Is it green to be green?

Dear all,

 

Let’s talk about living green.

Please find the article at:

http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2012/09/28/is-it-green-to-be-green/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ng%2FNEWSBlogs%2FNat_Geo_News_Watch+%28News+Watch%29

 

The questions read as follows:

 

1. What is your general idea of going green? Did you think that being green cost big bucks? If yes, does this article change your idea?

 

2. Do you know anyone who is obsessed with living a green life? What do you think of her or him?

 

3. The author mentioned long-term effects of diet and health in the essay. Some people stick to strict diet rules for longevity, while some others argues that they would rather heartily enjoy delicacies and live a shorter but much happier life. What’s your opinion?

 

4. Did the author convince you that one should live greener? Of all the deeds in the drawing, what have you been doing? What would you like to do? What is the last thing you want to do?

Is Chinese Going To Replace English?

There is no doubt that China is getting more and more powerful. Both the political and economical influence of China is on the rise. It is said that 21st century is the century of Chinese. So do you think that Chinese is going to replace English and to become the most important language in the world?

Below you will find an article in The Economist, discussing why the author believes that Chinese is not going to be that language.
http://moreintelligentlife.com/content/ideas/robert-lane-greene/should-you-teach-your-kids-chinese

Following Questiones

1. Do you agree that China resists to switch the characters to alphabet system simply because of tradition and nationalism? Are there any other purpose that Chinese characters serve?

On the other hand, what is the reason that Taiwan insists on using traditional characters instead of simplified ones? Do you think that Taiwanese society should adapt to the simplified-character system for the easy-to- use purpose? Why or why not?

2. Do you believe that being able to speak mandarin will grant you or have granted you more opportunity?
If you could choose, which language would you choose as your first language?

3. Do you agree that one day, Chinese will replace English and become the most common language in the world that everybody knows and most researchers submit thesis in?
What kind of factors are important for a language to become the main language?

4. In which way do you think the life may change in Taiwan and in other mandarin spoken countries if Chinese become the main language?

Typhoon

Dear all,

I guess you must have heard so much about typhoons recently.

Well, it’s hoped that you are not tired of this subject because it will be one of our next topics.

Please find the article at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhoon.

The questions read as follows:

1. When it comes to typhoons, what pops up in your mind? Please tell us about the most impressive typhoon in your book.

2. Who do you know is in charge of the suspension of offices and schools under a typhoon warning? What’s your general opinion about this suspension?

3. According to Meteorological Act, only the Central Weather Bureau can issue hazardous weather warnings or forecasts to the public. Does it make sense to you? Why or why not?

4. Some people detest probability forecasts and would rather get a definite statement, regardless of its accuracy, about weather. What do you think about this idea?

Much appreciated!

Self Deception

Dear all,

This week, I've prepared an article in psychology field, self deception. It is argued that lying to ourselves and convincing ourselves that we are better may actually cast postive influence, leading to a better result in our lives. What's your opinion and your personal experience about self deception? Following is the article about self deception appeared in the Washinton Street Journal.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443343704577548973568243982.html?mod=WSJASIA_hpp_MIDDLELSMini

Please read the article and below are questions that we are going to discuss for the coming meeting.

1. Do you agree with the concept of self-deception indicated in the article. Why and why not?
2. Have you ever lied to yourself? Were you aware that you were justing lying at the moment? Did the situation turn out to be better because of the the self-deception process?
3. As a friend, are you always being supportive to your friend even though you know he/she is just lying to themselves? Moreover, do you encourage your friends to lie to themselves? Give one of your personal example.
4. Are there any drawback resulted from the self-deception action?

Confidence

Below is a ted video clip that we are going to talk about this week.
http://www.ted.com/talks/david_kelley_how_to_build_your_creative_confidence.html

Please consider the following questions.
1. In which way do you consider(ed) yourself a creative person?
2. Are you afraid of being judged? In your experience, is there any judgement that affects your confidence?
3. When you were little, what did you want to do in the future? Do you like what you are doing now, or are you on the path of what you are passionate about?

Summer

The Sibling Bond

Dear all,
Following is a video talk in ted with the topic "the sibling bond."
http://www.ted.com/talks/jeffrey_kluger_the_sibling_bond.html

Please see the video the below are the questions we are going to talk about!
1. Do you have a sibling. Were you close to you them? Share you childhood experience with your sibling.
2. Are you close to them now? Describe your relationship with your sister or brother.
3. Do you feel pressured if you are compared with your sibling.
4. Do your parents have preference. Are you the favorite one within the family.
5. If you could choose, which kind of family would you want to have? Which role would you want to play in the family.

Summer

The overnight sensation

Dear all,
Here comes the questions for discussion.

1. Have you ever heard both of them before you read the articles? How do you think of them? Do they have anything in common?
2. Do you think they achieve the instant fame somewhat because they don’t conform to the usual stereotype? Why or why not?
3. Please name some people who became overnight sensations. In your opinion, who most deserves the honor? Do you disapprove the success of anyone? Why?
4. Would you like to be one of them if you had the chance? If yes, which one? Why or why not?
5. Some people say that in tough times, people seek heroes to comfort them and give them inspiration, and that’s why such tales are more prevalent. Do you agree or disagree? Why?


'Linsanity' hits Taiwan as Jeremy Lin conquers NBA
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-17052383

How Susan Boyle won over the world .
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8005767.stm


Jeremy must have been known more or less by all of you.

If you are not familiar with Susan Boyle, please refer to the following video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OcQ9A-5noM&feature=related

The new upper class

Hi guys,

This week we are looking at an interesting article which defines and explores the "new upper class." http://time.chtah.com/a/hBPOUUWBASRffB7Wj6WNW56v9Fw/time76-63
Below are questions for discussion.

1. By the definition of the "new upper class", for what reasons do you think people in general resent this set of people? How about youself? Do you resent them also and why or why not?

2. Any public figures you think fit the profile of this new group? and why?

3. It mentioned in the article that the new upper class creates its own culture, segregating themselves from the mainstream culture. What does this new culture look like?

4. What are the upsides and downsides of this new class likely to influence the society as a whole?

5. Do you wish yourself or your children to join this new class? why or why not?

Why summer vacation won't make you feel happier?

Dear all,
Happy Chinese New Year!
This year, the Chinese-New-Year holiday is pretty long, though we still think that nine days are just not enough. Therefore, although it might be a little cliche, our topic is related to vacation, or long holiday.

We once have discussed if long vacation is necessary. Now, let's share our feeling after the long, or not that long holiday!

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2010/07/28/why-summer-vacation-won-t-make-you-happier.html
Following are questions for you!

1. How do you usually spend your vacation, and how did you spend you Chinese-New-Year holiday this time? Was it awesome as you had expected?
2. Do you now feel the same way as the author mentioned: not feeling happy after returning from the vacation. Why and why not?
3. Do you agree that vacation helps you relax so that when you return, you will be more efficient in whatever you are doing?

Why have servants?

Hi guys,

For next week's topic, please check out this article: http://www.economist.com/node/21541712?fsrc=scn/fb/wl/ar/whyhaveservants

Questions for discussion:
1. Do you agree with the idea that prosperous people hire servants not merely to elicit assistance for household chores but maily to satisfy their "propensity for dominance?" Any examples to support your argument?

2. If you have a servant, what role(s) will you assign him/her and yourself as? Namely, what shall be the appropriate master-servant relationship?

3. Housekeepers, nannies, and cleaners all fall into the category of servants. If you have the need to hire some helpers, what would be your priority?

4. The article points out one fact that people are hesitant to hire nice-looking maids. Do you think this implies possible sexual harrassments or even abuses? Any examples you've ever heard of? Also, the article reveals that color-skinned servants are rich people's preference (over locals). Do you think this phenomenon contributes to illegal deeds, say human trafficking?

5. It says in the article that some masters require their servants to wear uniforms. How do you think of this practice? What are the impetus? Is there any similarities between these masters' behaviours and those of maid-resturant goers?

-------------
That's all for now. Happy reading and happy 2012!

Concerning the education, we usually think that Asian family and the society, or even Chinese family and the society  put too much emphasis on studying or on the academic behavior. I believe, to us, it is no surprise that Chinese students outperform other students in the world. However, fewer achievements later in adulthood compared to the early life success lead us to wonder if there is something wrong in our education system. Now more and more parents are trying to send their children abroad to have a "better' education.". After all, as for now, the western countries, the U.S., and some European countries cast the greatest power on the world economy, business, and other aspects, it is almost certain that their education is better than ours.

Following link is a report from CNN that describes the education in the China, and that because of the Chinese education system and the studying atmosphere, the U.S is now feeling intimidated. 

http://am.blogs.cnn.com/2010/12/09/heres-why-china-is-beating-the-u-s-in-education/

1. What do you know about Chinese education? What are the differences between Chinese education system and Taiwanese one?  

2. If you can choose, where do you want your children to accept education? Is it because you want them to have a more pleasant childhood or you want them to be competitive in their future?

Weather Forecasting

Dear all,

Please ask yourself both the following questions before you read the materials.
1. How do you think weather forecasts are made?
2. In your book, what does probability of precipitation (POP) mean? Does POP have anything to do with the intensity or the duration time of the rainfall?

Here are the articles:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weather_forecasting
http://www.weatherquestions.com/How_are_weather_forecasts_made.htm

I’d also like to know:
3. Do the articles change your opinion about weather forecasting? How?
4. Do you think perfect weather forecasts are possible in the near future? Why?
5. Do you have any advice for the Central Weather Bureau?

Hope you’ll enjoy the topic!
Best regards,

Stefano

The happiness

The topic I would like to shares is on the TED . http://www.ted.com/talks/dan_gilbert_asks_why_are_we_happy.html
The professor is describing the structure of the brain and is further explaining how and what make us happy. Followings are the questions.
1. Is there something that becomes more attractive to you after you actually owning it?
2. Do you agree that you can actually “synthesize happiness” after failing to achieve things? Do you have similar experience?
3. What is your life goal at the moment and do you think you will gain a great amount of happiness after achieving it.

Unmarried Pregnancy

1. What are the consequences an unmarried pregnant woman is to face? (in terms of economic, educational, career, physical, emotional (morality) and legal aspects)
2. What options do unmarried pregnant women have? What should be factored in to make a "right" decision?
3. As parents, what role shall they play at such juncture?


http://www.troubledwith.com/ParentingTeens/A000000798.cfm?topic=parenting%20teens%3A%20crisis%20pregnancy

Things learned from a flight crash

Hi guys,

This week I want to share two talks on TED.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/ric_elias.html

http://www.ted.com/talks/matt_cutts_try_something_new_for_30_days.html

It may sound a bit cliche, but at least we can know how a person thinks when he thought he's about to die.

Here are the questions:

1. What are those things you want to do but haven't done yet, because you think you will have the chance in the future?

2. Is there any negative emotions that you want to get rid of?

3. Name one thing you will change in the next 30 days and we can come back to see if we all achieve next month.

Don't insist on English

Dear all,

This week I would like to talk about a topic that seems contradict the purpose of our study group.

Please refer to the TED talk below. It's just ten-minute long.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/chi_hant/patricia_ryan_ideas_in_all_languages_not_just_english.html

We will discuss the following question.

1. Why do you want to learn and improve another language? It can be English, French, or even a dialect.

2. Is there any bad impact on your mother tognue as your Englihsh ability improves? Name some.

3. Try to give an example that can only be perfectly conveyed in Mandarin but lose its essence after translation.

4. Besides the reason in the talk, is there any other reason why a language that few people speak should be protected?

Since some of us learned or even majored in linguistics, the questions can be changed if we can think of other more interesting questions!

Weichieh

The best country

Dear all,

First, I'm terribly sorry for the last-minute post. Since lots of the members are going to be abroad, today our topics will focus on the countries.

http://www.newsweek.com/2010/08/16/why-cold-depressive-countries-end-up-the-best.html
In the Newsweek, there is an article discussing about the best countries in the world. According to the list the author relied on, Finland and Switzerland are the top 1 and 2 best countries. Then the author drew the conclusion that what the best countries share common are "they avoid the war, they live in the dark, and they maintain a steady state of depressive and productive activity. Besides, why those cold, depressive countries end up the best?

Below are three questions we are going to discuss:
1. What is your favorite country to travel, and what is your favorite country to live?
2. To be the best one, what is the most important substance do you think a country should possess?
3.Which part of Taiwan you love and will miss the most when you are outside Taiwan?

Have a big bite

Dear,

I'm so jealous of you who can attend the recent meetings, cause the topics are just so inspiring and touching!!!

And I'm so sorry for the late post, kind of irresponsibility...

This week I squeeze my brain to come up with some interesting topic unlike the unclear plants or the revolution in Middle East, and then I thought about this:
Eating style. I guess it's pretty easy and matching to discuss while having dinner together!

1. Let's start with a very simple question, what's the food you like the most and dislike the most? Why?

2. What is your little habit before starting a meal? Things would be like pray to the God, wash your hand, or clean the table by tissues, what's your unique one?

3. If we put our meals into two styles, the first type is your everyday meals, the second is the "big" meals. What are the factors lead you to the decision everyday meals. In other words, what is your concern on your foods?

4. What is your concern on the big meals?

5. Are you a person care food much or not? We know a Chinese proverb goes like
"Eating, clothing, living,transportation, education, recreation" (Sarah I need your talent!!!),eating is the priority or it should be other things in the first place?



http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/graham_hill_weekday_vegetarian.html

This is a very short talks(4 mins), and it talks about the vegetarian, the speaker offer some practical advices on becoming a vege, and I suggest everyone should watch it.

6. Have you ever consider to become a vege(I assume everyone eats meats..)? Why? Do you know any advantages or disadvantages of becoming a vege? Talk about yourself or your friends, realtives' stories.

7. Would you give it a try? Why or why not?



I'm not sure if the questions are abundant and meaningful, I'll try!!!



Hector

WHOLE HEARTED. (today's topic)

http://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability.html

Acting like a grown up

Dear all,

Long time no see, hope everyone is well.

This week I'd like to talk about some behaviors that indicate we are a grown up, actions being done because we "think" and we care about others, not just because it is polite to do so.

Please find below an article from INTELLIGENT magazine, spring 2011 edition.

http://moreintelligentlife.com/content/ideas/robert-butler/acting-a-grown

It covers a wide range from thinking to acting green. We will be discussing the following questions on Tuesday,

1. What are some of the things you've been taught to do or not to do when you were young? What was the reason behind it?

2. In the article, it raised the idea "noticing there is someone else in the room", can you think of any examples of this (either positive or negative)?

3. What does "going green" mean to you? Do you pay attention to what is happening around you? Or do you follow the green policy because it's a trend and you were taught to do so?

4. What do you think about "the loss of equilibrium that ensues when people cease to understand their surroundings as a home"? Can you give us an example of this loss?

Hope you all enjoy reading this article and find it inspiring too!

Sarah