Please go to www.mbchuo2.blogspot.com
Thanks!
2007年9月30日日曜日
2007年7月26日木曜日
Have a good break!
Thanks for all the hard work this semester. I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable summer holiday. Remember to spend a moment now and then thinking about what topic you're going to work on next semester for your individual research project. Think of something you're interested in, something you'll enjoy researching, writing on and learning more about.
Here's something for some of you to ponder over the break. See if you agree!
"Human beings do not live in the objective world alone, nor alone in the world of social activity as ordinarily understood, but are very much at the mercy of the particular language which has become the medium of expression for their society. It is quite an illusion to imagine that one adjusts to reality essentially without the use of language and that language is merely an incidental means of solving specific problems of communication or reflection. The fact of the matter is that the 'real world' is to a large extent unconsciously built upon the language habits of the group. No two languages are ever sufficiently similar to be considered as representing the same social reality. The worlds in which different societies live are distinct worlds, not merely the same world with different labels attached... We see and hear and otherwise experience very largely as we do because the language habits of our community predispose certain choices of interpretation." Sapir (1929)
Take care, enjoy the surf, sun and sleeping-in late, and I'll see you all in September.
cheers,
Michael
Here's something for some of you to ponder over the break. See if you agree!
"Human beings do not live in the objective world alone, nor alone in the world of social activity as ordinarily understood, but are very much at the mercy of the particular language which has become the medium of expression for their society. It is quite an illusion to imagine that one adjusts to reality essentially without the use of language and that language is merely an incidental means of solving specific problems of communication or reflection. The fact of the matter is that the 'real world' is to a large extent unconsciously built upon the language habits of the group. No two languages are ever sufficiently similar to be considered as representing the same social reality. The worlds in which different societies live are distinct worlds, not merely the same world with different labels attached... We see and hear and otherwise experience very largely as we do because the language habits of our community predispose certain choices of interpretation." Sapir (1929)
Take care, enjoy the surf, sun and sleeping-in late, and I'll see you all in September.
cheers,
Michael
Issei Shioya: Recent Student Paragraph
Hard Water and Soft Water
There are two basic kinds of water: hard water and soft water. The hardness of water is decided by how much magnesium and calcium the water contains. To give some examples, soft water products available in convenience stores include “Volvic,” “Crystal Geyser,” and "Rokko no Oishi Mizu” while hard water products are “Evian,” “Vittel,” “Contrex.” The main kind of water which is drunk in Japan is soft water, and I strongly prefer soft water to hard water. First of all, there is the widely known fact that hard water contains more minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and it is good as a mineral supplement after sport or as a calcium supplement for pregnant women; however, hard water has a unique smell which most people find it bad, and the more calcium and magnesium water contains, the worse the smells. Secondly, soft water is more suitable for most Japanese cuisine such as miso-soup, cooking rice, green tea and so on. For example, in cooking rice, using hard water makes the rice lose its moisture easily and ruins the natural good smell, whereas using soft water makes the moisture remain in rice and also brings out the nice smell of it. For these reasons, soft water is better than hard water.
Issei Shioya
There are two basic kinds of water: hard water and soft water. The hardness of water is decided by how much magnesium and calcium the water contains. To give some examples, soft water products available in convenience stores include “Volvic,” “Crystal Geyser,” and "Rokko no Oishi Mizu” while hard water products are “Evian,” “Vittel,” “Contrex.” The main kind of water which is drunk in Japan is soft water, and I strongly prefer soft water to hard water. First of all, there is the widely known fact that hard water contains more minerals such as calcium and magnesium, and it is good as a mineral supplement after sport or as a calcium supplement for pregnant women; however, hard water has a unique smell which most people find it bad, and the more calcium and magnesium water contains, the worse the smells. Secondly, soft water is more suitable for most Japanese cuisine such as miso-soup, cooking rice, green tea and so on. For example, in cooking rice, using hard water makes the rice lose its moisture easily and ruins the natural good smell, whereas using soft water makes the moisture remain in rice and also brings out the nice smell of it. For these reasons, soft water is better than hard water.
Issei Shioya
2007年7月13日金曜日
Miyuki Muto: Recent Student Paragraph
Problems of Oil and Ethanol
Compared to fossil fuel, it is said bio-ethanol is a positive innovation; however, both fossil fuel and bio-ethanol contribute to economic, environmental, and physical problems. First, coal, oil, and natural gas are the most commonly used fossil fuels. Today, in the world the price of oil is increasing. For example, in Japan the price of oil is about 130 yen today. Not only oil, but also the price of airplane tickets has increased because of the cost of oil. Bio-ethanol is ethanol is made from fermented and distilled corn and sugar corn. Since President Bush stated that consumption of oil will decrease 20% by 2017, and bio-ethanol would be used as an alternative fuel, farmers in Middle and South America have switched from orange and grape crops to corn and sugar corn crops. Because of this change, the price of oranges in Japan, pears in Europe, and potatoes in Mexico has jumped. In Mexico, people demonstrated against the jump in prices. Second, both oil and bio-ethanol contribute to environmental problems. As you know, oil emits carbon dioxide in the consumption process. A lot of carbon dioxide harms the ozone layer, which leads to global warming. Also, oil is a finite resource. It is said that there is only enough oil remaining for forty-two years. Unlike oil, bio-ethanol lowers the discharge of carbon dioxide as well as other greenhouse gases. However, in the process of production, bio-ethanol needs to burn much fuel. The materials of bio-ethanol, such as corn and sugar corn, might need fertilizer and insecticide which cause soil contamination and air pollution. It may also be necessary to cut down tropical forests for the expansion of farmland. Third, both oil and bio-ethanol have a bad influence on our bodies. An excess of carbon dioxide causes dizziness and headaches, which means a decline of thinking power. Bio-ethanol decreases carbon dioxide. That is a good point; however, it increases carcinogenic substances compared to oil. Also, it is said that photochemical smog will becomes worse, and deaths caused by asthma will increase. Therefore, both oil and bio-ethanol have economic, environmental, and physical problems. We cannot say which is good, which is bad. I think it is important to take the best measures to supply food, sustain the environment, and keep our condition.
Compared to fossil fuel, it is said bio-ethanol is a positive innovation; however, both fossil fuel and bio-ethanol contribute to economic, environmental, and physical problems. First, coal, oil, and natural gas are the most commonly used fossil fuels. Today, in the world the price of oil is increasing. For example, in Japan the price of oil is about 130 yen today. Not only oil, but also the price of airplane tickets has increased because of the cost of oil. Bio-ethanol is ethanol is made from fermented and distilled corn and sugar corn. Since President Bush stated that consumption of oil will decrease 20% by 2017, and bio-ethanol would be used as an alternative fuel, farmers in Middle and South America have switched from orange and grape crops to corn and sugar corn crops. Because of this change, the price of oranges in Japan, pears in Europe, and potatoes in Mexico has jumped. In Mexico, people demonstrated against the jump in prices. Second, both oil and bio-ethanol contribute to environmental problems. As you know, oil emits carbon dioxide in the consumption process. A lot of carbon dioxide harms the ozone layer, which leads to global warming. Also, oil is a finite resource. It is said that there is only enough oil remaining for forty-two years. Unlike oil, bio-ethanol lowers the discharge of carbon dioxide as well as other greenhouse gases. However, in the process of production, bio-ethanol needs to burn much fuel. The materials of bio-ethanol, such as corn and sugar corn, might need fertilizer and insecticide which cause soil contamination and air pollution. It may also be necessary to cut down tropical forests for the expansion of farmland. Third, both oil and bio-ethanol have a bad influence on our bodies. An excess of carbon dioxide causes dizziness and headaches, which means a decline of thinking power. Bio-ethanol decreases carbon dioxide. That is a good point; however, it increases carcinogenic substances compared to oil. Also, it is said that photochemical smog will becomes worse, and deaths caused by asthma will increase. Therefore, both oil and bio-ethanol have economic, environmental, and physical problems. We cannot say which is good, which is bad. I think it is important to take the best measures to supply food, sustain the environment, and keep our condition.
2007年6月20日水曜日
Friday C2 Group Presentations
Each participant should speak for approximately 5 minutes. Class members will be asked to respond at the end of the presentation with questions and comments.
Friday July 13, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Hiroaki Ohara
Asumi Kato
Yukika Nishimoto
Mai Aoki
International Issues and Events
Fumiaki Mizuno
Hiroyuki Imamura
Satomi Sekiya
Ayana Abe
Friday July 20, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Takako Saito
Chiyono Okazaki
Fumiya Akaishi
Kouichi Satoh
Takumi Motegi
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Hanako Noumi
Miyuki Muto
Chisa Murohashi
Takamasa Yakushiji
Friday July 13, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Hiroaki Ohara
Asumi Kato
Yukika Nishimoto
Mai Aoki
International Issues and Events
Fumiaki Mizuno
Hiroyuki Imamura
Satomi Sekiya
Ayana Abe
Friday July 20, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Takako Saito
Chiyono Okazaki
Fumiya Akaishi
Kouichi Satoh
Takumi Motegi
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Hanako Noumi
Miyuki Muto
Chisa Murohashi
Takamasa Yakushiji
Wednesday B4 Group Presentations
Each participant should speak for approximately 5 minutes. Class members will be asked to respond at the end of the presentation with questions and comments.
Wednesday 11 July, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Kana Okuda
Tomomi Nakagawa
Ato Furuya
Yuu Maruyama
Domestic Issues and Events
Yuuki Inoue
Kohei Adachi
Yoshinori Kitagawa
International Issues and Events
Kentaro Ogawa
Momoko Miyake
Naoko Kato
Wednesday 18 July, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Marie Ogi
Naho Komaki
Sachi Oshiro
Rina Otsuka
Reiko Tahaka
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Minami Sato
Wakako Ito
Koki Furusawa
Naoyuki Ueda
Wednesday 11 July, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Kana Okuda
Tomomi Nakagawa
Ato Furuya
Yuu Maruyama
Domestic Issues and Events
Yuuki Inoue
Kohei Adachi
Yoshinori Kitagawa
International Issues and Events
Kentaro Ogawa
Momoko Miyake
Naoko Kato
Wednesday 18 July, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Marie Ogi
Naho Komaki
Sachi Oshiro
Rina Otsuka
Reiko Tahaka
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Minami Sato
Wakako Ito
Koki Furusawa
Naoyuki Ueda
Monday D3 Group Presentations
Each participant should speak for approximately 5 minutes. Class members will be asked to respond at the end of the presentation with questions and comments.
Monday July 16, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Junko Kariyazaki
Chihiro Yamamoto
Megumi Kitanishi
Chasmin Yoshino
International Issues and Events
Yoshika Nakamura
Keisuke Sanada
Hiromasa Hata
Kazuki Iibuchi
Monday July 23, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Tetsu Hosono
Nozomi Sato
Yahiro Mitsui
Tomoko Murasaki
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Miyuki Takizawa
Akiko Takahashi
Koichiro Tsuta
Shiro Misaki
Monday July 16, Period 3.
Domestic Issues and Events
Junko Kariyazaki
Chihiro Yamamoto
Megumi Kitanishi
Chasmin Yoshino
International Issues and Events
Yoshika Nakamura
Keisuke Sanada
Hiromasa Hata
Kazuki Iibuchi
Monday July 23, Period 3.
Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Tetsu Hosono
Nozomi Sato
Yahiro Mitsui
Tomoko Murasaki
Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Miyuki Takizawa
Akiko Takahashi
Koichiro Tsuta
Shiro Misaki
2007年6月19日火曜日
Recent Student Paragraphs: Shiho Hirabayashi
Paragraph Title: “Greenhouse Effects in Japan”
Today, the problems of greenhouse effects are getting worse all over the country. There are three severe effects on the environment as well as on industry and energy. First, the mean temperature has been rising over the last century because of greenhouse effects. To make matters worse, there are torrential rains in local places such as Kyusyu and Shikoku. Second, greenhouse effects cause the destruction of ecosystems. Recently, jellyfish proliferate abnormally along the Japanese coastline, on the Japan Sea as well as the Pacific Ocean coasts. Moreover the catch of fish is getting lower because of a decrease in phytoplankton. Finally, greenhouse effects also have a great influence on industry and energy. The rising temperatures cause the consumption structure to change. Seasonal products such as air conditioners, beers, soft drinks and ice creams will sell tremendously well so companies have to increase production and keep up with customer’s demand. However, the rate of the companies' operation will also cause a sharp increase in electricity consumption. To eradicate these problems, we should know what is going on around us and raise our awareness about them.
Shiho Hirabayashi
References
Ministry of the Environment. “ 地球温暖化の日本への影響２００１”
概要 28 May . 2007 地球環境•国際協力.
http://www.env.go.jp/press/file_view.php3?serial=2223&hou_id=2598
Wikipedia “地球温暖化” ウィキペディアフリー百科事典. 28 May. 2007
http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/地球温暖化
Wikipedia “Global warming” wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
28 May. 2007 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_warming
Today, the problems of greenhouse effects are getting worse all over the country. There are three severe effects on the environment as well as on industry and energy. First, the mean temperature has been rising over the last century because of greenhouse effects. To make matters worse, there are torrential rains in local places such as Kyusyu and Shikoku. Second, greenhouse effects cause the destruction of ecosystems. Recently, jellyfish proliferate abnormally along the Japanese coastline, on the Japan Sea as well as the Pacific Ocean coasts. Moreover the catch of fish is getting lower because of a decrease in phytoplankton. Finally, greenhouse effects also have a great influence on industry and energy. The rising temperatures cause the consumption structure to change. Seasonal products such as air conditioners, beers, soft drinks and ice creams will sell tremendously well so companies have to increase production and keep up with customer’s demand. However, the rate of the companies' operation will also cause a sharp increase in electricity consumption. To eradicate these problems, we should know what is going on around us and raise our awareness about them.
Shiho Hirabayashi
References
Ministry of the Environment. “ 地球温暖化の日本への影響２００１”
概要 28 May . 2007 地球環境•国際協力.
http://www.env.go.jp/press/file_view.php3?serial=2223&hou_id=2598
Wikipedia “地球温暖化” ウィキペディアフリー百科事典. 28 May. 2007
http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/地球温暖化
Wikipedia “Global warming” wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
28 May. 2007 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_warming
Recent Student Paragraphs: Kenji Motobayashi
Paragraph Title: Article 9
The government and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) should not lift the constitutional ban on collective defense in the near future. The Japan’s collective defense is banned by the government interpretation of the Constitution's war-renouncing Article 9. As a matter of fact, many Japanese are negative about the right to collective defense. According to a survey, held on May 12-13, 62% of Japanese agree to ban collective defense. They are concerned that if the ban is lifted, the Self Defense Force (SDF) will be more actively and deeply involved in U.S. military operations overseas. Despite the citizens’ position, the Government and the LDP are thinking too further the issue and collective defense. According to Hajime Funada, former chairman of the LDP's research panel on constitutional issues, the majority is thinking not about the decision to change it or not but about how to secure the right to collective defense. All thirteen members of the panel, called by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to debate the use of collective defense, are advocators of Abe’s position to criticize the interpretation for limiting Japan's role in its security arrangement with the United States. Furthermore, according to the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty, Japan isn’t required to defend the U.S. if it’s attacked. Instead of helping to defend the U.S., Japan gave a vast sum and extensive land for U.S. military bases. However, Prime Minister Abe, most notable among conservative politicians, argued that Japan would lose the obligation in wartime if Japan doesn’t change the interpretation so as to allow more military cooperation between Japan and the USA. In conclusion, the Government and LDP should step back and pause for thought, reconsider their options, the amendments, and their broader effects. We should also, as Japanese citizens, make the discussion livelier and take time to think about what Constitution's war-renouncing Article 9 means to us.
Kenji Motobayashi
Bibliography
Yoshida, Reiji. “Collective defense: What it means for Japan.” The Japan Times, May 19, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070519f1.html
Kyodo News. “62% OK with Japan's ban on collective defense.” The Japan Times, May 14, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20070514a2.html
Yoshida, Reiji. “Proponent of rewriting Article 9 still wants limits.” The Japan Times, May 3, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070503f2.html
Nakata, Hiroko. “New panel to debate collective defense.” The Japan Times, April 26, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070426a3.html
The government and the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) should not lift the constitutional ban on collective defense in the near future. The Japan’s collective defense is banned by the government interpretation of the Constitution's war-renouncing Article 9. As a matter of fact, many Japanese are negative about the right to collective defense. According to a survey, held on May 12-13, 62% of Japanese agree to ban collective defense. They are concerned that if the ban is lifted, the Self Defense Force (SDF) will be more actively and deeply involved in U.S. military operations overseas. Despite the citizens’ position, the Government and the LDP are thinking too further the issue and collective defense. According to Hajime Funada, former chairman of the LDP's research panel on constitutional issues, the majority is thinking not about the decision to change it or not but about how to secure the right to collective defense. All thirteen members of the panel, called by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to debate the use of collective defense, are advocators of Abe’s position to criticize the interpretation for limiting Japan's role in its security arrangement with the United States. Furthermore, according to the Japan-U.S. Security Treaty, Japan isn’t required to defend the U.S. if it’s attacked. Instead of helping to defend the U.S., Japan gave a vast sum and extensive land for U.S. military bases. However, Prime Minister Abe, most notable among conservative politicians, argued that Japan would lose the obligation in wartime if Japan doesn’t change the interpretation so as to allow more military cooperation between Japan and the USA. In conclusion, the Government and LDP should step back and pause for thought, reconsider their options, the amendments, and their broader effects. We should also, as Japanese citizens, make the discussion livelier and take time to think about what Constitution's war-renouncing Article 9 means to us.
Kenji Motobayashi
Bibliography
Yoshida, Reiji. “Collective defense: What it means for Japan.” The Japan Times, May 19, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070519f1.html
Kyodo News. “62% OK with Japan's ban on collective defense.” The Japan Times, May 14, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20070514a2.html
Yoshida, Reiji. “Proponent of rewriting Article 9 still wants limits.” The Japan Times, May 3, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070503f2.html
Nakata, Hiroko. “New panel to debate collective defense.” The Japan Times, April 26, 2007.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/print/nn20070426a3.html
Recent Student Paragraphs: Miyuki Takizawa
Paragraph Title: The Hindu Wedding Ceremony
The Hindus attach a lot of importance to their weddings ceremonies, which are very colorful and often extend for several days. The Hindus ensure their ceremonies are gorgeous and invite many people so as to show their status. Wedding rituals vary in different regions and castes, but some rituals are major and common to all Hindus. For example, the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with henna in complicated patterns. it This is called “mehendi” Mehendi is used to make the bride more beautiful and strengthen her love for her husband. In the ceremony, the bride, and groom and their families go through many rituals, but the most important one is walking around the sacred fire and the seven steps. Walking around the sacred fire signifies the bride’s determination to always stand beside her husband. The seven steps signify the beginning of their journey through life together. It also signifies they are legally married. In fact, modern Hindu wedding ceremonies are often much shorter than they used to be and don’t involve all the traditional rituals, but normally involve the sacred fire ritual. Though Hindu wedding ceremonies have been modernized in recent years, common rituals remain and people have respect for these rituals.
Miyuki Takizawa
References
“Hindu wedding from Wikipedia”
Downloaded from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_wedding on Friday, June 1
“Hindu Wedding Rituals”
Downloaded from http://hinduism.about.com/library/weekly/extra/bl-wed.htm on Friday, June 1
“Hindu Tradition-WeddingDetails.com”
Downloaded from http://www.weddingdetails.com/lore/hindu.cfm#rituals on Friday, June 1
The Hindus attach a lot of importance to their weddings ceremonies, which are very colorful and often extend for several days. The Hindus ensure their ceremonies are gorgeous and invite many people so as to show their status. Wedding rituals vary in different regions and castes, but some rituals are major and common to all Hindus. For example, the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with henna in complicated patterns. it This is called “mehendi” Mehendi is used to make the bride more beautiful and strengthen her love for her husband. In the ceremony, the bride, and groom and their families go through many rituals, but the most important one is walking around the sacred fire and the seven steps. Walking around the sacred fire signifies the bride’s determination to always stand beside her husband. The seven steps signify the beginning of their journey through life together. It also signifies they are legally married. In fact, modern Hindu wedding ceremonies are often much shorter than they used to be and don’t involve all the traditional rituals, but normally involve the sacred fire ritual. Though Hindu wedding ceremonies have been modernized in recent years, common rituals remain and people have respect for these rituals.
Miyuki Takizawa
References
“Hindu wedding from Wikipedia”
Downloaded from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_wedding on Friday, June 1
“Hindu Wedding Rituals”
Downloaded from http://hinduism.about.com/library/weekly/extra/bl-wed.htm on Friday, June 1
“Hindu Tradition-WeddingDetails.com”
Downloaded from http://www.weddingdetails.com/lore/hindu.cfm#rituals on Friday, June 1
2007年5月14日月曜日
International Issues and Events
Article title: Dilemma for Indonesians in Timor Leste
Source: Abdhul Kalik
Journal: Jakarta Post(online)
Published: Monday. May 14,2007
Downloaded from: http://www.thejakartapost.com/detailgeneral.asp?fileid=20070513204525&irec=2 on Monday, May 14 at 5.17pm
Indonesian-born residents of Timor Leste feel discriminated against by Timorese since became independent from Indonesia. Indonesian-born residents are unable to vote and must live in Timor Leste for five years without interruption before they can apply for citizenship. Many long-term residents are now considered illegal immigrants, though they have married locals and lived in Timor for many years.
(1) What are some possible solutions to this problem?
(2) What sort of reactions might this article produce in Indonesia or Timor?
(3) What might be some of the reasons/motivations behind the Timorese laws regarding Indonesian-born residents?
Source: Abdhul Kalik
Journal: Jakarta Post(online)
Published: Monday. May 14,2007
Downloaded from: http://www.thejakartapost.com/detailgeneral.asp?fileid=20070513204525&irec=2 on Monday, May 14 at 5.17pm
Indonesian-born residents of Timor Leste feel discriminated against by Timorese since became independent from Indonesia. Indonesian-born residents are unable to vote and must live in Timor Leste for five years without interruption before they can apply for citizenship. Many long-term residents are now considered illegal immigrants, though they have married locals and lived in Timor for many years.
(1) What are some possible solutions to this problem?
(2) What sort of reactions might this article produce in Indonesia or Timor?
(3) What might be some of the reasons/motivations behind the Timorese laws regarding Indonesian-born residents?
International Issues and Events
Article title: Pakistani troops told to shoot Karachi rioters
Source: Reuters and AP
Journal: China Post (online)
Published: Monday. May 14,2007
Downloaded from: http://www.chinapost.com.tw/news/archives/front/2007514/109555.htm on Monday, May 14 at 4.58pm
Thirty-nine people were killed over in Karachi,the capital of Pakistan. Riots broke out on Saturday between pro-government and opposition supporters during competing rallies related to the suspension of Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry by President Gen. Pervez Musharraf.
(1) What has caused the rioting?
(2) What international issues or alliances might the suspension of the Chief Justice and the riots have an influence on?
(3) What has been the response from international leaders to the incidents?
Source: Reuters and AP
Journal: China Post (online)
Published: Monday. May 14,2007
Downloaded from: http://www.chinapost.com.tw/news/archives/front/2007514/109555.htm on Monday, May 14 at 4.58pm
Thirty-nine people were killed over in Karachi,the capital of Pakistan. Riots broke out on Saturday between pro-government and opposition supporters during competing rallies related to the suspension of Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry by President Gen. Pervez Musharraf.
(1) What has caused the rioting?
(2) What international issues or alliances might the suspension of the Chief Justice and the riots have an influence on?
(3) What has been the response from international leaders to the incidents?
2007年5月4日金曜日
Article title: Abe urges charter for 'new Japan'.
Source: Agencies
Journal: Aljazeera online
Published: Thursday, May 3, 2007 at 7:56 Mecca Time, 4:56 GMT
Downloaded from: http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/A01C0809-8BC7-48FC-AA8A-B506B71D69AE.htm on May 4, 2007 at 1:47pm.
At the end of his five nation tour of the Middle East and the 60th anniversary of the current Japanese Constitution, Prime Minister Abe, reasserted his desire to see constitutional amendments made to: 'A bold review of Japan's post-war stance and an in-depth discussion of the constitution for a 'new Japan' is necessary ... to open up a new era... [to work] towards a Japan that instils confidence and pride among its children.' Specifically, the amendments relate to Article Nine ('the pacifist clause') of the 1947 Constiution. The amendments would change Japan's ability to use military force to solve international disputes and maintain a standing army. The Mainichi Shinbun and Nikkei newspapers polls on the issue claim 51% of those surveyed support the changes. The Asahi Shinbun poll claims that 49% would prefer no change, and 33% supporting the change.
Japan has a Self-Defence Forces of 240,000. In 2004-2007, its military expenditure ranked sixth in the world. Japanese SDF have served in Iraq since 2004. In 2006, Japan's Defence Agency was upgraded to a full Ministry.
Abe claims the amendments are necessary for Japan to be an equal partner with the US in international issues.
China and Korea remain suspicious of the proposed changes and the possibility of a renewal in Japanese militarism.
(1) What are the differences between a Self-Defence Force and a standing Army?
(2) What are the differences in the polls run by the Mainichi Shinbun and the Asahi Shinbun? Can you find the original polling results and examine the questions asked and the interpretations of the data made by the editors? What might affect the results and their interpretation?
(3) Why is Article 9 referred to as 'the pacificst clause'?
(4) How would the amendments to the constitution create a 'new Japan'?
(5) Why are the amendments necessary for the next generation of Japanese to feel pride and confidence in Japan?
(6) Why is this news being reported on AlJazeera, do you think?
(7) What purpose did Prime Minister Abe's five nation tour of the Middle East?
(8) Does this news reported in the Middle East have a different 'meaning' or 'resonance' than if it was reported in Japan, China or the USA? Why and how?
Source: Agencies
Journal: Aljazeera online
Published: Thursday, May 3, 2007 at 7:56 Mecca Time, 4:56 GMT
Downloaded from: http://english.aljazeera.net/NR/exeres/A01C0809-8BC7-48FC-AA8A-B506B71D69AE.htm on May 4, 2007 at 1:47pm.
At the end of his five nation tour of the Middle East and the 60th anniversary of the current Japanese Constitution, Prime Minister Abe, reasserted his desire to see constitutional amendments made to: 'A bold review of Japan's post-war stance and an in-depth discussion of the constitution for a 'new Japan' is necessary ... to open up a new era... [to work] towards a Japan that instils confidence and pride among its children.' Specifically, the amendments relate to Article Nine ('the pacifist clause') of the 1947 Constiution. The amendments would change Japan's ability to use military force to solve international disputes and maintain a standing army. The Mainichi Shinbun and Nikkei newspapers polls on the issue claim 51% of those surveyed support the changes. The Asahi Shinbun poll claims that 49% would prefer no change, and 33% supporting the change.
Japan has a Self-Defence Forces of 240,000. In 2004-2007, its military expenditure ranked sixth in the world. Japanese SDF have served in Iraq since 2004. In 2006, Japan's Defence Agency was upgraded to a full Ministry.
Abe claims the amendments are necessary for Japan to be an equal partner with the US in international issues.
China and Korea remain suspicious of the proposed changes and the possibility of a renewal in Japanese militarism.
(1) What are the differences between a Self-Defence Force and a standing Army?
(2) What are the differences in the polls run by the Mainichi Shinbun and the Asahi Shinbun? Can you find the original polling results and examine the questions asked and the interpretations of the data made by the editors? What might affect the results and their interpretation?
(3) Why is Article 9 referred to as 'the pacificst clause'?
(4) How would the amendments to the constitution create a 'new Japan'?
(5) Why are the amendments necessary for the next generation of Japanese to feel pride and confidence in Japan?
(6) Why is this news being reported on AlJazeera, do you think?
(7) What purpose did Prime Minister Abe's five nation tour of the Middle East?
(8) Does this news reported in the Middle East have a different 'meaning' or 'resonance' than if it was reported in Japan, China or the USA? Why and how?
2007年4月27日金曜日
Friday C2: Research Groups for First Semester
Here is the list of the groups you chose today for your Research Project this semester. I'd prefer the groups were roughly even if possible, with at least four members in each group. Try to read around your subject area during Golden Week and use your blog to let the other members of your group know what topics you're thinking about the Research Project. Good luck!
Domestic Issue or Event:
Takako Saito
Chiyono Okazaki
Fumiya Akaishi
Kouichi Satoh
Takumi Motegi
Subject: International Issue or Event
Fumiaki Mizuno
Hiroyuki Imamura
Ayana Abe
Satomi Sekiya
Subject: Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Hiroaki Ohara
Asumi Kato
Yukika Nishimoto
Mai Aoki
Subject: Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Hanako Noumi
Miyuki Muto
Chisa Murohashi
Takamasa Yakushiji
Domestic Issue or Event:
Takako Saito
Chiyono Okazaki
Fumiya Akaishi
Kouichi Satoh
Takumi Motegi
Subject: International Issue or Event
Fumiaki Mizuno
Hiroyuki Imamura
Ayana Abe
Satomi Sekiya
Subject: Japanese Culture, Customs and Traditions
Hiroaki Ohara
Asumi Kato
Yukika Nishimoto
Mai Aoki
Subject: Culture, Customs and Traditions of Another Country or Region
Hanako Noumi
Miyuki Muto
Chisa Murohashi
Takamasa Yakushiji
2007年4月23日月曜日
Subject: Domestic/International Issues and Events
Article title: Japan and China: School children's views
Source: British Broadcasting Company News (author not given)
Journal: BBC online (Asia-Pacific)
Published: Wednesday, 11 April 2007, 13:51 GMT 14:51 UK
Downloaded from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6545085.stm at 9.07am on April 23, 2007.
During Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao's recent visit to Japan, the BBC interviewed school children from China and Japan. This article offers direct comment from five school children (2 Japanese, 3 Chinese) on the relationship between Japan and China. Particular emphasis is placed on the teaching of history and Sino-Japanese relations.
(1) Why would the BBC choose to interview children about Sino-Japanese relations?
(2) Comparing the responses, what might you say about how the children's opinions are formed and informed?
(3) What are your views on Japan and China and the teaching of history? (Consider your own experience at High School).
(4) What do you think this article is aiming to achieve?
(5) Does this article offer a 'fair' representation of the two sides?
(6) Are there any clear differences or similarities between the Chinese and the Japanese children's responses?
(7) Some of the children compare the value of past history and present-day popular culture shared between the two countries. What does this say about the children's world view, if anything?
(8) Some of the children talk about resolving the problems between China and Japan, or mention the idea of forgiveness. What are some of the issues complicating Sino-Japanese relationships at present and what might be some solutions?
Source: British Broadcasting Company News (author not given)
Journal: BBC online (Asia-Pacific)
Published: Wednesday, 11 April 2007, 13:51 GMT 14:51 UK
Downloaded from: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/6545085.stm at 9.07am on April 23, 2007.
During Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao's recent visit to Japan, the BBC interviewed school children from China and Japan. This article offers direct comment from five school children (2 Japanese, 3 Chinese) on the relationship between Japan and China. Particular emphasis is placed on the teaching of history and Sino-Japanese relations.
(1) Why would the BBC choose to interview children about Sino-Japanese relations?
(2) Comparing the responses, what might you say about how the children's opinions are formed and informed?
(3) What are your views on Japan and China and the teaching of history? (Consider your own experience at High School).
(4) What do you think this article is aiming to achieve?
(5) Does this article offer a 'fair' representation of the two sides?
(6) Are there any clear differences or similarities between the Chinese and the Japanese children's responses?
(7) Some of the children compare the value of past history and present-day popular culture shared between the two countries. What does this say about the children's world view, if anything?
(8) Some of the children talk about resolving the problems between China and Japan, or mention the idea of forgiveness. What are some of the issues complicating Sino-Japanese relationships at present and what might be some solutions?
2007年4月18日水曜日
Subject: Domestic Issues and Events
Article title: Japanese Mayor Shot Dead
Source: Reuters
Newspaper: Sydney Morning Herald online
Published: 6:17am, April 18, 2007
Downloaded from http://www.smh.com.au/news/world/japanese-mayor-shot-dead/2007/04/18/1176696867501.html at9.15am on April 18, 2007.
Nagasaki's mayor Icho Ito, aged 61, was shot twice at his campaign office around 8pm. His shooter is alleged to be a senior member of the Yamaguchi-gumi, Tesuya Shiroo, aged 59. Icho Ito died at 2.28am. The shooting is alleged to be in regard to the city's handling of a traffic incident involving Shiroo four years ago. The news screened on national television late last night and was commented on by Prime Minister Abe.
Some questions:
(1) What are the laws governing firearm possession in Japan? How do they compare with those in other countries?
(2) What is the Yamaguchi-gumi?
(3) Was this a politically motivated assassination?
(4) What other shootings have occured in the last ten years similar to this one in Japan or in another country?
(5) How was the shooting represented in papers around the world? What were the differences and similarities?
(6) Is it possible to draw out a comparison/contrast between this shooting and the shootings at Virginia Tech? In what way might you research and compare them, and toward what end with regard to Policy Studies?
Source: Reuters
Newspaper: Sydney Morning Herald online
Published: 6:17am, April 18, 2007
Downloaded from http://www.smh.com.au/news/world/japanese-mayor-shot-dead/2007/04/18/1176696867501.html at9.15am on April 18, 2007.
Nagasaki's mayor Icho Ito, aged 61, was shot twice at his campaign office around 8pm. His shooter is alleged to be a senior member of the Yamaguchi-gumi, Tesuya Shiroo, aged 59. Icho Ito died at 2.28am. The shooting is alleged to be in regard to the city's handling of a traffic incident involving Shiroo four years ago. The news screened on national television late last night and was commented on by Prime Minister Abe.
Some questions:
(1) What are the laws governing firearm possession in Japan? How do they compare with those in other countries?
(2) What is the Yamaguchi-gumi?
(3) Was this a politically motivated assassination?
(4) What other shootings have occured in the last ten years similar to this one in Japan or in another country?
(5) How was the shooting represented in papers around the world? What were the differences and similarities?
(6) Is it possible to draw out a comparison/contrast between this shooting and the shootings at Virginia Tech? In what way might you research and compare them, and toward what end with regard to Policy Studies?
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