwanted troops but if it has to be done, it has to be done. I am shocked that they are recruiting children to shoot. That is wrong, on more than one level. War is a horrid thing already because it steals fathers, husbands, and sons; but to steal the next generation before they have a chance to really live is morally wrong. The aid workers went over there out of kindness and they, especially the women, are getting taken advantage of. War is a horrible and disgusting thing but it seems as if it has to happen for the world to move on.
Source: NPR News, Washington
http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100046288&docId=l:422144174&start=1
Long way to go in gender gap;
Tiffany Wilkie
Current Event Log
Topic: Gender and Family
Entry # 2
8/25/06
Copyright 2006 Newsday, Inc.
Newsday (New York)
August 24, 2006 Thursday NASSAU AND SUFFOLK EDITION
SECTION: OPINION; Pg. A43 HEADLINE: Long way to go in gender gap; Attitude shift needed to fully capitalize on women's talents.
This article discusses the gap between men and women in the business world. Not only is this a problem in the United States but globally. Most recent research conducted by Catalyst shows that "womenomics" (around the world smart business leaders are seeing women's equality as a new tool for economic growth) has come to a halt in recent years. A link to this is the lack of paid maternity leave, wage inequalities and quality childcare. The article goes on to say that for a change there needs to be an attitude shift with not only women but men also. By doing this it will bring a new set of skills and determination, in addition it will shed light on the neglected family and work issues.
After reading this article I was quite perplexed because as a woman in today's society I thought that the glass ceiling was cracking. I do not believe that women rising in the business world have come to a halt. There are many powerful women in offices around the world and I believe the numbers will continue to grow.
Current Event Log
Topic: Gender and Family
Entry # 2
8/25/06
Copyright 2006 Newsday, Inc.
Newsday (New York)
August 24, 2006 Thursday NASSAU AND SUFFOLK EDITION
SECTION: OPINION; Pg. A43 HEADLINE: Long way to go in gender gap; Attitude shift needed to fully capitalize on women's talents.
This article discusses the gap between men and women in the business world. Not only is this a problem in the United States but globally. Most recent research conducted by Catalyst shows that "womenomics" (around the world smart business leaders are seeing women's equality as a new tool for economic growth) has come to a halt in recent years. A link to this is the lack of paid maternity leave, wage inequalities and quality childcare. The article goes on to say that for a change there needs to be an attitude shift with not only women but men also. By doing this it will bring a new set of skills and determination, in addition it will shed light on the neglected family and work issues.
After reading this article I was quite perplexed because as a woman in today's society I thought that the glass ceiling was cracking. I do not believe that women rising in the business world have come to a halt. There are many powerful women in offices around the world and I believe the numbers will continue to grow.
Clean up the world
The article is about the "Clean up the world" campaign under the United Nations Environment Program. The program has the support of 35 million volunteers in 120 countries. Its purpose is to not only get people to clean up the areas in their own countries but also to get awareness out about how bad our enviroment is becoming and how our own actions effect it so much.Movements such as these are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people see the effects we are having on our environments and that we are all globally interconnected through the environment since the environment pays no attention to national boarders. "Clean up the World" plans to teach people how to do simple things like recycle and more involved things like cleaning up local areas in hopes that together we can make a difference in a positive direction.http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/document?_m=9fb2491a78093d6801ea8418763a9082&_docnum=14&wchp=dGLbVtz-zSkVA&_md5=17d664bf6a492f88c53b47f85d521ad2
Obesity not world’s long-term problem
Arwen Hernandez
Sociology 202-02
Current Event 2
August 24, 2006
Summary
“You can never be too rich or too slim.” In the majority
of the “rich” countries development, the mark of
development showed up the wealthier class first. Being
able to afford food showed in the increase of obesity in
places like England or America. Of course now, the obese
in these first world countries are generally regulated to
the lower and middle classes. The excess eating of fast
processed foods due to urbanization is the cause. Unlike
these countries, the underdeveloped ones are now
experiencing obesity but it is hitting the lower to middle
classes first. Mexicans are now as fat as Americans.
Places like Kuwait, Thailand, and Tunisia’s populations are
25 to 50 percent more obese. In other countries it is
mostly the women that have achieved the classification of
obese. For example, South African and Egyptian both fall
into this category. Not only is obesity blooming in the
lower classes but this is happening at a much earlier point
in their development. This is due to the urbanization that
causes a shift in diet. Predominately the shift between
rural and urban diets that is being seen in a large number
of countries around the globe. Another factor is that
global warming is going to effect what agricultural,
healthy, regions we have left. Eventually obesity will
really become the norm. Cheap fats and sweeteners are
becoming more and more prevalent.
Response
“Obesity is the norm globally (…).” It is a widely known
fact that Americans are reputed to be the most obese
nation. Apparently we are not alone in this anymore.
Obesity is attacking all corners of the globe. A large
significance of obesity becoming a globally renowned
disease is the consequences or byproducts. Obesity does
not act alone. Obesity related diseases follow in its
footsteps. The increase of diabetes and heart failure has
already begun to take notice in Kuwait, Thailand, and
Tunisia. The fact that obesity is now out numbering the
starving is absolutely ridiculous. The urbanization, the
rapid urbanization of these under developing countries has
caused third and second world countries to achieve the
position to bring in processed and fast foods. This is a
direct cause, in excess, of obesity. According to Dyer,
“higher incomes, mass marketing of processed foods, and
work patterns involving much less physical labor” is caused
directly by urbanization. The impact of this rapid
urbanization will cause more and more nations to be overrun
with obesity and with the diseases it causes. There are
some options any nation can take, promoting health
consciousness and making healthier foods cheaper and easier
to access. This however would bring food sales down and no
country wants that.
Dyer, Gwynne. “Obesity not world’s long-term problem.”
North Bay Nugget(Ontario) (2006): A6. LexisNexis. UNC Greensboro Lib., Greensboro, NC. 24 August 2006.
http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/document?_m=f037d49592f134dbb697e6ecd459af57&_docnum=17&wchp=dGLzVlz-zSkVA&_md5=de2883e0610f5d32d2227d3488ca582e
Sociology 202-02
Current Event 2
August 24, 2006
Summary
“You can never be too rich or too slim.” In the majority
of the “rich” countries development, the mark of
development showed up the wealthier class first. Being
able to afford food showed in the increase of obesity in
places like England or America. Of course now, the obese
in these first world countries are generally regulated to
the lower and middle classes. The excess eating of fast
processed foods due to urbanization is the cause. Unlike
these countries, the underdeveloped ones are now
experiencing obesity but it is hitting the lower to middle
classes first. Mexicans are now as fat as Americans.
Places like Kuwait, Thailand, and Tunisia’s populations are
25 to 50 percent more obese. In other countries it is
mostly the women that have achieved the classification of
obese. For example, South African and Egyptian both fall
into this category. Not only is obesity blooming in the
lower classes but this is happening at a much earlier point
in their development. This is due to the urbanization that
causes a shift in diet. Predominately the shift between
rural and urban diets that is being seen in a large number
of countries around the globe. Another factor is that
global warming is going to effect what agricultural,
healthy, regions we have left. Eventually obesity will
really become the norm. Cheap fats and sweeteners are
becoming more and more prevalent.
Response
“Obesity is the norm globally (…).” It is a widely known
fact that Americans are reputed to be the most obese
nation. Apparently we are not alone in this anymore.
Obesity is attacking all corners of the globe. A large
significance of obesity becoming a globally renowned
disease is the consequences or byproducts. Obesity does
not act alone. Obesity related diseases follow in its
footsteps. The increase of diabetes and heart failure has
already begun to take notice in Kuwait, Thailand, and
Tunisia. The fact that obesity is now out numbering the
starving is absolutely ridiculous. The urbanization, the
rapid urbanization of these under developing countries has
caused third and second world countries to achieve the
position to bring in processed and fast foods. This is a
direct cause, in excess, of obesity. According to Dyer,
“higher incomes, mass marketing of processed foods, and
work patterns involving much less physical labor” is caused
directly by urbanization. The impact of this rapid
urbanization will cause more and more nations to be overrun
with obesity and with the diseases it causes. There are
some options any nation can take, promoting health
consciousness and making healthier foods cheaper and easier
to access. This however would bring food sales down and no
country wants that.
Dyer, Gwynne. “Obesity not world’s long-term problem.”
North Bay Nugget(Ontario) (2006): A6. LexisNexis. UNC Greensboro Lib., Greensboro, NC. 24 August 2006.
http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/document?_m=f037d49592f134dbb697e6ecd459af57&_docnum=17&wchp=dGLzVlz-zSkVA&_md5=de2883e0610f5d32d2227d3488ca582e
Feminisation of Aids And Poverty On the Rise
Christina Thompson
ARTICLE #2
ISSUE: GENDER AND FAMILY
SOC 202-02
08/23/2006
August 22, 2006 an article published by the Africa News Service newspaper called “Feminisation of Aids And Poverty On the Rise” and explains how women are the new face of AIDS. For many years, it is widely known that AIDS was associated with gay men, but many factors are changing the known victims. The high rates of infection of AIDS in women were mostly seen in the continent of Africa and parts of Asia. Gender discrimination mixed with violence against women stemmed from a women’s lack of voice in relationships, lack of education and good jobs.According to the article nearly 60% of HIV cases in southern Africa and women and more than 75% of those who are HV positive between the ages of 15 and 24 years old are female. In southern Asia around 35% of those living with HIV are female. (p1, 2006). I agree with this article. It stated that a big part of the problem lies within the government of these countries because anything sexual is regarded as taboo.Everyone is afraid to step up and admit to having sex. Less women being that their lives and reputations will be ruined will ever go to the doctor for a sexual related problem. In third world countries, the lack of the proper medical supplies and medications makes those living with HIV and AIDS die at higher rates. This is a global problem because even though Africa and Asia has some of the poorest and oppressed women and no one is doing much to stop it. It is hard to come into a country such as South Africa, which for many years denied the link between HIV and AIDS and tell that government what to do. Stiff cultural and traditional values must be broken in order for women in these countries to receive the care that they need. The women who are in abusive relationships/marriages with men who cheat on them, I do not know how that problem could possibly be fixed. I suppose in a prefect world, these men could be sent to anger management classes and then both partners could be sent to married counseling. The resources for such luxuries are not an option in the poorest areas of Africa and Asia. The only remedy is that women’s whole image is changed and are treated as first class citizens with the backing of strict laws against gender discrimination.
WORKS CITED:"Feminisation of Aids And Poverty On the Rise." Africa News Service (August 22, 2006): NA. InfoTrac OneFile. Thomson Gale. University of North Carolina-Greensboro. 24 Aug 2006.http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2124/itx/infomark.do?&contentSet\u003dIAC-Documents& type\u003dretrieve&tabID\u003dT004& prodId\u003dITOF&docId\u003dA149883586&source\u003dgale&srcprod\u003dITOF&userGroupName\u003dgree35277&version\u003d1.0.",0]
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WORKS CITED:"Feminisation of Aids And Poverty On the Rise." Africa News Service (August 22, 2006): NA. InfoTrac OneFile. Thomson Gale. University of North Carolina-Greensboro. 24 Aug 2006.http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2124/itx/infomark.do?&contentSet=IAC-Documents& type=retrieve&tabID=T004& prodId=ITOF&docId=A149883586&source=gale&srcprod=ITOF&userGroupName=gree35277&version=1.0.
We Arabs must wage a new form of Jihad
Shemiah Foster
Ethnicity and Religion
Current Event #2
Ahmed Zewail: We Arabs must wage a new form of Jihad
This article is basically stating why it now appears that after these detrimental wars in Lebanon, Palestine, and Iraq Arabian people must start building new systems for the future. It also states that they should have four "pillars of change", to get back to the prominent world that they once were, that produced leading civilization, world-class universities, and renowned scholars and scientists.
I'm not very familiar with Arabian beliefs or customs, but I was able to see why they would feel like they are looked at in a different light than they once were, before the wars started. It seemed understandable that they would want to make some adjustments so they would not always appear in such a negative way. I thought the four "pillars of change" was a good place to start in trying to renew their image. Even with all his thought and hard-work put into this plan of reconstruction, I don't know if Muslim or Arabian religion will ever be viewed the same.
The Independent 24 August 2006
http://comment.independent.co.uk/commentators/article1221287.ece
Ethnicity and Religion
Current Event #2
Ahmed Zewail: We Arabs must wage a new form of Jihad
This article is basically stating why it now appears that after these detrimental wars in Lebanon, Palestine, and Iraq Arabian people must start building new systems for the future. It also states that they should have four "pillars of change", to get back to the prominent world that they once were, that produced leading civilization, world-class universities, and renowned scholars and scientists.
I'm not very familiar with Arabian beliefs or customs, but I was able to see why they would feel like they are looked at in a different light than they once were, before the wars started. It seemed understandable that they would want to make some adjustments so they would not always appear in such a negative way. I thought the four "pillars of change" was a good place to start in trying to renew their image. Even with all his thought and hard-work put into this plan of reconstruction, I don't know if Muslim or Arabian religion will ever be viewed the same.
The Independent 24 August 2006
http://comment.independent.co.uk/commentators/article1221287.ece
What Class are you in?
Justine Bubar
08/25/06
Soc202- Current Event
On the Oprah Winfrey Show yesterday, the topic of discussion was class. She invited people from every class on to her show to discuss how they feel about the place they are in and what got them there. She asked questions like “Do you think you’ll ever move up?,” “Do you think your kids might?” The answers varied but most everyone was aware that they were either gifted or cheated.
On the show Oprah had two people that are in the “one percent” of the nation, old money. Two people with plenty of opportunity and tons of money. One of the two was Jamie Johnson, an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical “fortune.” Jamie was born into a rich family and knows nothing else. However, he has used his money in a productive way to make movies and show America what living the life is like. This doesn’t sit well with any of his rich family members, father, grandfather etc. Jamie disagrees with the gap between upper and lower class saying that “it doesn’t work for America,” yet he admits that he would not be comfortable with a smaller amount of money. Nicole Buffet also appeared on the show, Warren Buffets granddaughter, whom is the second richest man in the world. However, she did not grow up like Jamie because of her grandfather wanting her to live a normal life.
Anyway, the most important and interesting part of the show was Robert Reich, who was the Secretary of Labor for Clinton. He is also an expert on class and social policy. He said that there are three unsaid things in America that can determine your class, without your saying. Those three things would be teeth, weight, and your accent. If all these things are fine and dandy, but most importantly non-offensive (it depends who you are being critiqued by) then well, you must have some money. If your teeth are crooked or yellow, your weight heavier-than-average, and your dialect is strong (Boston, NY, Chicago) than most people would consider you lower class. Oprah also took some questioning to the streets. Some people said that being a mechanic, a garbage man, and smoking would also indicate your lower class.
Sources: The Oprah Winfrey Show. www.Oprah.com, “What class are you?” 08/24/06
08/25/06
Soc202- Current Event
On the Oprah Winfrey Show yesterday, the topic of discussion was class. She invited people from every class on to her show to discuss how they feel about the place they are in and what got them there. She asked questions like “Do you think you’ll ever move up?,” “Do you think your kids might?” The answers varied but most everyone was aware that they were either gifted or cheated.
On the show Oprah had two people that are in the “one percent” of the nation, old money. Two people with plenty of opportunity and tons of money. One of the two was Jamie Johnson, an heir to the Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical “fortune.” Jamie was born into a rich family and knows nothing else. However, he has used his money in a productive way to make movies and show America what living the life is like. This doesn’t sit well with any of his rich family members, father, grandfather etc. Jamie disagrees with the gap between upper and lower class saying that “it doesn’t work for America,” yet he admits that he would not be comfortable with a smaller amount of money. Nicole Buffet also appeared on the show, Warren Buffets granddaughter, whom is the second richest man in the world. However, she did not grow up like Jamie because of her grandfather wanting her to live a normal life.
Anyway, the most important and interesting part of the show was Robert Reich, who was the Secretary of Labor for Clinton. He is also an expert on class and social policy. He said that there are three unsaid things in America that can determine your class, without your saying. Those three things would be teeth, weight, and your accent. If all these things are fine and dandy, but most importantly non-offensive (it depends who you are being critiqued by) then well, you must have some money. If your teeth are crooked or yellow, your weight heavier-than-average, and your dialect is strong (Boston, NY, Chicago) than most people would consider you lower class. Oprah also took some questioning to the streets. Some people said that being a mechanic, a garbage man, and smoking would also indicate your lower class.
Sources: The Oprah Winfrey Show. www.Oprah.com, “What class are you?” 08/24/06
Technology and Terror
Current Event #2
Soc 202-02
Usman Baig
United States and some European countries are considering using more advance tools to detect terror suspects on flights. The current database between that is being shared between United States and European countries allow the authorities to match the name on watch list and look into customer’s personal information such as home address, email address, payment information and lots of other things which some people consider invasion of their privacy. The recently created database prompted after British terror plot was foiled. Civil liberties and privacy expert have raised their voice against current measures being taken by the authorities. Starting in fall European would have the authority to submit a passenger list to U.S authorities before plan takes off for U.S. which would allow authorities to run a suspicious passenger’s name through a terror database to match any information. Europeans currently have no system in place to access to a passenger’s information such as name, address and other information. The current agreement allows limited access to passenger’s information. By the end of September this new system will be introduced to Europeans. Some experts believe even such an advance technology would not prevent terrorist to carry out their attacks. I think the new system which will be in effect by this fall is allow authorities unlimited access to an individual’s information. I understand safety of the people is number one priority but at the same time law enforcement agencies should not break the law. I think the new system would provoke racial profiling because authorities would only be looking for Muslim passengers. They should check every single person’s background on a flight not just people with Middle Eastern background.
Citation: Eric Lipton, “Officials Seek Broader Access to Airline Data” The New York Times: August 21, 2006
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/22/washington/22data.html
Soc 202-02
Usman Baig
United States and some European countries are considering using more advance tools to detect terror suspects on flights. The current database between that is being shared between United States and European countries allow the authorities to match the name on watch list and look into customer’s personal information such as home address, email address, payment information and lots of other things which some people consider invasion of their privacy. The recently created database prompted after British terror plot was foiled. Civil liberties and privacy expert have raised their voice against current measures being taken by the authorities. Starting in fall European would have the authority to submit a passenger list to U.S authorities before plan takes off for U.S. which would allow authorities to run a suspicious passenger’s name through a terror database to match any information. Europeans currently have no system in place to access to a passenger’s information such as name, address and other information. The current agreement allows limited access to passenger’s information. By the end of September this new system will be introduced to Europeans. Some experts believe even such an advance technology would not prevent terrorist to carry out their attacks. I think the new system which will be in effect by this fall is allow authorities unlimited access to an individual’s information. I understand safety of the people is number one priority but at the same time law enforcement agencies should not break the law. I think the new system would provoke racial profiling because authorities would only be looking for Muslim passengers. They should check every single person’s background on a flight not just people with Middle Eastern background.
Citation: Eric Lipton, “Officials Seek Broader Access to Airline Data” The New York Times: August 21, 2006
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/22/washington/22data.html
Five persons beheaded for alleged wichcraft in India’s Assam
Five persons beheaded for alleged wichcraft in India’s Assam
IRNA( Islamic Republic News Agency), http://www.irna.ir/en/news/view/line-20/0608222470174613.htm
Five people were killed because they were believe to have practice witchcraft. The headline only mention about the five people being beheaded near Assam, India. The five people were just for the recurrent events for over the last five years there have been at least 200 people been killed. It is performed by a group of mop like that maybe randomly killing people who they believe to be practicing the practice of witchcraft or that the people that is been killed are putting a curse on the village. Police in India are searching for the killers. I really am shock by this what I have to say for this is WHY? Why would a group of people just go out and kill people. This is international events but then if we looked back the Salem-Witch Trail is the same thing that is occur right now. It is only suspension; yet people are being kill. There’re culture and custom in India that people practice for century now and it is not witchcraft why does it change now. Change to the point that people are being kill. Once one kill someone it is a crime. Furthermore, the people in India are being very superstition; how could someone curse their own village continue to stay there. Then wait for the mob to come and kill them. That really does not make sense first of all and the fact that it is a group of people but the police unable to find at least one person out of the group. It seem the police themselves are hiding something. Maybe these death does not have to do with them having been involve with witchcraft at all. It could be the government excuse for having such mob in their society.
IRNA( Islamic Republic News Agency), http://www.irna.ir/en/news/view/line-20/0608222470174613.htm
Five people were killed because they were believe to have practice witchcraft. The headline only mention about the five people being beheaded near Assam, India. The five people were just for the recurrent events for over the last five years there have been at least 200 people been killed. It is performed by a group of mop like that maybe randomly killing people who they believe to be practicing the practice of witchcraft or that the people that is been killed are putting a curse on the village. Police in India are searching for the killers. I really am shock by this what I have to say for this is WHY? Why would a group of people just go out and kill people. This is international events but then if we looked back the Salem-Witch Trail is the same thing that is occur right now. It is only suspension; yet people are being kill. There’re culture and custom in India that people practice for century now and it is not witchcraft why does it change now. Change to the point that people are being kill. Once one kill someone it is a crime. Furthermore, the people in India are being very superstition; how could someone curse their own village continue to stay there. Then wait for the mob to come and kill them. That really does not make sense first of all and the fact that it is a group of people but the police unable to find at least one person out of the group. It seem the police themselves are hiding something. Maybe these death does not have to do with them having been involve with witchcraft at all. It could be the government excuse for having such mob in their society.
United Nations Development Fund for Women
Michelle Bradt
Current Events 2
The United Nation’s article on domestic violence in Afghanistan is alarming. Since the outbreak of war in Iraq and now with the recent crisis in Lebanon, many around the world have forgotten the fighting and the subsequent instilling of democracy (if you can call it that) that the Bush administration started in Afghanistan in response to the attacks on September 11th. According to this article, however, some issues have not improved so vastly as our media and government would like us to believe. Domestic abuse- sexual, physical, or psychological- continues in Afghanistan, just as it does in every country throughout our world. More than eight out of every ten acts of domestic violence in Afghanistan, according to a study entitled Uncounted and Discounted done between January 2003 and June 2005, is perpetrated by a family member. Ten percent of attacks are made by women.
Clearly, domestic violence is an issue that affects the globe. No culture (that I am aware of) is void of its vice, and many cultures do little of anything to combat the problem. The United Nations has programs and committees devoted to the betterment of life for women throughout the world, and they strive to make higher goals and standards for gender equality in every nation. This isn’t enough. Governments local to each country, including the United States, need to make more of an effort to choke this problem and to hold the people of the world accountable for the way we treat our family members, particularly women and children, as they are most frequently the receivers of such abuses. This article points out the recent endemic in Afghanistan, but domestic violence and abuse is undoubtedly a global issue.
14 August 2006. United Nations Development Fund for Women. UN News Centre online. http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=19512&Cr=afghan&Cr1=
Current Events 2
The United Nation’s article on domestic violence in Afghanistan is alarming. Since the outbreak of war in Iraq and now with the recent crisis in Lebanon, many around the world have forgotten the fighting and the subsequent instilling of democracy (if you can call it that) that the Bush administration started in Afghanistan in response to the attacks on September 11th. According to this article, however, some issues have not improved so vastly as our media and government would like us to believe. Domestic abuse- sexual, physical, or psychological- continues in Afghanistan, just as it does in every country throughout our world. More than eight out of every ten acts of domestic violence in Afghanistan, according to a study entitled Uncounted and Discounted done between January 2003 and June 2005, is perpetrated by a family member. Ten percent of attacks are made by women.
Clearly, domestic violence is an issue that affects the globe. No culture (that I am aware of) is void of its vice, and many cultures do little of anything to combat the problem. The United Nations has programs and committees devoted to the betterment of life for women throughout the world, and they strive to make higher goals and standards for gender equality in every nation. This isn’t enough. Governments local to each country, including the United States, need to make more of an effort to choke this problem and to hold the people of the world accountable for the way we treat our family members, particularly women and children, as they are most frequently the receivers of such abuses. This article points out the recent endemic in Afghanistan, but domestic violence and abuse is undoubtedly a global issue.
14 August 2006. United Nations Development Fund for Women. UN News Centre online. http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=19512&Cr=afghan&Cr1=
MySpace founder adds China to friends list
Jennifer Protulipac
August 25, 2006
Current Events Log: Week Two
“MySpace founder adds China to friends list”
It seems as though I cannot escape it. A large portion of my friends use it, and therefore also bring it up frequently in conversation. It is constantly receiving attention in the news. Even a significant portion of my professors have mentioned it in the classroom this semester. It is absolutely a hot topic. It is MySpace, and according to the article “MySpace founder adds China to friends list” it, as well as other websites similar in nature, are spreading across the globe.
Brad Greenspan is the founder of the eUniverse company, which is the parent company to multiple websites including a few popular dating websites and social networking sites, including MySpace. The article, “MySpace founder adds China to friends list” details the great economic success that Greenspan has had with the eUniverse company, recently renamed Intermix and News Corp., in particular with the MySpace website. For example, Intermix and News Corp. had recently become a partner of a deal formed between MySpace and Google which is bringing in 900 million dollars.
Witnessing the success of MySpace, Greenspan has decided to broaden his market with the formation of his newest company: BroadWebAsia. BroadWebAsia is meant to emulate MySpace as it too will focus on social networking and entertainment. To ensure that BroadWebAsia will be prosperous, Greenspan is working with twenty previously existing internet companies in China in order to merge into the new market in a secure manner considering the Chinese government has much stricter laws regarding censorship. BroadWebAsia is meant to serve 120 million internet users, to earn approximately 50 million dollars, and to require only fifteen employees to operate the company. Clearly, BroadWebAsia will be another hot topic in no time.
It seems as though my sentiments of never being able to escape MySpace will soon be shared with numerous internet users on the other side of the world. Personally, I do not fully agree with the formation of social networking websites such as MySpace. While I can understand usefulness of the website regarding occupational networking, as well as entertainment access, I also feel that there is a major security problem with MySpace and websites like it. Nevertheless, I can fully respect the business side of the website. Greenspan’s financial success with the Intermix and News Corp. Company, which includes MySpace, is plain to see. I think it is extremely intelligent to then extend this prosperous domestic business into the international market. Furthermore, the decision to base the BroadWebAsia company in China is a wise one on Greenspan’s part. The article details how while this company will be accessible to 120 million internet users, it also explains that this is solely ten percent of the population of China; consequentially, the room for growth in this market is so great that BroadWebAsia is sure to be a success. Greenspan is taking advantage of the rapidly rising number of internet users in this extremely populous industrializing nation, which is nothing but good business sense.
Citation:
"MySpace founder adds China to friends list." CNN.com 08/24/2006 August 24, 2006
<http://www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/internet/08/24/myspace.china.reut/index.html> .
August 25, 2006
Current Events Log: Week Two
“MySpace founder adds China to friends list”
It seems as though I cannot escape it. A large portion of my friends use it, and therefore also bring it up frequently in conversation. It is constantly receiving attention in the news. Even a significant portion of my professors have mentioned it in the classroom this semester. It is absolutely a hot topic. It is MySpace, and according to the article “MySpace founder adds China to friends list” it, as well as other websites similar in nature, are spreading across the globe.
Brad Greenspan is the founder of the eUniverse company, which is the parent company to multiple websites including a few popular dating websites and social networking sites, including MySpace. The article, “MySpace founder adds China to friends list” details the great economic success that Greenspan has had with the eUniverse company, recently renamed Intermix and News Corp., in particular with the MySpace website. For example, Intermix and News Corp. had recently become a partner of a deal formed between MySpace and Google which is bringing in 900 million dollars.
Witnessing the success of MySpace, Greenspan has decided to broaden his market with the formation of his newest company: BroadWebAsia. BroadWebAsia is meant to emulate MySpace as it too will focus on social networking and entertainment. To ensure that BroadWebAsia will be prosperous, Greenspan is working with twenty previously existing internet companies in China in order to merge into the new market in a secure manner considering the Chinese government has much stricter laws regarding censorship. BroadWebAsia is meant to serve 120 million internet users, to earn approximately 50 million dollars, and to require only fifteen employees to operate the company. Clearly, BroadWebAsia will be another hot topic in no time.
It seems as though my sentiments of never being able to escape MySpace will soon be shared with numerous internet users on the other side of the world. Personally, I do not fully agree with the formation of social networking websites such as MySpace. While I can understand usefulness of the website regarding occupational networking, as well as entertainment access, I also feel that there is a major security problem with MySpace and websites like it. Nevertheless, I can fully respect the business side of the website. Greenspan’s financial success with the Intermix and News Corp. Company, which includes MySpace, is plain to see. I think it is extremely intelligent to then extend this prosperous domestic business into the international market. Furthermore, the decision to base the BroadWebAsia company in China is a wise one on Greenspan’s part. The article details how while this company will be accessible to 120 million internet users, it also explains that this is solely ten percent of the population of China; consequentially, the room for growth in this market is so great that BroadWebAsia is sure to be a success. Greenspan is taking advantage of the rapidly rising number of internet users in this extremely populous industrializing nation, which is nothing but good business sense.
Citation:
"MySpace founder adds China to friends list." CNN.com 08/24/2006 August 24, 2006
<http://www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/internet/08/24/myspace.china.reut/index.html> .
Ozone Damage
Kelley Wilson
SOC 202-02
Current Event #2
Scientists discovered several years ago that the ozone layer has been significantly damaged. Pollution is the main resource that caused colossal damage to the ozone layer. Scientists configured that it would take until the year 2050 for the ozone to recover. But they recently discovered that more harm has been done. Scientists now believe that is will take fifteen years longer than expected for the ozone layer to fully recover.
The explanation for the additional damage is due to chemical compounds that have leaked from refrigerators, air conditioners and other devices. These substances have exposed the Earth to dangerous solar rays. Ultraviolet radiation will result from the unprotected ozone, causing skin cancer and killing plant life that is functional for the food chain. There is also an ozone hole over the Antarctic expecting to deteriorate over the years to come. Each year, a new portion of the Antarctic ozone hole has opened producing a thin area of the upper stratosphere absorbing radiation gases. Chlorofluorocarbons or CFC’s are the contributing factor to the discovery of the additional ozone damage. Scientists have revealed CFC’s come from air conditioners, aerosol spray cans, and other equipment.
There has been a decline in the use of CFC’s. Many countries around the world have devoted to decrease the usage of chlorofluorocarbon items. Thus far it has helped the first two atmosphere layers over the earth, but researchers still believe that it will take until 2065 for the ozone layer to recover.
SOC 202-02
Current Event #2
Scientists discovered several years ago that the ozone layer has been significantly damaged. Pollution is the main resource that caused colossal damage to the ozone layer. Scientists configured that it would take until the year 2050 for the ozone to recover. But they recently discovered that more harm has been done. Scientists now believe that is will take fifteen years longer than expected for the ozone layer to fully recover.
The explanation for the additional damage is due to chemical compounds that have leaked from refrigerators, air conditioners and other devices. These substances have exposed the Earth to dangerous solar rays. Ultraviolet radiation will result from the unprotected ozone, causing skin cancer and killing plant life that is functional for the food chain. There is also an ozone hole over the Antarctic expecting to deteriorate over the years to come. Each year, a new portion of the Antarctic ozone hole has opened producing a thin area of the upper stratosphere absorbing radiation gases. Chlorofluorocarbons or CFC’s are the contributing factor to the discovery of the additional ozone damage. Scientists have revealed CFC’s come from air conditioners, aerosol spray cans, and other equipment.
There has been a decline in the use of CFC’s. Many countries around the world have devoted to decrease the usage of chlorofluorocarbon items. Thus far it has helped the first two atmosphere layers over the earth, but researchers still believe that it will take until 2065 for the ozone layer to recover.
Ozone Damage
Kelley Wilson
SOC 202-02
Current Event #2
Scientists discovered several years ago that the ozone layer has been significantly damaged. Pollution is the main resource that caused colossal damage to the ozone layer. Scientists configured that it would take until the year 2050 for the ozone to recover. But they recently discovered that more harm has been done. Scientists now believe that is will take fifteen years longer than expected for the ozone layer to fully recover.
The explanation for the additional damage is due to chemical compounds that have leaked from refrigerators, air conditioners and other devices. These substances have exposed the Earth to dangerous solar rays. Ultraviolet radiation will result from the unprotected ozone, causing skin cancer and killing plant life that is functional for the food chain. There is also an ozone hole over the Antarctic expecting to deteriorate over the years to come. Each year, a new portion of the Antarctic ozone hole has opened producing a thin area of the upper stratosphere absorbing radiation gases. Chlorofluorocarbons or CFC’s are the contributing factor to the discovery of the additional ozone damage. Scientists have revealed CFC’s come from air conditioners, aerosol spray cans, and other equipment.
There has been a decline in the use of CFC’s. Many countries around the world have devoted to decrease the usage of chlorofluorocarbon items. Thus far it has helped the first two atmosphere layers over the earth, but researchers still believe that it will take until 2065 for the ozone layer to recover.
SOC 202-02
Current Event #2
Scientists discovered several years ago that the ozone layer has been significantly damaged. Pollution is the main resource that caused colossal damage to the ozone layer. Scientists configured that it would take until the year 2050 for the ozone to recover. But they recently discovered that more harm has been done. Scientists now believe that is will take fifteen years longer than expected for the ozone layer to fully recover.
The explanation for the additional damage is due to chemical compounds that have leaked from refrigerators, air conditioners and other devices. These substances have exposed the Earth to dangerous solar rays. Ultraviolet radiation will result from the unprotected ozone, causing skin cancer and killing plant life that is functional for the food chain. There is also an ozone hole over the Antarctic expecting to deteriorate over the years to come. Each year, a new portion of the Antarctic ozone hole has opened producing a thin area of the upper stratosphere absorbing radiation gases. Chlorofluorocarbons or CFC’s are the contributing factor to the discovery of the additional ozone damage. Scientists have revealed CFC’s come from air conditioners, aerosol spray cans, and other equipment.
There has been a decline in the use of CFC’s. Many countries around the world have devoted to decrease the usage of chlorofluorocarbon items. Thus far it has helped the first two atmosphere layers over the earth, but researchers still believe that it will take until 2065 for the ozone layer to recover.
In Battle Against Drugs, Europe Must Help Latin America Find Alternative Crops - UN
Caitlin Walter
Sociology 202
August 24, 2006
Current Event #2
The United Nations has taken another step to fight the drugs in our world. The United Nations anti-narcotic agency has spoken with the European Union to once again try to encourage farmers in poor countries to choose a different livelihood to attempt to put a stop to drug trafficking around the world. The UN voiced its opinion that Europe should send rescue to problems areas, areas that are not stable and full of violence. They must hit these areas to “tackle the problem at the source” (1). The problems of other nations could easily become the problems of Europe if they didn’t take action. While Europe can’t make the choice for these countries, they can be a positive influence by helping to supply certain needs.
The phrase that really hit my topic, in addition to my own personal feelings, right on the head was:
EU leaders should drive home the message to their people that there is a direct link between drug consumption in Europe and serious crime in the drug-producing countries of Latin America. When you buy a line of cocaine, you are putting money into the pockets of Latin American criminals. (1)
Once again, here we have a tie between drugs and crime. Besides the fact that selling illegal drugs IS a crime, it also encourages crime. These drugs rule some of these peoples’ lives, whether it is their source of income or just a habit. For some of these countries, growing and selling drugs is all they know and is the only way they think they can make somewhat of a living for themselves. Individuals involved with drugs will do just about anything if they’re caught up in it enough – ranging from stealing to beating to killing. One thing that kind of jumped out at me from the article was the reference the article made about, “Reducing drug supply must go hand in hand with promoting development and job-creation” (1). I think this ties in with my topic because of the drug-crime aspect of it, but also of what we’ve been talking about in class recently. How globalization hasn’t gotten to some of these poor countries yet, or even if it has, the globalization aspect might be part of why they’re so poor and resort to selling drugs. We might look at it as promoting development and creating jobs, but the affects of cheap labor, using the natural resources of other nations for our OWN good and ignoring theirs, have put some of these countries in a horrible state.. So the thought came to mind, “Could we, in a way, be causing our drug problems?” Because of the exploitation we’re imposing on other nations to profit for ourselves and leaving them in the dust to things such as drug trafficking, are we indirectly causing our own problems? It’s something to think about.
"In Battle Against Drugs, Europe Must Help Latin America Find Alternative Crops - UN." States News Service. 11 May 2006. States News Service. 24 Aug. 2006
Sociology 202
August 24, 2006
Current Event #2
The United Nations has taken another step to fight the drugs in our world. The United Nations anti-narcotic agency has spoken with the European Union to once again try to encourage farmers in poor countries to choose a different livelihood to attempt to put a stop to drug trafficking around the world. The UN voiced its opinion that Europe should send rescue to problems areas, areas that are not stable and full of violence. They must hit these areas to “tackle the problem at the source” (1). The problems of other nations could easily become the problems of Europe if they didn’t take action. While Europe can’t make the choice for these countries, they can be a positive influence by helping to supply certain needs.
The phrase that really hit my topic, in addition to my own personal feelings, right on the head was:
EU leaders should drive home the message to their people that there is a direct link between drug consumption in Europe and serious crime in the drug-producing countries of Latin America. When you buy a line of cocaine, you are putting money into the pockets of Latin American criminals. (1)
Once again, here we have a tie between drugs and crime. Besides the fact that selling illegal drugs IS a crime, it also encourages crime. These drugs rule some of these peoples’ lives, whether it is their source of income or just a habit. For some of these countries, growing and selling drugs is all they know and is the only way they think they can make somewhat of a living for themselves. Individuals involved with drugs will do just about anything if they’re caught up in it enough – ranging from stealing to beating to killing. One thing that kind of jumped out at me from the article was the reference the article made about, “Reducing drug supply must go hand in hand with promoting development and job-creation” (1). I think this ties in with my topic because of the drug-crime aspect of it, but also of what we’ve been talking about in class recently. How globalization hasn’t gotten to some of these poor countries yet, or even if it has, the globalization aspect might be part of why they’re so poor and resort to selling drugs. We might look at it as promoting development and creating jobs, but the affects of cheap labor, using the natural resources of other nations for our OWN good and ignoring theirs, have put some of these countries in a horrible state.. So the thought came to mind, “Could we, in a way, be causing our drug problems?” Because of the exploitation we’re imposing on other nations to profit for ourselves and leaving them in the dust to things such as drug trafficking, are we indirectly causing our own problems? It’s something to think about.
"In Battle Against Drugs, Europe Must Help Latin America Find Alternative Crops - UN." States News Service. 11 May 2006. States News Service. 24 Aug. 2006
Sticks and stones will break your bones…
Sticks and stones will break your bones…
Amy Owen
Sticks and stones will break your bones, but appearances can take away your rights. This statement proves to be true not only in American, but also in Palestine. In Palestine Steve Centanni was captured by Holy Jihad Brigades. Steve’s wife understands that the people holding him have endured great suffering, but she feels that because her husband is American they think he has created the injustices that they face (Fairfax New Zealand Limited). Another instance (not as extreme) happened here in America. Mr. Walia was walking down the road wearing a turban, when a car full of guys pulled in front of him and began yelling out slurs at him. His fear forced him to call the police. Once the men realized what he was doing they fled, but Mr. Walia felt that the police did not handle the situation fairly either. They only told him to leave the area, while not asking for any details of the previous situation. Mr. Walia feels that this is not a secluded situation, but something that faces other Sikhs in the community (Harold).
Even thought the second case was not as extreme as the first we can still recognize the fact that both of the men’s right to not feel threatened was taken based on physical appearance and the assumption people have about those appearances. I know here in America fear of another attack is fresh in our minds, but as global citizens we need to remember that human rights are not American rights. When we see people like Steve threatened we want to stand up and say no that unfair. Hate America’s politics but don’t hate us. But we are quick to say that a man wearing a turban is a terrorist. Mr. Walia is not a terrorist and he isn’t violent. He wears a turban because he feels his hair is sacred (Harold). It is not worn out of hate, but love of his faith.
"Fairfax New Zealand Limited." McNaught presses for husband's release 25/Aug/2006 1-2. 25/Aug/2006 <http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/print/0,1478,3775843a10,00.html>.
Harold, John. "Auckland:Local News-Story." Sikhs face race hate 23/Aug/2006 25/Aug/2006 <http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/auckland/0,2106,3773967a6497,00.html>.
Amy Owen
Sticks and stones will break your bones, but appearances can take away your rights. This statement proves to be true not only in American, but also in Palestine. In Palestine Steve Centanni was captured by Holy Jihad Brigades. Steve’s wife understands that the people holding him have endured great suffering, but she feels that because her husband is American they think he has created the injustices that they face (Fairfax New Zealand Limited). Another instance (not as extreme) happened here in America. Mr. Walia was walking down the road wearing a turban, when a car full of guys pulled in front of him and began yelling out slurs at him. His fear forced him to call the police. Once the men realized what he was doing they fled, but Mr. Walia felt that the police did not handle the situation fairly either. They only told him to leave the area, while not asking for any details of the previous situation. Mr. Walia feels that this is not a secluded situation, but something that faces other Sikhs in the community (Harold).
Even thought the second case was not as extreme as the first we can still recognize the fact that both of the men’s right to not feel threatened was taken based on physical appearance and the assumption people have about those appearances. I know here in America fear of another attack is fresh in our minds, but as global citizens we need to remember that human rights are not American rights. When we see people like Steve threatened we want to stand up and say no that unfair. Hate America’s politics but don’t hate us. But we are quick to say that a man wearing a turban is a terrorist. Mr. Walia is not a terrorist and he isn’t violent. He wears a turban because he feels his hair is sacred (Harold). It is not worn out of hate, but love of his faith.
"Fairfax New Zealand Limited." McNaught presses for husband's release 25/Aug/2006 1-2. 25/Aug/2006 <http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/print/0,1478,3775843a10,00.html>.
Harold, John. "Auckland:Local News-Story." Sikhs face race hate 23/Aug/2006 25/Aug/2006 <http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/auckland/0,2106,3773967a6497,00.html>.
Muslim Land-Grabbers in Pakistan Attack Christians
Many muslims have terrorized chrsitian villages in Pakistan in order to land grab. There have been men hospitalized from hatchet wounds and one man was even abducted and cannot be found. A man named Yaquob Maher has been accused for leading these attacks. He is an ex-convict and landowner who lives near the villages that were attacked.
Maher's latest assult included setting off hand grenades inside of the church, stealing materials that were of value, and desrtroying Bibles and hymbooks. In doing this, they sat fire to two houses only because they wanted the christian villagers off their land.
In 1988, many christian and muslim villagers where forced to relocate due to a flood. By the year 2000, the villagers built a chapel with their own funds in order to have a place of worship. Maher filed a court petition in order to put a stop to the building of the church by using forged land ownership documents. He was later caught and spent 6 months in jail, but even after his release, he still threatend the villagers.
On the morning of August the 7th, many village men were working in the feilds when Maher and three accomplices rammed a tractor into the walls of the church. They were armed with machine guns and hatchets. After injuring many villagers, the men went into hiding.
When the villagers tried to file a complaint, the police station ignored them and told them to leave. Maher later filed a report that he was the one being threatend.
One final attack took place on August 11th, when a mob of 30 muslims led by Maher attacked Thaiki village, armed with hatchets and hand grenades. Many were critically injured, including women and children.
On August 13, a report was filed for the Anti-Terrorist Act, and the 30 muslims were arrested. Police ordered that the village should be protected for 24 hours until all suspects were arrested.
When I read this artical I was outraged by the brutallity and hatred of these muslim men. Why do people let the fact that someone is different bother them? We are all human even if we do not have the same morals and values.
Baker, Barbara G, Muslim Land-Grabbers in Pakistan Attack Christians,August 24, 2006 http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/141799.html
Maher's latest assult included setting off hand grenades inside of the church, stealing materials that were of value, and desrtroying Bibles and hymbooks. In doing this, they sat fire to two houses only because they wanted the christian villagers off their land.
In 1988, many christian and muslim villagers where forced to relocate due to a flood. By the year 2000, the villagers built a chapel with their own funds in order to have a place of worship. Maher filed a court petition in order to put a stop to the building of the church by using forged land ownership documents. He was later caught and spent 6 months in jail, but even after his release, he still threatend the villagers.
On the morning of August the 7th, many village men were working in the feilds when Maher and three accomplices rammed a tractor into the walls of the church. They were armed with machine guns and hatchets. After injuring many villagers, the men went into hiding.
When the villagers tried to file a complaint, the police station ignored them and told them to leave. Maher later filed a report that he was the one being threatend.
One final attack took place on August 11th, when a mob of 30 muslims led by Maher attacked Thaiki village, armed with hatchets and hand grenades. Many were critically injured, including women and children.
On August 13, a report was filed for the Anti-Terrorist Act, and the 30 muslims were arrested. Police ordered that the village should be protected for 24 hours until all suspects were arrested.
When I read this artical I was outraged by the brutallity and hatred of these muslim men. Why do people let the fact that someone is different bother them? We are all human even if we do not have the same morals and values.
Baker, Barbara G, Muslim Land-Grabbers in Pakistan Attack Christians,August 24, 2006 http://www.crosswalk.com/news/religiontoday/141799.html
Serbia police accused of killing American's
Alaina Dula
"Serbia police accused of killing American's"
Belgrade, Serbia Aug. 24
Three Americans of Albanian, Lli,Agron and Mehmet Bitichi, were killed in July 1999 by two former Serbian special unit police officers. The brothers lived New York before moving to Kosovov province to fight on the side of Albanian separatists vs. Serbia security forces 7 years ago. Charges were filed on the two policemen by The Serbian Prosecutors' Office for war crimes. In 1999 on file they committed crimes against prisoners of war reported by Belgrade's RTS radio-television on Thursday. After completing 15-days in jail for minor law violation, the two officers handed the brothers over to an unidentified group of policemen at Prokunplje in southern Serbia. The policemen took them to an abandoned dump were they killed them with firearms, the indictment said. This investigation is still under trial. Suspects are Vlastimir Djordjevic, a former Serbian deputy police minister & chief of public security, reports state. Prosecutors believe Djordjevic is hiding out in Moscow. My opinion on this case is that around the world in different areas they treat Americans wrong because of there jealous or dislike. Hopefully they will find the man who committed such a crime for no reason and make him suffer every single day of his life and also the two officers who handed them over should be place in prison for having a part in the crime.
Copyright 2006 by United Press International
http://www.dailyluxe.com
"Serbia police accused of killing American's"
Belgrade, Serbia Aug. 24
Three Americans of Albanian, Lli,Agron and Mehmet Bitichi, were killed in July 1999 by two former Serbian special unit police officers. The brothers lived New York before moving to Kosovov province to fight on the side of Albanian separatists vs. Serbia security forces 7 years ago. Charges were filed on the two policemen by The Serbian Prosecutors' Office for war crimes. In 1999 on file they committed crimes against prisoners of war reported by Belgrade's RTS radio-television on Thursday. After completing 15-days in jail for minor law violation, the two officers handed the brothers over to an unidentified group of policemen at Prokunplje in southern Serbia. The policemen took them to an abandoned dump were they killed them with firearms, the indictment said. This investigation is still under trial. Suspects are Vlastimir Djordjevic, a former Serbian deputy police minister & chief of public security, reports state. Prosecutors believe Djordjevic is hiding out in Moscow. My opinion on this case is that around the world in different areas they treat Americans wrong because of there jealous or dislike. Hopefully they will find the man who committed such a crime for no reason and make him suffer every single day of his life and also the two officers who handed them over should be place in prison for having a part in the crime.
Copyright 2006 by United Press International
http://www.dailyluxe.com
Muslims, Arabs Saw Pay Drop After 9/11
Caroline Ellison
Soc 202
August 24, 2006
Current Event: Religion and Ethnicity
Study: Muslims, Arabs Saw Pay Drop After 9/11
The article I read was about a study that found after 9/11 anti-Islamic and anti-Middle Eastern sentiment hasn’t just taken an emotional toll on Muslim and Arab men in different parts of the world, it has also put a dent in their pockets. After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Arab and Muslim men saw their wages and income drop by 10 percent. The greatest decrease occurred in places with higher rates of ethnic and religious based hate crimes.
Part of the reason why pay decreased is because these men, mostly from predominantly Islamic countries such as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Algeria, had fewer opportunities and were forced to find work in different industries that paid less than the jobs they used to be employed by before 9/11. The reduction in wages may be short-lived, since the most recent statistics show a “significant rebound” in earnings for Muslim and Arab men.
This article shows that ethnic and religious prejudice is a problem people around the world are dealing with daily. Although 9/11 was almost five years ago people are still taking out their anger on those from the Middle East. If people would become more accepting of Muslims and Arabs it would benefit us all.
Hussain, Rummana. "Study: Muslims, Arabs Saw Pay Drop After 9/11." Suntimes. 24 Aug. 2006. Digital Chicago Inc. 24 Aug. 2006 <http://www.suntimes.com>.
Soc 202
August 24, 2006
Current Event: Religion and Ethnicity
Study: Muslims, Arabs Saw Pay Drop After 9/11
The article I read was about a study that found after 9/11 anti-Islamic and anti-Middle Eastern sentiment hasn’t just taken an emotional toll on Muslim and Arab men in different parts of the world, it has also put a dent in their pockets. After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Arab and Muslim men saw their wages and income drop by 10 percent. The greatest decrease occurred in places with higher rates of ethnic and religious based hate crimes.
Part of the reason why pay decreased is because these men, mostly from predominantly Islamic countries such as Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Algeria, had fewer opportunities and were forced to find work in different industries that paid less than the jobs they used to be employed by before 9/11. The reduction in wages may be short-lived, since the most recent statistics show a “significant rebound” in earnings for Muslim and Arab men.
This article shows that ethnic and religious prejudice is a problem people around the world are dealing with daily. Although 9/11 was almost five years ago people are still taking out their anger on those from the Middle East. If people would become more accepting of Muslims and Arabs it would benefit us all.
Hussain, Rummana. "Study: Muslims, Arabs Saw Pay Drop After 9/11." Suntimes. 24 Aug. 2006. Digital Chicago Inc. 24 Aug. 2006 <http://www.suntimes.com>.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Philippines seeks help from US, Japan, Indonesia to clean up worst oil spill
Shannon Norwood
SOC 202 – Current Event Log #2
08/25/06
In the Philippine newspaper, Philippine Daily Inquirer, on August 20, 2006 the headline read, Philippines seeks help from US, Japan, Indonesia to clean up worst oil spill. (http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/printdoc) Off the Guimaras Island a tanker carrying 13,000 barrels of bunker fuel sank on August 11, 2006. It is estimated that 450,000 gallons is still trapped underwater. The tanker is still leaking oil and it is estimated that 100 to 200 liters an hour is leaking. The government has asked Indonesia, the US, and Japan to help them re-float the tanker. The Philippines do not have enough resources to handle the clean up of this disaster. This spill is the biggest in the country’s history. Three towns and at least twenty-two neighborhoods have been affected and it is estimated that at least 15 to 20 percent of the province’s population has been displaced. The article goes on to discuss who is responsible and liable for the disaster.
This spill is affecting the people who live close by; it is not safe for them to live with. The spill is causing the death of a lot of ocean life and fishermen can not fish in the area. Also tourism will be affected.
The first problem and the most important, I believe, is that the leak is still continuing. The problem is only going to worsen and affect more people and more ocean life until the leak can be stopped. I do not know if the US, Japan, or Indonesia is going to help, the article did not say. If they do then this oil spill problem of the Philippines is now taken on as a problem for the US, Japan, and Indonesia.
The article spent a lot of time discussing who was at fault for the oil spill. I believe that is not essential at this time. The company of the tanker has taken responsibility but the company needs tons of assistance to clean up the spill. I think more of the article should have proposed ways to stop the leak and clean up the oil and the article should have spent less time placing blame.
SOC 202 – Current Event Log #2
08/25/06
In the Philippine newspaper, Philippine Daily Inquirer, on August 20, 2006 the headline read, Philippines seeks help from US, Japan, Indonesia to clean up worst oil spill. (http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/printdoc) Off the Guimaras Island a tanker carrying 13,000 barrels of bunker fuel sank on August 11, 2006. It is estimated that 450,000 gallons is still trapped underwater. The tanker is still leaking oil and it is estimated that 100 to 200 liters an hour is leaking. The government has asked Indonesia, the US, and Japan to help them re-float the tanker. The Philippines do not have enough resources to handle the clean up of this disaster. This spill is the biggest in the country’s history. Three towns and at least twenty-two neighborhoods have been affected and it is estimated that at least 15 to 20 percent of the province’s population has been displaced. The article goes on to discuss who is responsible and liable for the disaster.
This spill is affecting the people who live close by; it is not safe for them to live with. The spill is causing the death of a lot of ocean life and fishermen can not fish in the area. Also tourism will be affected.
The first problem and the most important, I believe, is that the leak is still continuing. The problem is only going to worsen and affect more people and more ocean life until the leak can be stopped. I do not know if the US, Japan, or Indonesia is going to help, the article did not say. If they do then this oil spill problem of the Philippines is now taken on as a problem for the US, Japan, and Indonesia.
The article spent a lot of time discussing who was at fault for the oil spill. I believe that is not essential at this time. The company of the tanker has taken responsibility but the company needs tons of assistance to clean up the spill. I think more of the article should have proposed ways to stop the leak and clean up the oil and the article should have spent less time placing blame.
Venezuelan slums rife with crimes
Just imagine your life in a Venezuelan slum where you couldn't even where a pair of NIKE shoes. These were not a pair of Jordan's, not a pair of Iverson's, and not even a pair of D.Wade's that were stolen, but a pair of three day old Charles Barkley's. That is sad when you have to steal somebody's Charles Barkley's. That's not even the worst part of the story. The worst part is that the boy who had the Barkley's on was shot in the shin. That is messed up. How dare those thieves shoot him in his shin...now he can't even walk in the Barkley's if he had them. I don't understand what this world has come to these days. Why is it necessary to steal somebody's shoes? I have family members who have lived in the "slums" aka "projects" of Durham and I heard stores about how some of their friends who were also drug dealers and Wal-Mart thieves would take peoples shoes just because that was the ultimate "diss" to somebody. Could you see yourself walking down the street and a bunch of guys/girls come up to you and demand you to take off your brand new or even old shoes? What would you do? You would probably say no at first! Then, they pull out a gun. What would you do then? You would give them up if you smart. This article is very interesting because it's something you would expect in the "slums" or the "ghetto." If you were to ask someone in the bad parts of the inner cities of the U.S. if they had seen someone get their shoes taken from them, they would probably tell you yes. The article states the reason for the increasing crime in Venezuela because they are an oil exporting country awash in money and they are not using the money smartly. Instead of providing the law enforcement with new materials and new personnel, they are using the money for something else. At this time, they are going through an election between two people. The challenger is challenging the Venezuelan president by making his theme for election to be against crime and for change and the health and safety of the people. If the people are smart, they should opt for a new president and a new way of living because something has to give if they want to live.Headline: Venezuelan slums rife with crimes; Corruption, killings fuel public angerAuthor: Jens Erik Gould, THE WASHINGTON TIMESCopyright 2006 News World Communications, Inc. The Washington Timeslexisnexis
Urbanization in China
Hanson, Matthew
Soc 202
24 August 2006
Current Events Article (2)
Urbanization
This article is about how urbanization is helping China. Liu Yong stated, “China's urbanization process in the coming years will produce much consumption demand and greatly drive up the nation's economy.” It is proven that urbanization has a positive correlation with any country’s economic growth. Though China’s population sits right around 1.2 billion, 70 percent of that lives in the rural areas and countryside. Rural areas are not very sufficient when it comes to supporting such a large population. On the other hand, expanding urban areas can provide the jobs for rural laborers who cannot find work in their home provinces. It should be known that China’s urbanization rate (ratio of urban population to the entire population) is very low. I feel that urbanization is definitely a good thing for any country, but only up to a certain point. Too much urbanization causes over population, and especially waste and trash problems. Recently, I’ve read elsewhere that due to the on going urbanization, there has been huge problems as far as trash and dumps filling up. China is taking up more and more land it is growing out of hand. I think that businesses should move away from the cities. I believe by doing this, people would follow and relieve all the congestion in the cities.
- http://us.tom.com/english/2285.htm, China Internet Information Center, 2002
Soc 202
24 August 2006
Current Events Article (2)
Urbanization
This article is about how urbanization is helping China. Liu Yong stated, “China's urbanization process in the coming years will produce much consumption demand and greatly drive up the nation's economy.” It is proven that urbanization has a positive correlation with any country’s economic growth. Though China’s population sits right around 1.2 billion, 70 percent of that lives in the rural areas and countryside. Rural areas are not very sufficient when it comes to supporting such a large population. On the other hand, expanding urban areas can provide the jobs for rural laborers who cannot find work in their home provinces. It should be known that China’s urbanization rate (ratio of urban population to the entire population) is very low. I feel that urbanization is definitely a good thing for any country, but only up to a certain point. Too much urbanization causes over population, and especially waste and trash problems. Recently, I’ve read elsewhere that due to the on going urbanization, there has been huge problems as far as trash and dumps filling up. China is taking up more and more land it is growing out of hand. I think that businesses should move away from the cities. I believe by doing this, people would follow and relieve all the congestion in the cities.
- http://us.tom.com/english/2285.htm, China Internet Information Center, 2002
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Scientist Call for Water Conservation
Current Event Log: Jenelle Davis
August 22, 2006
SOC 202/ Fall 2006
“Scientist Call for Water Conservation”
This article basically talks about the how the way water has been managed for the past fifty years is not going to be acceptable and efficient in the future. The article goes into the fact that one-third of the world’s population faces a water shortage. In a meeting with over 700 scientists from over 140 countries this issue was discuss saying that “radical changes” need to be made with those institutes and organizations in charge of managing the Earth’s water supply. No solution was determined at the meeting but with the issue on the table, possible solutions should be soon to follow.
My reaction to this is that there have been talks about water conservation and water management for years, but all of a sudden it’s become serious matter. In all seriousness water conservative is an issue that faces the whole world. There are many places on this Earth that don’t get water at all let alone clean water. It’s a good thing that scientist can come together from all around the world to and talk about such an important issue. Drinkable water is like oil; it is very precious and needs to be managed wisely. Plus why not develop water management systems that can help the environment instead of destroying it. It’s important that the world starts to become more efficient in the way we live because if we continue down the path that we are on know there will be no hope for those that follow us.
Source:
The Associated Press, "Scientist Call for Water Conservation." Environmental News Network. 22, August 2006. 22 Aug 2006 <http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=11102>.
August 22, 2006
SOC 202/ Fall 2006
“Scientist Call for Water Conservation”
This article basically talks about the how the way water has been managed for the past fifty years is not going to be acceptable and efficient in the future. The article goes into the fact that one-third of the world’s population faces a water shortage. In a meeting with over 700 scientists from over 140 countries this issue was discuss saying that “radical changes” need to be made with those institutes and organizations in charge of managing the Earth’s water supply. No solution was determined at the meeting but with the issue on the table, possible solutions should be soon to follow.
My reaction to this is that there have been talks about water conservation and water management for years, but all of a sudden it’s become serious matter. In all seriousness water conservative is an issue that faces the whole world. There are many places on this Earth that don’t get water at all let alone clean water. It’s a good thing that scientist can come together from all around the world to and talk about such an important issue. Drinkable water is like oil; it is very precious and needs to be managed wisely. Plus why not develop water management systems that can help the environment instead of destroying it. It’s important that the world starts to become more efficient in the way we live because if we continue down the path that we are on know there will be no hope for those that follow us.
Source:
The Associated Press, "Scientist Call for Water Conservation." Environmental News Network. 22, August 2006. 22 Aug 2006 <http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=11102>.
World wide gender gap
One of the most common inequalities around the world has to be the inequalities between women and men. Some of the disadvantages include women making up 2/3 of the adult illiterate population. This is due to the lack of educational programs around the world for women who live in under developed countiries. Not only are women among the the most illiterate globally but their also among the poorest. According to Newsweek 70% of the poorest people in the world are women.
The biggest disadvantage that women globally are experiencign right now is the lack of receiving quality health care. Due to the skills women lack globally, they end up having sex to help pay for food,clothes, and for some educational resources. As a result women make up the majority of the AIDS population.
Another huge social inequality that women are facing now, is they don't have a say on how many kids they want to have. For instances, in some global societies women are married off at young ages. Therefore, due to their age and their lack of knowlede many women in countries around the world think it is okay to not have protective sex. Matter of fact in " Zamnia only 11% of the women knew they had a choice to have protective sex with husbands". However women in these nations don't stand up to their husbands because they know that if they do it will increase's their chances of being a victim of domestic violence. Due to things such as this there are 80 million unintended pregancies each year. One-fifth of these pregancies were aborted unsafely, also these abortions causesd 13% of the annual child-labor deaths. The United States isn't helping with the prevention of unwanted child births, actually the United States witheld $34 million dollars from the world's largest family planning services. As a result many women across the world lack the resources to prevent malaria and tuberculosis.
This social inequality isn't very shocking to me, women inequality has always exsisted, it can even be dated back to the bibical times. Women have always been displayed as inferior to men. The only solution I see for this reoccuring problem is providing more educational resources to women across the world so that they can be more aware of this new global problem.
Source: Marton, Kati (2006). A World Wide Gender Gap. Retrieved August 24, 2006, from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4872123/site/newsweek/#storyContinued.
The biggest disadvantage that women globally are experiencign right now is the lack of receiving quality health care. Due to the skills women lack globally, they end up having sex to help pay for food,clothes, and for some educational resources. As a result women make up the majority of the AIDS population.
Another huge social inequality that women are facing now, is they don't have a say on how many kids they want to have. For instances, in some global societies women are married off at young ages. Therefore, due to their age and their lack of knowlede many women in countries around the world think it is okay to not have protective sex. Matter of fact in " Zamnia only 11% of the women knew they had a choice to have protective sex with husbands". However women in these nations don't stand up to their husbands because they know that if they do it will increase's their chances of being a victim of domestic violence. Due to things such as this there are 80 million unintended pregancies each year. One-fifth of these pregancies were aborted unsafely, also these abortions causesd 13% of the annual child-labor deaths. The United States isn't helping with the prevention of unwanted child births, actually the United States witheld $34 million dollars from the world's largest family planning services. As a result many women across the world lack the resources to prevent malaria and tuberculosis.
This social inequality isn't very shocking to me, women inequality has always exsisted, it can even be dated back to the bibical times. Women have always been displayed as inferior to men. The only solution I see for this reoccuring problem is providing more educational resources to women across the world so that they can be more aware of this new global problem.
Source: Marton, Kati (2006). A World Wide Gender Gap. Retrieved August 24, 2006, from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4872123/site/newsweek/#storyContinued.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Global Innovation
Leigh Riordon
August 22, 2006
By: David Alan Grier
Many people as or question how science and technology can be international. David Alan Grier had some of these same questions when he became involved with George Washington’s Center for International Science and Technology Affairs four years ago. In this center he learned that the researchers in the center are dealing with “the most fundamental problem of modern life.” This problem consists of how best to use the knowledge that researchers and scientists have about our physical and or materialistic world and the newest technologies to provide support for our economies, countries, and for our people.
The GW’s center for International Science and Technology began running in 1968. The center contains eight faculty members, thirty-five graduate students, many graduate research assistants, and one pair of staff members. In 1968, their first attempt was to place a man on the moon, while their second goal was to have a future in space flight. John Logsdon, who within two years of his arrival at GW, had become the space expert. In that second year of being there in 1972, he made his first television appearance. People can easily remember this date, because this was the year of the Apollo flights. The Space Policy Institute was created in 1987 by Logsdon as well.
The center hosts post-doctoral scholars every year, who come from all over the world from government institutes and universities in Europe, Asia, and North America. The center also works with Korea, who has research agreements with GW containing information about a journal devoted to the history of computing and digital communication that he edits. His assistant editor is in Norwich, England, production manager in Long Beach, California, and a main department editor in Osaka, Japan.
Once a month, every month, on the second Wednesday, the center sponsors a technology and innovation seminar, in which 600 people are invited. In the most recent seminar, the newest research professor, Carolyn Wagner spoke. She traveled to be there from the Netherlands.
With all of these seminars and through complicated research, the faculty of the center is trying to grasp the answer on how best to guide science and technology through the 21st century. I would have never of thought that “international science and technology” would be a course that was offered at different universities, although now many. I do though understand that today’s advances in science and technology cannot be handled by one country. I believe that in the 21st century you need to work together to accomplish anything!
http://www.gwu.edu/~magazine/2005_research_fall/features/feat_global.htm
August 22, 2006
By: David Alan Grier
Many people as or question how science and technology can be international. David Alan Grier had some of these same questions when he became involved with George Washington’s Center for International Science and Technology Affairs four years ago. In this center he learned that the researchers in the center are dealing with “the most fundamental problem of modern life.” This problem consists of how best to use the knowledge that researchers and scientists have about our physical and or materialistic world and the newest technologies to provide support for our economies, countries, and for our people.
The GW’s center for International Science and Technology began running in 1968. The center contains eight faculty members, thirty-five graduate students, many graduate research assistants, and one pair of staff members. In 1968, their first attempt was to place a man on the moon, while their second goal was to have a future in space flight. John Logsdon, who within two years of his arrival at GW, had become the space expert. In that second year of being there in 1972, he made his first television appearance. People can easily remember this date, because this was the year of the Apollo flights. The Space Policy Institute was created in 1987 by Logsdon as well.
The center hosts post-doctoral scholars every year, who come from all over the world from government institutes and universities in Europe, Asia, and North America. The center also works with Korea, who has research agreements with GW containing information about a journal devoted to the history of computing and digital communication that he edits. His assistant editor is in Norwich, England, production manager in Long Beach, California, and a main department editor in Osaka, Japan.
Once a month, every month, on the second Wednesday, the center sponsors a technology and innovation seminar, in which 600 people are invited. In the most recent seminar, the newest research professor, Carolyn Wagner spoke. She traveled to be there from the Netherlands.
With all of these seminars and through complicated research, the faculty of the center is trying to grasp the answer on how best to guide science and technology through the 21st century. I would have never of thought that “international science and technology” would be a course that was offered at different universities, although now many. I do though understand that today’s advances in science and technology cannot be handled by one country. I believe that in the 21st century you need to work together to accomplish anything!
http://www.gwu.edu/~magazine/2005_research_fall/features/feat_global.htm
Monday, August 21, 2006
Time for India to Reduce inequality
Every year the income inequalities gap between the rich and the poor gets bigger India. Between the years 2000-2005 the Poverty Redution Stratedy paper showed that the upper 40% gained while the lower 60% lost. This survey also showed that rural areas income inequality didn't really change over the past five years, however the income inequality gap in urban areas increased over the years.
They believe whatever is causing this gap should be a concern to all, it's also strange how a country prosper in economics in a whole, however individuals within such countries suffer dramatically. They also believe such inequalities could be dangerous because the poor is being limited on certain resources due to thier government. Such things could lead to a social collapse, if things such as this is ignored.Such countries are now in the process of solving this problem. They are adding more social programs such as job fairs, and higher educational programs.
I think it is sad such income inequalities still exsit in the world we live in today. It like this will seems like their is unlimited resources, and such gaps shouldn't exsit due to that. I believe problems like this will never be solved unless we as a world stop being self-centered and unite together some way to make the standard of living better for some people.
Latoya Alexander
Source: Bardhan, Pranab. (2006) Time for India to Reduce inequality. Retrived August 17, 2006 http://web.lexis-nexis.com/universe/document?_m=73936fde7284dcf21b371fa9a4cda6fb&_docnum=6&wchp=dGLbVzz-zSkVb&_md5=4da6fbab6a9d6529c1de5b706781b61f.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
China’s rapid urbanization
Hanson, Matthew
Soc 202
17 August 2006
Current Event Log
Week 1
This article is something I personally found very shocking. It is mainly talking about how China’s rapid urbanization is causing garbage to pile up all over the county. According to China National, “more than 400 out of the 688 cities in China are now awash with garbage.” Apparently more than 7,000 garbage dumps larger than 50 square meters in the suburbs of the four major cities of Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Chongqing. When I read all of this, I was appalled at all the staggering numbers. I am guessing that due to all the continuing urbanization, the garbage that’s piling up will soon become a major health risk for these major cities and their surrounding areas. These huge dumps harbor great places for disease and growing bacteria. Because of “insufficient technology,” waste reduction has been a big issue. I believe this is also affecting the country’s economic growth as well. The trash is starting to take up more and more land that was previously used for farming and agriculture. As far as any solutions, I could not think of any myself. Maybe if somehow they could control the population that lives in the city itself, they could cut down on the overall trash and waste accumulation. Other than that, I see no real probable solution. I’m not sure if they have a recycling program implemented, but if not, it would definitely be something to consider. Some cities have labeled dustbins in different categories to encourage residents to separate garbage, but it has been slow to catch on.
Soc 202
17 August 2006
Current Event Log
Week 1
This article is something I personally found very shocking. It is mainly talking about how China’s rapid urbanization is causing garbage to pile up all over the county. According to China National, “more than 400 out of the 688 cities in China are now awash with garbage.” Apparently more than 7,000 garbage dumps larger than 50 square meters in the suburbs of the four major cities of Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, and Chongqing. When I read all of this, I was appalled at all the staggering numbers. I am guessing that due to all the continuing urbanization, the garbage that’s piling up will soon become a major health risk for these major cities and their surrounding areas. These huge dumps harbor great places for disease and growing bacteria. Because of “insufficient technology,” waste reduction has been a big issue. I believe this is also affecting the country’s economic growth as well. The trash is starting to take up more and more land that was previously used for farming and agriculture. As far as any solutions, I could not think of any myself. Maybe if somehow they could control the population that lives in the city itself, they could cut down on the overall trash and waste accumulation. Other than that, I see no real probable solution. I’m not sure if they have a recycling program implemented, but if not, it would definitely be something to consider. Some cities have labeled dustbins in different categories to encourage residents to separate garbage, but it has been slow to catch on.
Counterfeit Cars
How many people know that car products can be counterfeited? Now, how many people think that their car might have counterfeited car products in it? You might have more than one. I didn't know that people could counterfeit car products. I've only heard of the usual items like counterfeit money and counterfeit checks. I don't know if you would include black market movies on DVDs and black market CDs. I think you would because they are all attempting to make something fake seem like the real name brand item. Let's say that you have a Ford F150 and the cost to get a Ford engine is way too expensive than you planned it would be, but you found someone who can get you an engine that is not of Ford quality but you can still get the brand name on the engine, that would be purchasing counterfeit car products which is illegal. Who wants a real Ford engine when you can get a different engine that is probably cheaper but still have the Ford brand name on the engine to show off to the friends? Why would someone even buy a counterfeit car product? You know you can't take it back to a dealer and get it worked on without them finding out you have a counterfeit engine. The thing about buying counterfeit products is that affects automobile corporations, automobile dealers, and automobile parts sellers all over the world.
In China, criminals have found a cheap way to counterfeit US car products and components and sell them to buyers in China. Not only does this illegal act destroy the reputation of US cars but it also is a risk for car buyers. They have no idea of what they are getting into. Buying a car with faulty car parts is like buying a casket for you. It's a deathtrap. The items that are being counterfeited are spark plugs, shock absorbers, oil filters and fuel filers, fuel pumps, brake components (including pads and linings), suspension and steering components, body panels, bearings, wind shields, tires, headlights, taillights, engine mounts and other engine parts. It's a shame for how some people have to make a living but they have to survive even if it is illegal. There have been many arrests of people in the US who are trafficking these counterfeit products to the US. American authorities have taken it into their hands to penalize these buyers, sellers, and producers of counterfeit car products. The US automobile industry is getting a bad name in China for faulty car products that were thought to be the real high quality product they were purchasing.
Copyright 2006 Congressional Quarterly, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
CQ Congressional Testimony July 20, 2006 Thursday
Headline: Chinese Barriers to Trade
Statement of Brian Duggan Director, Trade and Commercial Policy Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association
Committee on House Small Business Subcommittee on Rural Enterprise, Agriculture and Technology
Received article from lexisnexis
In China, criminals have found a cheap way to counterfeit US car products and components and sell them to buyers in China. Not only does this illegal act destroy the reputation of US cars but it also is a risk for car buyers. They have no idea of what they are getting into. Buying a car with faulty car parts is like buying a casket for you. It's a deathtrap. The items that are being counterfeited are spark plugs, shock absorbers, oil filters and fuel filers, fuel pumps, brake components (including pads and linings), suspension and steering components, body panels, bearings, wind shields, tires, headlights, taillights, engine mounts and other engine parts. It's a shame for how some people have to make a living but they have to survive even if it is illegal. There have been many arrests of people in the US who are trafficking these counterfeit products to the US. American authorities have taken it into their hands to penalize these buyers, sellers, and producers of counterfeit car products. The US automobile industry is getting a bad name in China for faulty car products that were thought to be the real high quality product they were purchasing.
Copyright 2006 Congressional Quarterly, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
CQ Congressional Testimony July 20, 2006 Thursday
Headline: Chinese Barriers to Trade
Statement of Brian Duggan Director, Trade and Commercial Policy Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association
Committee on House Small Business Subcommittee on Rural Enterprise, Agriculture and Technology
Received article from lexisnexis
Current Events Blogs
Current Events Blogs
http://education-current-events.blogspot.com/ HBCU recruit Hispanics
http://gspcurrentevents.blogspot.com/ wind power
http://currenteventslog.blogspot.com/ Inflation & Teacher Salaries
http://genderandfamily.blogspot.com/ domestic abuse http://toloosenagordianknot.blogspot.com/ global warming
http://soc202.blogspot.com/ teacher quality
http://sociology202blog.blogspot.com/ Israeli Militarism http://www.sociologycurrentevents.blogspot.com/ Opium Cultivation in Afghanistan
http://linzebeth.livejournal.com/ conflict in Sri Lanka
http://tracy-globalurbanization.blogspot.com/ Urbanization in China
http://www.lnrussel.blogspot.com/ lack of nursing teachers
http://cdgentil.livejournal.com/ Profiling
http://socjarrid.blogspot.com/ Social Inequalities
http://gspcurrentevents.blogspot.com/ Wind Power
http://soc202eventlog.blogspot.com/ murder of homeless
http://urbanization5.blogspot.com/ Rwanda
http://education-current-events.blogspot.com/ HBCU recruit Hispanics
http://gspcurrentevents.blogspot.com/ wind power
http://currenteventslog.blogspot.com/ Inflation & Teacher Salaries
http://genderandfamily.blogspot.com/ domestic abuse http://toloosenagordianknot.blogspot.com/ global warming
http://soc202.blogspot.com/ teacher quality
http://sociology202blog.blogspot.com/ Israeli Militarism http://www.sociologycurrentevents.blogspot.com/ Opium Cultivation in Afghanistan
http://linzebeth.livejournal.com/ conflict in Sri Lanka
http://tracy-globalurbanization.blogspot.com/ Urbanization in China
http://www.lnrussel.blogspot.com/ lack of nursing teachers
http://cdgentil.livejournal.com/ Profiling
http://socjarrid.blogspot.com/ Social Inequalities
http://gspcurrentevents.blogspot.com/ Wind Power
http://soc202eventlog.blogspot.com/ murder of homeless
http://urbanization5.blogspot.com/ Rwanda
Urbanization in China
Urbanization can cause a nation to change in a beneficial or disastrous way. Urbanization is defined as the social process whereby cities grow and societies become more urban (Wordnet 2.0, 2003 Princeton University). Urbanization usually begins to happen when people decide that they want to move from the small rural towns to the much larger urban cities for many different reasons such as jobs, schools, or more active social lives.
Most of the time in most places, urbanization can be concluded as a tragedy. But, China has made their urbanization problem into a new idea. The Chinese government has estimated that almost 34% of citizens will move to the larger urban areas in the next ten years. From reading this article, the Chinese are obviously fearing a shortage in their already struggling environment. China is already suffering with pollution and it will gradually worsen over the next upcoming years due to urbanization. China, seeing what is to come, decided to use their worsening situation for the better. They are now using a 10-story steel building to their advantage in Beijing which is the first official “green building” . Yang Guoxiang quotes “This building will be considered standard practice in China in ten years”. He explains how the building uses 70% less energy and 60% less water the usual building. It uses many materials that are considerate of the environment and energy levels such as insulating windows, solar collectors located on the roof, and the “new” air conditioning system that uses ice blocks so air conditioning won’t have to be used (http://www.theworld.org/worldfeature/chinaenv/04.shtml).
This building does have many people nervous because to build more of these green buildings, their homes will have to be destroyed even though the government has offered free apartments to these families. But regardless of what people say, China plans on building 6 more green buildings around China. The government are even making new buildings that are not considered green buildings to use half the energy being used. Many believe these green buildings are wonderful ideas that have come out of what could have been hazardous.
In my opinion, even though the green buildings will cause many people to lose their home, they are being offered somewhere else to live instead of being kicked out on the street. I understand their homes are extremely important, but homes will always be available, but you can’t build a new environment. I believe these green buildings are marvelous ideas that should go all around the world where urbanization may have not become a problem yet. Also the idea of the government thinking about the environment and urbanization before it becomes a disaster is excellent. The people in China should be grateful for the leaders they have. The green building is an awesome idea that the people of China should take advantage of.
Gabrielle C. Poe
Most of the time in most places, urbanization can be concluded as a tragedy. But, China has made their urbanization problem into a new idea. The Chinese government has estimated that almost 34% of citizens will move to the larger urban areas in the next ten years. From reading this article, the Chinese are obviously fearing a shortage in their already struggling environment. China is already suffering with pollution and it will gradually worsen over the next upcoming years due to urbanization. China, seeing what is to come, decided to use their worsening situation for the better. They are now using a 10-story steel building to their advantage in Beijing which is the first official “green building” . Yang Guoxiang quotes “This building will be considered standard practice in China in ten years”. He explains how the building uses 70% less energy and 60% less water the usual building. It uses many materials that are considerate of the environment and energy levels such as insulating windows, solar collectors located on the roof, and the “new” air conditioning system that uses ice blocks so air conditioning won’t have to be used (http://www.theworld.org/worldfeature/chinaenv/04.shtml).
This building does have many people nervous because to build more of these green buildings, their homes will have to be destroyed even though the government has offered free apartments to these families. But regardless of what people say, China plans on building 6 more green buildings around China. The government are even making new buildings that are not considered green buildings to use half the energy being used. Many believe these green buildings are wonderful ideas that have come out of what could have been hazardous.
In my opinion, even though the green buildings will cause many people to lose their home, they are being offered somewhere else to live instead of being kicked out on the street. I understand their homes are extremely important, but homes will always be available, but you can’t build a new environment. I believe these green buildings are marvelous ideas that should go all around the world where urbanization may have not become a problem yet. Also the idea of the government thinking about the environment and urbanization before it becomes a disaster is excellent. The people in China should be grateful for the leaders they have. The green building is an awesome idea that the people of China should take advantage of.
Gabrielle C. Poe
United Church Turns to Web in its Biggest Effort to Reach Out to Non-Churchgoers
Caroline Ellison
August 17,2006
Soc 202-02
Current Event: Religion and Ethnicity
United Church Turns to Web in its Biggest Effort to Reach Out to Non-Churchgoers
A recent study in Canada called, “Who’s Religious,” shows that 40 percent of 30-to-45-year-olds don't attend church or other religious institutions. However, statistics do show that 50 percent participate in personal religious activities such as praying at least once a month. In hopes of filling empty pews, the United Church of Canada is using the Internet to reach out to people.
A research team has spent the past year developing a website intended to persuade people to make the church their spiritual home. The church plans to spend close to 9 million dollars towards this effort which will include ads in national magazines and training programs to help different churches develop better welcoming skills. The church wants to engage in conversation with middle age people. They feel that this age group shares many of the same values as the United Church and are interested in having a spiritual life.
To get the conversation going, the church hired a group to conduct informal online surveys. The participants were asked questions like, why don’t you attend church, what do you not like about organized religion, and what are you searching for. The surveys found that the majority of people feel that churches tend to be too judgmental and close minded. On the other hand they seemed happy when it came to talking about institutional religion.
The church wants to offer a contemporary congregation that is more welcoming, and accepting of those with different sexual and relationship preferences. They hope that their congregation which challenges traditional teachings will appeal to more people. Shackleton, Eric. "United Church Turns to Web in Its Biggest Effort to Reach Out to Non-Churchgoers." World Wide Religious News. 14 Aug. 2006. 17 Aug. 2006.
August 17,2006
Soc 202-02
Current Event: Religion and Ethnicity
United Church Turns to Web in its Biggest Effort to Reach Out to Non-Churchgoers
A recent study in Canada called, “Who’s Religious,” shows that 40 percent of 30-to-45-year-olds don't attend church or other religious institutions. However, statistics do show that 50 percent participate in personal religious activities such as praying at least once a month. In hopes of filling empty pews, the United Church of Canada is using the Internet to reach out to people.
A research team has spent the past year developing a website intended to persuade people to make the church their spiritual home. The church plans to spend close to 9 million dollars towards this effort which will include ads in national magazines and training programs to help different churches develop better welcoming skills. The church wants to engage in conversation with middle age people. They feel that this age group shares many of the same values as the United Church and are interested in having a spiritual life.
To get the conversation going, the church hired a group to conduct informal online surveys. The participants were asked questions like, why don’t you attend church, what do you not like about organized religion, and what are you searching for. The surveys found that the majority of people feel that churches tend to be too judgmental and close minded. On the other hand they seemed happy when it came to talking about institutional religion.
The church wants to offer a contemporary congregation that is more welcoming, and accepting of those with different sexual and relationship preferences. They hope that their congregation which challenges traditional teachings will appeal to more people. Shackleton, Eric. "United Church Turns to Web in Its Biggest Effort to Reach Out to Non-Churchgoers." World Wide Religious News. 14 Aug. 2006. 17 Aug. 2006
Ex-CIA Employee Guilty in Assault of Afghan
Gema K. Gonzalez
Current Event Log #1
08-17-06
According to an article titled ?Ex-C.I.A. Employee Guilty in Assault of Afghan,? by The New York Times, a North Carolina court tried and convicted David A. Passaro of beating and abusing an Afghan man. Further on, the article points out that Human Rights Watch and other human rights advocate were paying close attention at the charges being brought. This has been one of many critics that the Justice Department has been under since the ?War on Terror? and the establishment of Democracy in the Middle East. According to the article, Mr. Passaro hit and abused Abdul Wali, a local farmer, until he went unconscious. Naturally, Mr. Passaro?s lawyers tried to defend him, but in the end this has been the only case where an official has been convicted from the prisoner abuse allegations.
This article has significance in terms of human rights and prisoner rights. This has been a hot topic lately, especially with the allegations and debate of Guantanamo Bay. Of course, more investigation is needed and it seems like the whole story is never fully printed or censored. It is also interesting to point out that considering all the prisoner abuse allegations going on in the Middle East and CIA leaks that have been out, only one case has been resolved. Human Rights advocates are all over the troops and officials in Washington for what is or is not happening in prison camps, but it seems to always be released piece by piece.
Source: "Ex-CIA Employee Guilty in Assault of Afghan." The New York Times. 2006/08/17.
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Current Event Log #1
08-17-06
According to an article titled ?Ex-C.I.A. Employee Guilty in Assault of Afghan,? by The New York Times, a North Carolina court tried and convicted David A. Passaro of beating and abusing an Afghan man. Further on, the article points out that Human Rights Watch and other human rights advocate were paying close attention at the charges being brought. This has been one of many critics that the Justice Department has been under since the ?War on Terror? and the establishment of Democracy in the Middle East. According to the article, Mr. Passaro hit and abused Abdul Wali, a local farmer, until he went unconscious. Naturally, Mr. Passaro?s lawyers tried to defend him, but in the end this has been the only case where an official has been convicted from the prisoner abuse allegations.
This article has significance in terms of human rights and prisoner rights. This has been a hot topic lately, especially with the allegations and debate of Guantanamo Bay. Of course, more investigation is needed and it seems like the whole story is never fully printed or censored. It is also interesting to point out that considering all the prisoner abuse allegations going on in the Middle East and CIA leaks that have been out, only one case has been resolved. Human Rights advocates are all over the troops and officials in Washington for what is or is not happening in prison camps, but it seems to always be released piece by piece.
Source: "Ex-CIA Employee Guilty in Assault of Afghan." The New York Times. 2006/08/17.
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Immigration
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,208710,00.html?sPage=fnc.specialsections/immigration
On Wednesday, August 16, 2006, Fox News reported that a Democratic advertisement in Washington infuriated many Hispanics by comparing Latino immigrants to terrorists. Many famous faces were on the ad, including the picture of Usama Bin Laden, President Kim Jong II of North Korea, and Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Many government workers and leaders are asking the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee to pull the ad off the internet and television, including Houston City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado and Lisa Navarette, a spokeswoman for the National Council of La Raza.
In this article was a description of the article, which could be effective in changing his or her views on political parties. If I were Hispanic, I would probably be offended by the ad's description, with many terrorists (which resemble Hispanics) jumping over a metal fence, and a phrase saying, "millions more illegal immigrants". I believe the DSCC should have been more selective with the people in this commercial. It is understandable that the Democratic Party believes that massive immigration is the cause for our terrorism. It seems that almost anyone can get away with escaping to the United states illegally. I am strongly against illegal immigration, but the DSCC should have used statistics and interviews in its commercial, such as a poll taken by thousands of Americans, asking their opinion on immigration. However, the commercial was aired to encourage voters to believe that the White House Administration and Republican Senators are responsible for the laws supporting the current illegal immigrants.
Lorraine Halker
On Wednesday, August 16, 2006, Fox News reported that a Democratic advertisement in Washington infuriated many Hispanics by comparing Latino immigrants to terrorists. Many famous faces were on the ad, including the picture of Usama Bin Laden, President Kim Jong II of North Korea, and Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Many government workers and leaders are asking the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee to pull the ad off the internet and television, including Houston City Councilwoman Carol Alvarado and Lisa Navarette, a spokeswoman for the National Council of La Raza.
In this article was a description of the article, which could be effective in changing his or her views on political parties. If I were Hispanic, I would probably be offended by the ad's description, with many terrorists (which resemble Hispanics) jumping over a metal fence, and a phrase saying, "millions more illegal immigrants". I believe the DSCC should have been more selective with the people in this commercial. It is understandable that the Democratic Party believes that massive immigration is the cause for our terrorism. It seems that almost anyone can get away with escaping to the United states illegally. I am strongly against illegal immigration, but the DSCC should have used statistics and interviews in its commercial, such as a poll taken by thousands of Americans, asking their opinion on immigration. However, the commercial was aired to encourage voters to believe that the White House Administration and Republican Senators are responsible for the laws supporting the current illegal immigrants.
Lorraine Halker
United Nations Failure to Control Illegal Drugs
Caitlin Walter
August 17, 2006
Sociology 202
Current Event #1
United Nations Failure to Control Illegal Drugs
Drug use is not only a problem in the United States. It is a problem all over the world. And it is places all over the world that are supplying the growing demand for these substances – not just one place.
The UN has sought to encourage farmers of illegal substances in numerous countries to substitute their illegal crops for legal ones. It is not going well. Focuses have been made in Asia and Latin America, particularly concerning the drugs opium and the coca plant which is used to make cocaine and crack. Afghanistan was the source of 87% of the global production of opium in 2005 and almost all of the heroin that got into Europe’s hands. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) also made reports that there was an increase in production of heroin in some African countries, such as Kenya, Mauritius, and Tanzania. Drug abuse by injection is pushing the HIV/AIDS infection rate up and up, especially in India and Nepal. Central America is particularly high in its vulnerability for transporting illegal drugs due to many social problems such as poverty, unemployment, and more.
I can’t help but think that a great majority of the crime in our world, and especially in our country, is due to the continuous rising use of drugs. My father lives in Charlotte and I hear practically everyday on the news about some place there getting robbed, someone getting shot, or a drive-by shooting happening. I think the usage of drugs is behind a lot of it. Maybe a drug deal went bad, so the person who didn’t pay up was shot. People are so strung out on things like crack, they will do practically anything to get money for it…like rob a bank or a convenience store. I even knew someone who had an uncle who had a crack problem and he stole from his family and sold their things to pawn shops so he could have the money to buy crack. How crazy is that? And you tend to see a lot of it in poor areas. As I stated above in my recap of the article, they said that parts of Central America were especially vulnerable to drug trafficking because of their poor conditions. People in those areas don’t have great paying jobs (if a job at all), so it’s probably hard for them to make ends meet. Then they get so stressed out, they look for an escape and unfortunately, a lot of times that’s a drug. Then they get caught up in that cycle of the addiction and the need to “get away” and it keeps them in that condition they’re living in. They blow money on cocaine or crack instead of paying their bills and then they get behind even more. Some of them get caught up in selling as well as using. It’s just a vicious cycle. Then to make things worse, kids are brought up around that and are influenced into thinking that it’s ok or acceptable. And when people and youth as well need money to get their fix, they resort to crime and violence.
"Programs to Replace Drug Crops Not Effective Enough: UN Report." Xinhua General News Service. 1 Mar. 2006. Xinhua News Agency. 17 Aug. 2006.
August 17, 2006
Sociology 202
Current Event #1
United Nations Failure to Control Illegal Drugs
Drug use is not only a problem in the United States. It is a problem all over the world. And it is places all over the world that are supplying the growing demand for these substances – not just one place.
The UN has sought to encourage farmers of illegal substances in numerous countries to substitute their illegal crops for legal ones. It is not going well. Focuses have been made in Asia and Latin America, particularly concerning the drugs opium and the coca plant which is used to make cocaine and crack. Afghanistan was the source of 87% of the global production of opium in 2005 and almost all of the heroin that got into Europe’s hands. The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) also made reports that there was an increase in production of heroin in some African countries, such as Kenya, Mauritius, and Tanzania. Drug abuse by injection is pushing the HIV/AIDS infection rate up and up, especially in India and Nepal. Central America is particularly high in its vulnerability for transporting illegal drugs due to many social problems such as poverty, unemployment, and more.
I can’t help but think that a great majority of the crime in our world, and especially in our country, is due to the continuous rising use of drugs. My father lives in Charlotte and I hear practically everyday on the news about some place there getting robbed, someone getting shot, or a drive-by shooting happening. I think the usage of drugs is behind a lot of it. Maybe a drug deal went bad, so the person who didn’t pay up was shot. People are so strung out on things like crack, they will do practically anything to get money for it…like rob a bank or a convenience store. I even knew someone who had an uncle who had a crack problem and he stole from his family and sold their things to pawn shops so he could have the money to buy crack. How crazy is that? And you tend to see a lot of it in poor areas. As I stated above in my recap of the article, they said that parts of Central America were especially vulnerable to drug trafficking because of their poor conditions. People in those areas don’t have great paying jobs (if a job at all), so it’s probably hard for them to make ends meet. Then they get so stressed out, they look for an escape and unfortunately, a lot of times that’s a drug. Then they get caught up in that cycle of the addiction and the need to “get away” and it keeps them in that condition they’re living in. They blow money on cocaine or crack instead of paying their bills and then they get behind even more. Some of them get caught up in selling as well as using. It’s just a vicious cycle. Then to make things worse, kids are brought up around that and are influenced into thinking that it’s ok or acceptable. And when people and youth as well need money to get their fix, they resort to crime and violence.
"Programs to Replace Drug Crops Not Effective Enough: UN Report." Xinhua General News Service. 1 Mar. 2006. Xinhua News Agency. 17 Aug. 2006
Cannibals Confess in Mozambique
Shemiah Foster
Ethnicity and Religion
Cannibals Confess in Mozambique
A husband and wife in Mozambique faced multiple charges after confessing to exhuming corpses to eat the flesh and powdered bones, say police. The couple was arrested in Vanduzi last weekend in possession of human organs, and said that eating human flesh strengthened their power to heal people. Upon further investigation it was discovered that their belief in witchcraft was strong.
This article was one that was confusing as far as whether this couple resorted to cannibalism because of their strong belief in witchcraft or whether it was just a personal choice. The article seemed to give off more of a feel that cannibalism was not something that was practiced often in Mozambique. I'm not really familiar with the practice of witchcraft but I'm pretty sure this is not typical behavior for it's followers. The article also made it seem like the decision to become cannibals was more of the husbands choice because he was a cannibal for twenty years while the wife only became one when her husband ordered her to. I do believe that both of them should have been arrested because whether their actions were a religious decision or not it was not only dangerous and unsanitary for them but it was also disrespectful to the families and the corpses.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/4801177.stm.
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Ethnicity and Religion
Cannibals Confess in Mozambique
A husband and wife in Mozambique faced multiple charges after confessing to exhuming corpses to eat the flesh and powdered bones, say police. The couple was arrested in Vanduzi last weekend in possession of human organs, and said that eating human flesh strengthened their power to heal people. Upon further investigation it was discovered that their belief in witchcraft was strong.
This article was one that was confusing as far as whether this couple resorted to cannibalism because of their strong belief in witchcraft or whether it was just a personal choice. The article seemed to give off more of a feel that cannibalism was not something that was practiced often in Mozambique. I'm not really familiar with the practice of witchcraft but I'm pretty sure this is not typical behavior for it's followers. The article also made it seem like the decision to become cannibals was more of the husbands choice because he was a cannibal for twenty years while the wife only became one when her husband ordered her to. I do believe that both of them should have been arrested because whether their actions were a religious decision or not it was not only dangerous and unsanitary for them but it was also disrespectful to the families and the corpses.
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/4801177.stm.
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spills show the urgent need to wean ourselves off oil
Shannon Norwood
SOC 202 – Current Event Log #1
08/18/06
The article from The Vancouver Sun, whose headline read “spills show the urgent need to wean ourselves off oil,” mainly focused on the oil leak off the coast of Lebanon. (http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/printdoc) A power plant was hit by an Israeli bomb in mid – July. This is an area of war zone so it is difficult to get the spill cleaned up. The exact seriousness of the problem is not known yet. It is estimated that 140 kilometers of coastline has been polluted and somewhere between 11 million and 40 million liters of oil have leaked into the ocean. The article stated that Ecologist are very worried about the affects the oil leak will have on the population of sea turtles and tuna. The oil leak can also affect the people living near the area. These people could become very sick. The article referenced other oil spills like the one on august 4th near Squamish, B.C., the Exxon Valdez spill in 1989, and the Prudhoe Bay in Alaska. The main point the article was making that these oil spills happen too often so our environment is harmed too often and the only sure way to prevent the spills is to stop using oil. The article also stated that the oil spills are the responsibilities of the companies, governments, and everyday consumers. The article believes that it is urgent that there is an alternative to oil.
Oil spills are a major problem that affects the ecosystem, the economy, and people. Lots of time and money are devoted to cleaning up the oil spills. Taxes in the area may rise to help afford the clean up. Also fishermen would be out of jobs due to the contamination of the fish. Oil spills can cause the destruction of a lot of ocean life. The oil spill that the article focused on talked about the loss of tuna and sea turtles. The tuna fishermen will not be able to fish for them, one because of contamination and two; because the supply of tuna will decrease even after the spill is cleaned up. Many sea turtles are endangered and the population of sea turtles is hard to determine. Oil spills will only worsen this situation.
I believe that oil spills do pose a serious problem but oil is needed. Until an alternative for oil can be determined, the risks for oil spills are still present. If an alternative can be found, that is environment friendly, I am sure many people would be happy and the environment cleaner.
SOC 202 – Current Event Log #1
08/18/06
The article from The Vancouver Sun, whose headline read “spills show the urgent need to wean ourselves off oil,” mainly focused on the oil leak off the coast of Lebanon. (http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/printdoc) A power plant was hit by an Israeli bomb in mid – July. This is an area of war zone so it is difficult to get the spill cleaned up. The exact seriousness of the problem is not known yet. It is estimated that 140 kilometers of coastline has been polluted and somewhere between 11 million and 40 million liters of oil have leaked into the ocean. The article stated that Ecologist are very worried about the affects the oil leak will have on the population of sea turtles and tuna. The oil leak can also affect the people living near the area. These people could become very sick. The article referenced other oil spills like the one on august 4th near Squamish, B.C., the Exxon Valdez spill in 1989, and the Prudhoe Bay in Alaska. The main point the article was making that these oil spills happen too often so our environment is harmed too often and the only sure way to prevent the spills is to stop using oil. The article also stated that the oil spills are the responsibilities of the companies, governments, and everyday consumers. The article believes that it is urgent that there is an alternative to oil.
Oil spills are a major problem that affects the ecosystem, the economy, and people. Lots of time and money are devoted to cleaning up the oil spills. Taxes in the area may rise to help afford the clean up. Also fishermen would be out of jobs due to the contamination of the fish. Oil spills can cause the destruction of a lot of ocean life. The oil spill that the article focused on talked about the loss of tuna and sea turtles. The tuna fishermen will not be able to fish for them, one because of contamination and two; because the supply of tuna will decrease even after the spill is cleaned up. Many sea turtles are endangered and the population of sea turtles is hard to determine. Oil spills will only worsen this situation.
I believe that oil spills do pose a serious problem but oil is needed. Until an alternative for oil can be determined, the risks for oil spills are still present. If an alternative can be found, that is environment friendly, I am sure many people would be happy and the environment cleaner.
Iraq war is an International Crime
The Headline for the article is "Iraq war is an International Crime."
This article is from a local news paper issued on Monday March 20, 2006; from the McClatchy Newspaper Inc. The title or listed as the headline of the article gives it all away. The main point of the article is that Iraq war is not necessary. How it is a crime to be fighting in this war. For one this war is considered to be illegal. Anything that is illegal means someone has committed a crime, and in this case someone has allowed the war to start and still now it is continuing. The crime is that family are being separated for something that could truly been prevented from the beginning. Yet, there are still people that support the war. Not trying to say that children will be orphan or that the people left behind are abandon, but it is saying that happy family are somewhat being broken up because of the war.
I truly belief; that the ones that are supporting the war have committed a bigger crime then the separation of family. That crime is murder. Murder for that men and women are sent daily oversea to fight. It does not matter who kill who; even in combat it is still murder. Sorry for saying this but why do we honor killer. Soldiers whom return home are murders. They are murder because they killed someone in the period of time that they are in the war. Other would say that they are fighting for the goods of this country, but then are they? Could it be that it is just their ego are driving them to think that this is for the goods of their own country. The concept of US in the war protecting everyone is what I view daily ranging from media to newspaper. The war effect the standard living style of individual and certain of our right are relinquish because of this war. Therefore, to have a war going on is a crime internationally.
Lexis Nexis document 9 of 125
Men in China outnumber women significantly
Christina Thompson
Topic: Gender and Family Issues
August 17, 2006 Article 1
An article to be published in the South China Morning Post, August 18, 2006 reported that men in China outnumber women significantly. There is a sharp gender imbalance between the number of new born girls and boys. The author has attributed this problem to the male dominated society that is in China. Women are not highly prized because families are dependant on males to bring money and stability to the family. The abortion of baby girls in Guangdong and Hainan China is very high. The government is not helping the problem by its one child per family policy. Families are desperate for boys since they are considered more valuable than girls. If they have more than one child then they aren’t given the government support that most need.
This problem cannot be fixed without the removal of social discrimination against women in China. Women are not being given the same opportunities as men and thus not able to show their full potential as being extremely valuable additions to a family. Although the article sites that this problem isn’t as bad as it was, the rural areas of China have not changed that much. Women in rural areas are still pressured to have baby boys over girls. The government can help this problem by advocating families to have women and give them the education and job opportunities they will need to succeed. I blame the government and backward cultural tradition for this imbalance in gender in China.
WORKS CITED:
Li , Raymond. "Alarm sounded on gender imbalance 10pc of men will struggle to find a mate in 20 years: experts." LexisNexis. Reed Elsevier Inc. 18 Aug 2006.
<http://libproxy.uncg.edu:2084/universe/document?_m=bd5924d49bd3092aa65549a90f3c4141&_docnum=1&wchp=dGLbVzb-zSkVA&_md5= ad86252913d5659000b2b8491513c367> p 1
United States Energy Usage
Kelley Wilson
SOC 202-02
Current Event
Environment
8/18/06
The main source of energy used in the United States is fossil fuels. It “uses a quarter of the world’s oil and a fifth of all the coal consumed each year.” Energy is essential to the continuing survival of the human race, but unwanted pollution and gases are being emitted from the sources the United States are using. Environmentalists are inventing new and improved ways to reduce the use of fossil fuels by creating unique alternative energy sources.
The first attempt to produce energy is from solar energy. It relies of the sun to produce heat, hot water, electricity, and even some cooling systems. This solar power would come from a semi-conductor substance and reflective devices, such as mirror panels, to alter the sun’s light into an energy source. Solar power does not pollute the environment and it lasts up to thirty years. The negative component would be that it takes a lot of sunlight to control it; therefore, places with low sunlight would not be able to use this form of energy.
Another form of energy willing to be used is hydroelectric power. The flow of water would power turbines which then would trigger the generators and produce electricity. Hydroelectricity also does not pollute the air. The water flow is controlled; as a result, the energy could be increased or decreased on command. Although this is a good form to use, it would be affected by a drought and also the fish in the energy powered area.
There are many more alternatives to fossil fuels such as wind, geothermal, biomass and nuclear powers. All sources have their pros and cons, but could assist the environment. With more research and development the earth will soon be powered by various new safe and effective energy sources.
Site: CNN.com
SOC 202-02
Current Event
Environment
8/18/06
The main source of energy used in the United States is fossil fuels. It “uses a quarter of the world’s oil and a fifth of all the coal consumed each year.” Energy is essential to the continuing survival of the human race, but unwanted pollution and gases are being emitted from the sources the United States are using. Environmentalists are inventing new and improved ways to reduce the use of fossil fuels by creating unique alternative energy sources.
The first attempt to produce energy is from solar energy. It relies of the sun to produce heat, hot water, electricity, and even some cooling systems. This solar power would come from a semi-conductor substance and reflective devices, such as mirror panels, to alter the sun’s light into an energy source. Solar power does not pollute the environment and it lasts up to thirty years. The negative component would be that it takes a lot of sunlight to control it; therefore, places with low sunlight would not be able to use this form of energy.
Another form of energy willing to be used is hydroelectric power. The flow of water would power turbines which then would trigger the generators and produce electricity. Hydroelectricity also does not pollute the air. The water flow is controlled; as a result, the energy could be increased or decreased on command. Although this is a good form to use, it would be affected by a drought and also the fish in the energy powered area.
There are many more alternatives to fossil fuels such as wind, geothermal, biomass and nuclear powers. All sources have their pros and cons, but could assist the environment. With more research and development the earth will soon be powered by various new safe and effective energy sources.
Site: CNN.com
U. S. Service Economy Grows at Slower Rate
U. S. Service Economy Grows at Slower Rate
The article begins by explaining how much of an impact the service sector has on the U.S. economy, accounting for two-thirds of it. There is also a possibility that the increase in gas prices are impacting growth in the service sector. The article points out the slower economy growth in May comparative to April. The article goes further to explain other changes that are taking place: such that energy costs are impacting transportation, banking and retailing. Ed Yardeni, a chief investment strategist argues that higher inflation or lower profits will not take place in the future because even though people are complaining currently, they?ve been maintaining.
I disagree with Yardeni?s view that businesses will be able to maintain, because currently that?s already untrue. He was using statistics from a specific population that has not yet been effected enough to create a change in their business. Therefore, I feel his statement is inaccurate. Clearly, people all around the world are being effected by the increase in fuel costs. The fact that the economic growth has slowed in one month shows evidence of what is to come. I feel that it is an ignorant view to state that people are not being effected, when in reality only a certain group of people are not being affected. I think this issue holds great significance for most people world wide. Furthermore it would be wise to predict what will happen and be prepared, rather than assuming the public will be able to maintain their income.
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=2040752=
The article begins by explaining how much of an impact the service sector has on the U.S. economy, accounting for two-thirds of it. There is also a possibility that the increase in gas prices are impacting growth in the service sector. The article points out the slower economy growth in May comparative to April. The article goes further to explain other changes that are taking place: such that energy costs are impacting transportation, banking and retailing. Ed Yardeni, a chief investment strategist argues that higher inflation or lower profits will not take place in the future because even though people are complaining currently, they?ve been maintaining.
I disagree with Yardeni?s view that businesses will be able to maintain, because currently that?s already untrue. He was using statistics from a specific population that has not yet been effected enough to create a change in their business. Therefore, I feel his statement is inaccurate. Clearly, people all around the world are being effected by the increase in fuel costs. The fact that the economic growth has slowed in one month shows evidence of what is to come. I feel that it is an ignorant view to state that people are not being effected, when in reality only a certain group of people are not being affected. I think this issue holds great significance for most people world wide. Furthermore it would be wise to predict what will happen and be prepared, rather than assuming the public will be able to maintain their income.
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=2040752=
Chinese health workers
Michelle Bradt
Current Events 1
An article on the BBC News website from September 2005 reports that Chinese health workers, specifically in the city of Linyi in the eastern province of Shadong, have been arrested or “sacked” for performing forced sterilization and abortion procedures. This is an ongoing issue in China, and recently BBC released an article covering the trial of a man, Chen Guangcheng, who has been an activist in this issue and who was last year detained for 30 hours for such activism.
Population growth policies and laws in China have been in place for about 25 years now, and include giving incentives to couples in urban areas for having only one child, and to couples in rural areas for having two. These laws, though I believe they were good hearted in their intent, have become a source for quashing what I believe are women’s natural rights. I am not in a position to judge whether that culture is wrong or right to control, or attempt to control, population growth, but once any woman’s body is violated without her consent, it becomes a strong reason for activists to jump on the issue.
Forcing any woman to have an abortion or to become sterilized is clearly wrong in itself, but it is an indicator of another issue for women: pronatalism. When women are defined by whether they have a child, it creates a stigma that they are unfulfilled if they are barren, sterilized, or simply don’t want children. If this mindset exists within societies, as it does in many if not most modern ones, it will continue to make a barrier between men and women and what they “should” or “should not” do. These gender biases only help to strengthen the inequalities between the sexes. Forcing women to become sterile or to have abortions, basically forcing them to release control of their own bodies and choices, is one step in the direction of a pronatalist ideology.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4262890.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/5262748.stm
Current Events 1
An article on the BBC News website from September 2005 reports that Chinese health workers, specifically in the city of Linyi in the eastern province of Shadong, have been arrested or “sacked” for performing forced sterilization and abortion procedures. This is an ongoing issue in China, and recently BBC released an article covering the trial of a man, Chen Guangcheng, who has been an activist in this issue and who was last year detained for 30 hours for such activism.
Population growth policies and laws in China have been in place for about 25 years now, and include giving incentives to couples in urban areas for having only one child, and to couples in rural areas for having two. These laws, though I believe they were good hearted in their intent, have become a source for quashing what I believe are women’s natural rights. I am not in a position to judge whether that culture is wrong or right to control, or attempt to control, population growth, but once any woman’s body is violated without her consent, it becomes a strong reason for activists to jump on the issue.
Forcing any woman to have an abortion or to become sterilized is clearly wrong in itself, but it is an indicator of another issue for women: pronatalism. When women are defined by whether they have a child, it creates a stigma that they are unfulfilled if they are barren, sterilized, or simply don’t want children. If this mindset exists within societies, as it does in many if not most modern ones, it will continue to make a barrier between men and women and what they “should” or “should not” do. These gender biases only help to strengthen the inequalities between the sexes. Forcing women to become sterile or to have abortions, basically forcing them to release control of their own bodies and choices, is one step in the direction of a pronatalist ideology.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/4262890.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/5262748.stm
Boeing to End Its Service for Using Internet Aloft
Current Events Log Week 1
Technology
Usman Baig
Boeing to End Its Service for Using Internet Aloft
This article is about Boeing to end its service for using internet on planes arguing that there’s not enough demand for this service. Shutting down internet service will affect those people who use internet service to handle their business while flying. It would also affect major airlines such as Lufthansa Airline because many of its customers use internet service to keep track of stocks, emails, while flying. However, Boeing released a survey report in which 3,200 customers said shutting down internet service wouldn’t affect them. Boeing estimated that in-flight internet would cost the company billions of dollars in the next 10 years and not many customers would need this. And many airlines wouldn’t be able to afford it in near future.
Boeing’s competitor Airbus will initiate its own internet service when their new A380 aircrafts will be released later this year. I think there’s a solution to this problem. Instead of offering this service to all passengers in a flight airline can only offer this service to those who wants to handle their business needs while onboard. And increase their rates for using the service and not too many people will be using it. And pay Boeing for not shutting down the service. It won’t hurt the company now but it will hurt them in the near future because demand for internet increases everyday. It may not be profitable now but it will be eventually.
Source:
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/18/business/18boeing.html?ref=technology
Technology
Usman Baig
Boeing to End Its Service for Using Internet Aloft
This article is about Boeing to end its service for using internet on planes arguing that there’s not enough demand for this service. Shutting down internet service will affect those people who use internet service to handle their business while flying. It would also affect major airlines such as Lufthansa Airline because many of its customers use internet service to keep track of stocks, emails, while flying. However, Boeing released a survey report in which 3,200 customers said shutting down internet service wouldn’t affect them. Boeing estimated that in-flight internet would cost the company billions of dollars in the next 10 years and not many customers would need this. And many airlines wouldn’t be able to afford it in near future.
Boeing’s competitor Airbus will initiate its own internet service when their new A380 aircrafts will be released later this year. I think there’s a solution to this problem. Instead of offering this service to all passengers in a flight airline can only offer this service to those who wants to handle their business needs while onboard. And increase their rates for using the service and not too many people will be using it. And pay Boeing for not shutting down the service. It won’t hurt the company now but it will hurt them in the near future because demand for internet increases everyday. It may not be profitable now but it will be eventually.
Source:
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/18/business/18boeing.html?ref=technology
Black Churches Today
Current Event One: Ethnicy and Religion
Heather Swift
Many black churches today seem to focus on issues such as denying a woman the right to choose an abortion, or a gay couple has also taken action, but now the black churches are speaking narrowly on the subject.Many African-Americans do ont support these beliefs, but when the National Conference and revival for social justice in the black church held a conference, they realized there are more important issues.In the years 2000 and 2004 both Florida and Ohio respectivly, it was rumored that the Republican party tried to prevent the voting of African-Americans. Rev. Al Sharpton stated "That's why I'll be traveling to Florida and Ohio soon to push for the reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act and against new anti-voting legislation.." This made people realize that their efforts needed to be changed and focused on more crucial problems such as racism,poverty,and inequalties of voting. At this three day event, Ministers from all over the country realized that they should never forget the man that was resposible for leading them into freedom. Dr. Martin Luther King jr. was a strong believer in Christianity, and put his heart and soul into promoting. Many have choosen to ignore the vision that Dr. King tried to promote.Many African-Americans realized that without the teachings of Dr. King they may have never been allowed to have their own church. They believe that everyone has the right to freedom of speech but one person should not speak for everyone. The National Conference and revival for social justice in the African-American chruch was reunited in Augusta, Georgia at the end of July,they focused on the on-going fight against racism, inequality, social justice, and universal voting rights.
Heather Swift
Many black churches today seem to focus on issues such as denying a woman the right to choose an abortion, or a gay couple has also taken action, but now the black churches are speaking narrowly on the subject.Many African-Americans do ont support these beliefs, but when the National Conference and revival for social justice in the black church held a conference, they realized there are more important issues.In the years 2000 and 2004 both Florida and Ohio respectivly, it was rumored that the Republican party tried to prevent the voting of African-Americans. Rev. Al Sharpton stated "That's why I'll be traveling to Florida and Ohio soon to push for the reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act and against new anti-voting legislation.." This made people realize that their efforts needed to be changed and focused on more crucial problems such as racism,poverty,and inequalties of voting. At this three day event, Ministers from all over the country realized that they should never forget the man that was resposible for leading them into freedom. Dr. Martin Luther King jr. was a strong believer in Christianity, and put his heart and soul into promoting. Many have choosen to ignore the vision that Dr. King tried to promote.Many African-Americans realized that without the teachings of Dr. King they may have never been allowed to have their own church. They believe that everyone has the right to freedom of speech but one person should not speak for everyone. The National Conference and revival for social justice in the African-American chruch was reunited in Augusta, Georgia at the end of July,they focused on the on-going fight against racism, inequality, social justice, and universal voting rights.
The Job "Recovery" is Over
I reviewed the article "The Job "Recovery" is Over" (http://www.laborresearch.org/story2.php/422). The article describes the rising unemployment in the nation in "urban labor markets", and while there was a rise in employment during the first quarter of 2006, there is now another decline. The article also states that "employment in manufacturing, transportation, and whole sale trades is still below 2001 levels". Finaly the article discusses this influence on inflation and the fact that "lower-wage jobs are growing faster than higher-wage jobs". As a result of this the minimum wage debate beceause even more important.I found this article beneficial. I think that it is very important to understand the importance of what goes on in the job market, as we as students embarke upon the world of employment. This article also breaks down a very brief history of the ups and downs of basic economics and the job market. It is also very timely, only a few months after strikes from many illegal immigrants from their minimum wage jobs. And if the job market continues to decline some Americans may be forced to take lower paying jobs.
Lindsay Rowland
Lindsay Rowland
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