The headline of the article sounds "Obama health reforms boosted by key Republican's support". This title refers to the one of the key problems of current political scene in the United States, that is, the comprehensive project of health insurance reform prepared by President Obama. It is very controversial and now, divide both American politicians and US public opinion. This article from 'Times', describes the way that enabled to carry on legislative procedure on bills creating mentioned reform - Mrs Olimpia Snowe, a Republican Senator contrary to her party's stand, voted for the key bill, saying "when history calls, it calls". As I am a partisan, the actions of Mrs Snowe, seems to be quite incomprehensible and really unfair for her party and also - her voters. In my humble opinion, every single politican should be stick to his party manifesto and ought not to present a stand opposite to it. In Polish Parliament, regardless of her party membership, Mrs Snowe would be punished financially and also, probably, have problems with re-election. On the other hand, I cannot omit the problem that mentioned bill concerns -it is the question how to secure healthcare to significant group of US citizens that are not able to buy health insurance. Maybe in this particular case "history called" indeed?
Today's 'The Times' ran the article which triggered off a lively discussion about the warfares in Afghanistan. Italian Ministry of Defence was accused of bribing the Taleban for "keeping" the peace in the Italian teritory. The problem appeared when French soldiers substitued the Italian ones. They didn't know anything about the previous "agreement" and therefore they lost many soldiers immediately after the change of their army. French society is shocked by this news. Italian government denied everything. However 'The Times' asks why Italy during its staying in Afghanistan didn't lose any soldiers.
This problem is very interesting from Polish point of view as well. Our country also keeps a lot of soldiers in Afghanistan and Polish society will be interested in quickly solution of this issue. The headline of the article tells only about French Opposition, but - in my opinion - not only they would like to know the true.
topic: Pupils accused of "sex attack" on girl,13, at public school disco.
In the Dailymail is today an article about pupils from the very sophisticated school, for elite. The incident was happend at the school disco on Saturday night. All people from the school was there. It could be a usual party like many in England, unless a big terrible incidante. Two pupils from the last class wanted to have fun and started to imitated sexual act with the young girl who just started the school. The most shameful is the fact that nobody help her.
I have never heard about as shocking incident as this one. The indifference of the people make me worried about our society and present world. The headline tell us about pupils who are accused, but in my opinion it should be about those who do not care about anyone beside themselfs.
I chose an article "British is the worst place to live in Europe despite our big pay packets" from papers "Daily Mail".http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/index.html > I understood the headline, that British people think that their country is not good place to live in. Living there is not very comfortable even though exists totally different opinion. > This article shows researches about conditions connected to living in Great Britain and other countries. Although Britons have big pay packets, they are not content. They spent lots of money for food, warming house fuel and train travel. They even live less 2 years less than indicates European average. UK workers get the least annual leave and can expect to carry on 6 months longer than for example workers in Spain or France. > Researches compared living in UK to living in other countries in Europe. Great Britain did not come out in these comparisons well. > I think that information from this article relates to our country. Many people departure Poland because they expect better live in UK. According the article living there is not so nice. Britons go to retirement later than workers in Poland. They have less sun hours which have influence on people.s mood. An upkeep and running costs are upper. > After reading the article I have to agree with an author. It results from the topic that Britain is not such paradise and in some situation it is better to live in Poland. Our country is not so bad :)
I read in the ,,Daily Mail" an article entitled ,,British special forces soldier faces war crimes probe for allegedly threatening to kill Taliban prisoner". This headline refers to the investigation in case of alarming event, which took place in Afghanistan. The 25-year-old lance corporal and interpreter, who was serving with the special forces in Afghanistan, have been arrested and accused of war crimes. He was said to have been part of team questioning a Taliban prisoner (believed to have carrying out improvised explosive device attacks against British troops) when, infuriated by lack of response from the prisoner, he drew his pistol and cocked it. Later he shoved the suspec's head down on to the table, pressing the gun into the back of his head as he threatened to kill him. Ill-treatment of prisoners of war, which includes death threats during the investigation, is war crime. Officers from the Military Police's special investigation branch are now investigating if this incident was part of a wider covert policy of using mental torture techniques to extract information from Taliban prisoners, or if it was a singular event. The case would be hugely damaging to the Britis Army, which is already facing the iquiry into the killing of Iraqi civilian, who was beaten to death while in British custody in September 2003. There weren't similar incidents in the Polish Army. There was case of Nangar Khel, when polish soldiers were accused of war crimes, but their crime was shooting the civil village, not an inappriopate treatment of prisoners of war. I think that this soldier should't be severly punished. He actes under strong emotion and, in fact, he didn't prisoner serious wrong. And we should remember, that Talibans treat their prisoners much more cruel.
I forgot link. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1221278/British-special-forces-soldier-faces-war-crimes-probe-allegedly-threatening-kill-Taliban-prisoner.html
While looking for news I came across an interesting information concerning the problem of overweight.
In the title, which is prima facie easy to understand, there is a recommendation that overweight should be protected. The first impression I got from the headline was that overweight could be a way to be healthy and live longer or something similar that could have been discovered recently by scientists but, nothing out of ordinary in that, I was wrong.
Let alone this eye-catching headline, the whole article is really interesting. Not only because of the matter it refers to, but also because it is about discrimination which is - frankly speaking, one of the biggest problems that people face.
Going through the text I found out that there is a new movement that is called "fat-ism" which - as the campaigners say - should be banned on the same ground as race, sex or religion discrimination. In the UK, size is not a protected characteristic under discrimination legislation but does it mean that people who suffer from being fat can be discriminated with impunity?
What staggered me the most was the survey showing that 93% of employers would rather take on a thinner person than a fatter one even if they are equally qualified. Kathryn Szrodecki, who campaigns on behalf of overweight people, said that in the UK fat people were stared at, pointed at, talked about and attacked. With no doubt, they were and are being discriminated all the time. Moreover, they will be still treated worse than those who are "beautiful" because of their good appearance only because of the general stereotype that those "beautiful" are "better".
To make matters worse, it happens not only in the UK.
You can find the article described above on: www.news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8314125.stm
"Tongue stud 'brain fatality risk' " - this is the title of the article that I've read in order to share with you.
This shocking headline just made my blood run cold after having it read. I was wondering what exactly it means. In this interesting article I found out about the risk that people's favourite activity, commonly known as "piercing", can cause.
Reading the text step by step I was informed that a 22-year-old man died in hospital due to the multiple brain abscesses after having his tongue pierced. The whole infection was caused by the bacteria that spread in the bloodstream from the piercing up to the brain.
The article also says that piercing can lead to teeth and oral infections as well as heart diseases. What is more, even the knowledge that people have about the risk that goes in accordance with piercing, it still remains popular. The main reason for its popularity are trends set by celebrities who - as it was said in the article - should rather think twice before putting their health behind fashion.
I truly recommend this article. You can find it here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8302444.stm
“Iran blames west for deadly suicide bombing” This headline relates to the relationship between one of the Islamic nation and the culture and policy of The United States of America and Great Britain and shows the former’s accusations against the latter. The article tells us of the recent act of terrorism in Iran which resulted in the death of the members of Revolutionary Guard. The attack took the lifes of six commanders and thirty-seven other members of the organization. It appears that the main reason which made this attack possible was the failure of the region’s military intelligence and security. Jundallah (soldiers of God), a Sunni group, puts the Baluchistan regime into responsibility. The bomber detonated a explosive belt in the moment which the Revolutionary Guards arrived at a meeting with tribal elders of the region in order to find unity. The most of the wounded had to be transported to hospitals over 150 miles away from the scene. The Revolutionary Guards believe that those who are responsible for the attack are supported by US ant GB and promises response. This attack resulted in the worst loss to the military in years. What is also worth mentioning is that this region, Sistan-Baluchistan province, lies on a drug transit route from Afghanistan and many Iranian security forces were killed in battles with smugglers. This type of problems does not really relate my community and everyday life but I fear our NATO membership might change this lucky situation in a few years. In my opinion, there is too much hate and greed on both sides of this conflict and I think that this situation is unlikely to change because NATO’s policy is too focused on forcing democracy into the eastern countires.
"What have you done with my daughter? Mother of 'honour killing' girl turns on husband in courtroom confrontation"
This headline is very shocking and it drew my attention right off the bat. It refers to a huge problem of our times which is "honour killing" women in Arabic families. It's a very controversial topic mostly because it's veiled in mystery. Not many of such cases see the light of day.
This article tells a story of Hanim Goren ( mother of murdered girl) confronting her husband face to face before the court. She accuses him of killing their daughter, because she fell in love with the wrong guy. Not many women are brave enough to reveal their familly matters. This way they put themselves on danger and become potential victims of revenge. Men in those families administer justice on their own and do not tollerate intervening other people even if it's police or judicature. She claims that her husband killed their daughter after consulting with his brothers. She did that despite of being threatened by him and his attemptions of beating her. Mrs Goren was told not to mention her daughter's name. All girl's belongings were dilapidated. Mr Goren allegedly said "'There will not be anything left inside belonging to Tulay." Mehmet (her husband) denies everything. Mrs Goren admitted parts of her statement to police in February 1999being untrue. However she changed the story afterwards. The trial still continues so the sentence is still unknown.
In our country this problem is not so widespreaded like in for instance England. I personally have never dealled with these kind of matters. We get to hear about them in TV. There is also many books raising this issue. Unfortunatelly people are mostly pretending not to see anything. They let these women struggle on their own. This attitude is very convenient for principals of "honour killing" because it enables them to hide effects of their actions and to let off the consequences.
"Pregnant teenager who fell into eight-year coma after her first dose of heroin loses fight for life"
My first thought of the headline and picture was that the girl is still alive. The articcle is about a girl who died after eight years in coma caused by using heroine for the first time. She was ten weeks pregnant when she experimented with the drug in 2001, sadly her child died after five days from birthday. Despite she had begun breathing on her own and moving her eyelids she died at age 25. I have heard about similar cases in the past, drug problem is global and we should fight it more effective This is very sad and shocking story, don't read it if you are sensitive.
The title of article I’ve chosen is ‘Poland Agrees to Accept U.S. Missile Interceptors’ suggests quite clearly that Poland agrees on U.S. changes in antimissile shield concept. The article is from today’s New York Times. The text regards the most current issues on antimissile shield and the result of U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. visit. Mr. Biden come to Poland to calm down polish authorities after president Obama has revealed new plans about antimissile defense. Polish policymakers who made an agreement with former president felt a bit cheated. We were promised to be an important partner for the U.S. and now our role impairs. Mr. Biden has spent few hours on talks with president Kaczyński and prime minister Tusk. This discussion is said to be constructive. The articles quotes some of new objectives of antimissile shield like for example focusing more on blocking short- and medium-range missiles that Iran already has and is improving. Poland still has time to ratify the latest plan. Is is rumored that Mr. Obama decision to abandon old plan was mainly caused by his willing to improve the U.S. relations with Russia however he strongly denies and explain this choice as more up-to-date, safer and more efficient. The article also present next places to visit by Mr. Biden like Hungary or Czech Republic. All in all I am quite glad that the first agreement failed. I am not keen on dividing countries into U.S. friendly and Russia friendly. The former plan may trigger conflict and exacerbate the ambience in Europe.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1222511/Muslim-student-18-banned-college-refuses-remove-burka.html Muslim student, 18, banned from college because she refuses to remove her burkha
The headline says that Muslim students cannot practice their religion, just because some rules say so. It looks like discrimination, because why that girl cannot wear burkha while someone else can have a cross on her/his chest, as a symbol of his/her religion. The article shows a situation when the Muslim student is banned from college just because of her burkha. Teachers explain that situation, by saying that they have bad and hampered contact with such student. There is also the argument that it makes the school less secure. 'We are also determined to provide a safe environment for all our students. Central to this is that all members of the college community should be identifiable at all times- says one of the teachers. Relating to my experience, I have never been in similar situation. Unfortunately, I think that polish schools are not prepared for such problems. As a nation, we don't tolerate different cultures and religions, there are no rules connected with these topics and also teachers at schools are not qualified to cope with such problems. I have no hesitation in saying that polish culture discourage foreigners from coming to Poland. I didn't notice anything like that in our schools but I think that it is caused by little percentage of people who practice their religion. In my opinion, that girl shouldn't be banned from school because every democratic country has a constitution which assures the freedom of religion. I understand that there can be some problems connected with specific clothes but there should be no problem with adapting to the new situation and finding a compromise.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1222546/Muscle-bound-boy-record-breaker-Five-year-old-bodybuilder-record-books-TV-stunt.html The five-year-old with a six pack: Child bodybuilder in record books after TV stunt.
I red an article in a todays dailymail about a five-year-old boy named Giuliano. This boy has now his own place in the Guiness Book of Records after performing an incredible pysical stunt.
He was entered to the rekord books after performing the fastest ever 10m hand walk with a wiaght ball between his legs to the delight of the studio audience. He astonished audience and the judges on an Italian TV show and was entered to record books earlier this year.
This little boy has been training since he was two in Italy where he was born and lives with his family. As his father says Giuliano has been waching his father training since he was born, because he has been taken with him to the gym. He also says that there is no danger in his son's training because he trianed himself hard whole life and didn't get any harm.
In my opinion this kid is amazing. He looks like he was an adult strongman. He has perfectly built body and every single muscle is marked. This kind of perfect outlook is rarely seen among grown-ups, so when five-year-old looks like that it is really shocking. I just hope that in future he won't have any helth problems, specialy with his spine.
Newest front page article from the www.timesonline.co.uk is about Sunday' huge terrorist attack in capital of Iraq, in which died at least 132 people and moreover another 600 were wounded in this biggest attack on Baghdad fot two monts.
In my opinion the war in this country was very wild and wolly Bush' Administration idea. It seems to me that this conflict had to become, but I think that main problem was born in approximately about half year later from the day of beginng this Iraq invasion.
I think similary like senator John McCain that in this "war" goverment of the U.S.A. should send much more soldiers and give bigger money to fast finish this bad conflict.
Republic of Poland was always a big friend our great Uncle from America, but in last period of our contacts we felt that the USA goverment and democratic president Barack Hussein Obama didn't treat as well as though Poland treat the U.S.A., something was wrong (lack of "first league" USA polictics on Westerplatte or negative decision about localisation part of shield in countries like Poland and Czech Republic in very symbolic for Polish people day - 17 September - the day of Soviet agression of Poland) ,otherweise in my opinion this Irqa conflict isn't our war, we don't have any profits from this conflict, we just have human drama and wifes and children who will never see theirs family member again.
It seems to me that series of attacks will be occur in Iraq increasingly - at least from the date of electcions in January of next year.
When I read headline of this article I thougt that this is another background to retrie from Irqa or perhaps concentrate much more in economic, medical or educational help than fight with the terrorist by American soldiers. The Irqa nation should understoond that no-one else above themselves can finished this conflict in human way.
Leading bishops 'ready to quit Church of England and join the Pope' The headline of this article gives a straight information about the new trend in Anglicans Church. It may make a reader shocked because all movements between the religions and changes in their doctrine are rarely to be noticed nowadays. Actually it doesn’t concern the Polish religious state but it may show some new tendency in this matter.
The main point of the article is about an offer, not official yet, of the Catholic Church to engage the clergy, believers and maybe even a organization of the Church of England. Surprisingly, it was found very euphoric by the leading bishops of the Anglicans church. It may be called even a rebellion. It’s caused by the new liberal influences in the Church of England, for instance consecration of women bishops and acceptance of gay clergy which are unacceptable for some of the Anglicans’ leaders.
As I said at the beginning, it’s not very important for the Polish because of very little relation between this two Churches in our country. However it may have much bigger effect globally giving a chance to the way of unifying all the Christian believes. As it was said in the article, it could be one of the biggest events in the Church history during the reformation.
From my point of view all ideas of enlarging community, no matter if it is political, ideological or religious are worthy to support. Personally I’m not interested in any of the Church transformations but overthrowing the biblical ‘Babel’s Tower’ is very big step in human community
"Girls accept gun running and rape as price of joining violent male gangs"
The title concerns a social problem referring to groups of teenage girls in the UK. It shows certain things that girls accept to do in order to join a gang.
The article itself describes this awful fact. Teenage girls who want to join a male gang are forced to have sex, as well as to smuggle knives, grugs and weapon. This is the conclusion of a research carried out by British police and charitity oragnizations. Some of the girls are not even 13. They join gangs, in order to bring up their social position or when they want to be protected. There is no doubt, that subordinate to the leaders of these criminal groups, they are being taken advantage of by them. In the beginning of their joining to the group they are said that they have to have sex with the boss. However, it turns out after a certain time, that they must have sex with more men. What is also shocking is that they do not regard these facts as violating at all. In the last few years the problem has grown to a really big size. The officials say that they are going to deal more with the matter and also that more visits to the parents will be organised.
I think that this problem doesn't apply to my country. The children in Poland don't have such problem because the parents have probably more care over them. Anyway, I have never noticed anything similar in my surroundings. No one told me about anything like that as well.
In my opinion, the whole matter is very sad and disgusting. These children are really hurt and it will be hard to help them to come back to normal life. I can't imagine how one can be so cruel and evil to take advantage of young and defenceless person. On the other hand, I don't understand why the girls want to join a gang. I hope that this problem will be somehow solved in the future.
This title refers to the serious problem which is the signature by Czech Republic the treaty from Lisbon, and concern exactly at the checking his agreement with the Constitution of Czech by The Czech Constitutional Court.
Generally whole article is concentrated on the impasse caused by attitude of the eurosceptic Czech President. In this article is clearly underlined the negative position of Vaclav Klaus to the treaty. He believes that decision contained in Lisbon Treaty will create one superstate, where is no place Czech sovereignty. It worth to say that the Czech Republic is already the only country which don’t ratify the treaty, making in this way that the reform of EU is impossible. That is why the future of EU is lying in competence of The Czech Constitutional Court and his judgement (because it depend on this judgement that Vaclav Klaus will sign the treaty or not).
In this article was touched, in my opinion, serious problem relating the future of EU and the same all country-membership of this structure, Poland too. It is know that certain decisions of the treaty can arose some controversies, however it seems that the reform of EU is necessary, not only for EU but especially for countries. Because it is that the countries create, make European Union.
Lord Mandelson sets date for blocking filesharers' internet connections
The headline of this article caught my attention so I decided to write about it. It gives information about the UK government plans to cut off illegal filesharers from the internet connections. The Business Secretary (Lord Mandelson) warned that the times of illegal filesharing without consequences end when new law will come into force. The government plan is directed to persistent offenders and consist of two-stage. Firstly people will get the warning letters and in the last resort they will be disconnected. Of course everyone will have a right to appeal and will be informed in advance about internet suspension. I think that this proposal has advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand it could be an excellent way to fight against piracy and to protect intellectual property rights. But on the other hand someone can say that it is human right infringement and the cut-off is too severe penalty. In my opinion it is important to give customers fair legal hearing before their internet supplier will be required to take any action against their own clients. In France similar regulations has been implemented and approved.
The Guardian released on 30th of October the article that the ex-Prime Minister of UK hopes to be nominated as a first sitting president of European Council, but his chances seem to be dwindling as neither Nikolas Sarkozy, the French president, nor Angela Markel, the German chancellor, are likely to back him. Continent's centre-right leaders want one of their own folks to fill the post. It makes no diffrence that the Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi remains his strongest supporter. On Wednesday during the meeting held in Palais de Elysees, Paris, EU leaders discussed this matter. In Brussels, Jean-David Levitte, Sarkozy's foreign affairs adviser, presented French point of view. He pointed out that what's disadvantageous is the fact that UK is not in the euro area not in the Schengen. In addition he said that they should expect a contender who would be not a figure but actually a chairman who would represent UE on the world stage. But even in his own country Blair's got little support. The British public seems to forget that it would be obviously in their own national interest. Nevertheless it doesn't mean that Blair is not going to struggle to take up this position. We may be almost positive about it. But are you actually wondering why it is so vibrant in this particular moment? It's because the Czech are to ratify the Lisbon treaty after their claims have been included. So it's rather certain that we're to hear more about it in very near future.
"Hallowe’en is the devil’s work, Catholic church warns parents"
I picked this headline,because today is the Halloween and everybody is talking about it,so I thought it would be interesting.And the title is catchy!Everyone knows this "holiday" and realize that this is just an amusement.But maybe not the Catholic Church.How I understand the headline?For me it is just another provocation and a way to catch our eyes.Fewer and fewer people are ardently attend church every Sunday but more and more countries,even very catholic like Spain and Italy,start to celebrate the Halloween.It is,in Catholic Church's mind, a real threat for them.And this is why this article came into existence.Everybody knows that children are the most important for their parents, so the Church authorities took advantage of this and called the Halloween the devil's work.This holiday is very popular especially among the youngest and these young people are very important for the Church - they are their future flock. The metter of this article is just funny for me. The Vatican and other Church executives try to convince us that Halloween is a "pagan festival" and little children wearing skeleton suits, dressing up as vampires, witches or goblins or slapping on fake blood are provoking the wrath of God by attending a celebration akin to a Black Mass. What is more they are persuading us that this is not far removed from communing with the Devil. They claim that parents, who allowed their kids to go to the Halloween parties,are doing very wrong,because this fun has an undercurrent of occultism and is absolutely anti-Christian. Parents should be aware of this and try to direct the meaning of the feast towards wholesomeness and beauty rather than terror, fear and death. The Catholic Church believe that this holiday is diverting children's attention from tommorow All Saints Day and Monday's All Souls Day,so they decided to hold a prayer vigil tonight and the Paris archdiocese’s idea of having children play a lucky dip dubbed “Holywins” instead. For me this is an absurd.In our country Halloween isn't as popular as in the USA or Great Britain and I think it is a pity.In Poland this holiday is widespread among students,who are having fun in clubs,dressed up scary.But there is no traditon of Halloween. Our country is very catholic too,so I think that this is the reason why we are not celebrating the Halloween. Polish church authorities have the same opinion on the topic as Vatican.But it is not a surprise,because Poland is a very conservative and traditional country and everything and everybody,who is different from accepted standard, is wrong.It would be great if we could celebrate the Halloween in our country.I think I wouldn't be the one who would joined the party.But in Poland it is impossible,because immediately someone would say it is a scandal that we are worshiping a Satan.It is sad,but it is true. In my opinion this article wouldn't change anything.The Halloween is so deep-seated in America's tradition and in American's minds that anyone can change it and make them stop doing it.What is more I don't agree with Catholic Church that Halloween is the devil's work.No! It is just a game that make no harm. It is just a one day in year that children can go out,meet their friends and have fun with them. The fact that they are dressed up as witches and skeletons doesn't mean that they not believe in God.I am sure that children don't think about Halloween in these categories. I think that the Church's opinion about Halloween is too far-fetched.
“EU puts €100bn-a-year price on tackling climate change”.
The hedline comes from yesterday’s www.guardian.co.uk news. This article is about both environmental and economical success for europenian countries. When I look at the hedline I see that the EU leaders have already made an agreement about prices on tackling climate change. That means a billions of euro from EU to all of us, because a climate changing is nowadays very important.
During the Copenhagen conference there were an east-west dispute between rich and poorer countries. The thing was that the poorer coutries such as Poland cannot pay as much as for exaple France or Germany. Many leaders thought it will be harmfull for this coutries, and EU won’t demand the same prices from them.
I must admit, that this article is very optimistic to Poland. It is for sure a big success for our government. The leaders decided that every coutry must pay, but only within the bounds of possibility.
For me it is a good news, because when I think of global warming it makes me sick. I’m glad that there is eventually an agreement in this case. We must care about the environment, but without the govenments of the world it will be impossible to make it good.
This article is about new technology, that scientists have developed - artificial nerves. Nowadays the most advenced prosthetic limbs are moved wirelessly by controllers. This invention may cause that the communication between brain and limb will be direct. Other very important thing is those nerves could enable to feel heat, cold and other sensations. As we can see from the headline " it may give" so it's still under testing and trials but there are hopes that it will be available in 10 years.
This invention gives hope for normal life to many people with artificial limbs. They could be able to do more complex movements, feel grip pressure becouse now they must observe if it's properly. I must admit that any of people i know have arificial part of body. But life's unpredictable so we don't know if this won't be some day also our worry. It's something great that new techologies are able to improve and make life much more easlier especially when it relates to people with such problem like this.
"University drop-out rates and graduate earings are to be tagged."
This article comes from today's guardian.co.uk and provides readers with some information about a new policy concerning students in the UK, which will be modelled on food-labelling system and is said to be a consumer revolution in higher education.
Even the title of a article alone reveals some negative prospects of students' previous situation and problems connected with their studies. This text announces a wind of change in higher education-now students are to be given better information about quality of courses before starting the degree. According to this programme students should be treated more as paying coustomers, so that they should now for what they pay for before they embark on a degree. they should be provide with a wide range of information including, for instance,drop-out rates, future graduate's earings or the number of contact hours with tutors. It is a kind of answer to a deabate between universities and National Union of Students. Universities are lobbying to be charge of more in top-up fees to increase their income. Students are worrying how their fees are spent.
When it comes to our "market of knowledge" I must confess that I am of the opinion that this kind of change can be efficient in our country too. By clearly labelling each course, students will have more ralistic expectations about their future chances in successful work career. Certanity about for what we are pay for can be raised only by tagging goods properly.
However, I think we should remember that education cannot be simply treated like other services on the market because of it specific role in our community.
Pirates 'may free British yacht couple for £100,000'
This article ia about British couple, which was kidnapped one week ago by Somalian pirates. They wanted huge amount of money (4 mln £) as a ransome. Now goverment and special organisation conducting negotiations with kidnappers.
For me, it's terrible situation, especially for the family of Paul and Rachel Chandler. Nowadays it;s really hard to imagine, that pirates still exist. What is more, it wasn't first example of their "activity". A few months ago huge tanker ship with petroleum was kidnapped also by Somalian pirates.
International community is not tolerating it. some powerful countries, like USA, China and Russia sent destroyers and aircraft carriers to protect civil ships against pirates. But, as we can see it was uneffected. In my opinion, UN should send a mission to Somalia. Rebuild goverment and law system. It won't be simple, but is's the best way to eliminate pirates from India Ocean.
The title of an article I've chosen is "Somali pirate ransoms 'could fund terrorists'". It was published on www.guardian.co.uk this morning.
The article is about the problem of the piracy acts, which are getting more and more frequent, especially near Somalia. A few years ago piracy seemed to be only a topic of legends, but unfortunately it's materialized recently.
According to that, there is a problem of ransoms paid to the abductors, which are probably intended for terrorism. That's the reason why a seniot NATO adviser on piracy proposed to investigate the connections between Somali pirates and al-Quaida.
What is interesting, if there would be a link between hijackers and terririst groups established, giving a ransom to pirates would be considered as funding terrorism and would be forbiden. There are already some actions connected with this problem taken in the British Parliment.
Is this topic related to our country? I suppose that nowadays there isn't a huge danger of ships hijackers on Baltic Sea, but as it turned out - piracy is not a myth any more.
In my opinion, the topic of piracy is very interesting as one of the most dangerous and alarming form of terrorism nowadays. It is also a form of financing further crimes.
"Growth in Chinese manufactory" http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8336695.stm This article refers to rapid reconstruction of Chinese industry after time of recesion. It is faster than in West-european country but Author suggests that visible growth in Chinese manufactory is effect of government's direct investition. I chose this article because of it connection with Polish and World industry - China has one of the biggest exporter factors on the globe and it influences other economies. It is also connected with problem of protecting human rights in China. In my opinion author is right - you can not deny an immediate growth in Chinese economy but it is not based on free market rules - it is stimulated by goverment and its' investitions to influence world economy. Katarzyna Mikołajczyk
http://www.newsweek.com/id/215304 A few days ago I came across on a quite interesting article in Newsweek, concernig today's the most important issue - the economic crisis. Its title - "The Real Emerging Market" made me feel that we, as a society and the whole world, are on a good way to overcome that situation, however, the article shows a quite different idea of solving that difficult problem and gives us impression that indeed, it can be done. The article describes a growing power of women and how it influences today's market. Women's place in the world has risen, they earn more that before and as a consequence, they spend more, too. Although it might not sounds terrific, but as a matter of fact it can have a huge impact on ours nowaday's situation. "There's a wide body of research to suggest that women's spending patterns may be exactly what the world needs at this moment." That is the main idea of the article. Women spend their wages in a diffrent way than men. It is said that women are more oriented on spending money whitin sectors such as health and education, and that they spend it in a more sensible way. They are not as keen as men on investing on risky business decisions. The topic is quite an issue and it concerns everybody, our country too. It gives a hint which sectors should recieve more attention in order to improve the situation. When it comes to my opinion, I do really think that women have a power and they have a great impact on today's market and that they can "heal" it. Our investment in the economic security of women can make that the power which women are investing can result in sustainable economic growth and security. Paweł Twarowski
Looking at that specific headline we can easily tell what the article is about. It gets straight to the point from the very beginning and gives a brief information about what article contains. First thought I had while reading the headline is that people finally look from a different point of view at those who download music illegally. I can also say that it turns out that potential downloader is not the only one to blame for the bad condition of the music industry.
After reading the article itself I can conclude that my understanding of the subject was quiet right. In the text we can find an interpretation of the latest research connected with downloading music from the internet. I turns out that downloaders are better clients of music companies than those who declare being an enemy of downloading. Article also includes opinions and comments of specialists and musicians. I'm sure that it is giving readers a chance to see who is really against downloading and decide whether it is really a conscious stealing. The text also outlines the problem of the Government's inactive attitude to the problem.
Relating this issue to the situation in my country or my closest community I can tell that downloading from the internet became very popular and in some way it came as a result of prices and global access to modifying and sharing files.
From my point of view that kind of behaviour is completely against the law. I have never do the downloading myself but I like the idea of sharing files that easy and I have never refuse to use some of my friends downloaded music. It is hard for me to end the dispute connected with the subject on one of the sides.
I think that headline of this article should be shocking but nowadays very often we can see this kind of headlines in newspapers. Terrorist attacks are very common apparitions, especially in Pakistan. That's why I think that this kind of headlines aren't something new.
The article as I said is about terrorist attack in Rawalpindi. It was aimed in Pakistan army. 30 people died but not only soldiers. The explosion was near the bank and civil people also were victims. Statements of witnesses and victims are shocking and poignant.
Fortunately in Poland this kind of terrorist attacks aren't happen. But our soldiers who were send in Irak very often are victims of these violent events. I think that is a matter of time that this kind of attacks hit our country. I hope that it won't happen but we should be prepare for that.
In my opinion of article isn't important because it only shows what happened in objective way. I chose this article because I think that this is common and serious problem in our world. It is a global problem. I hate violent and it is terrifying that people have fighting for years. If we don't do anything, it will be disaster.
"Dignitas" clinic earns lot of money on "suicide tourism". Swiss goverment is going to crack down this process by restrictions in law, conected with assisted suicide. They heve prepared two options nad now they are going to chose one of them.
In Poland assisted suicide is forbidden. Lots of people wants such a possibility here, and they give Switzerland as an example. However cases, that "victim" of assisted suicide wasn`t terminally ill, are used by opponents of euthanasia. This discusion is very hot, and it might be even more, because more and more people gets lonely for last years of their lifes - if they`ll get terminally ill, some part of them might be too scared to wait for dead. And some people just dont want to live in pain, waiting for their last breath.
in Switzerland - wich is kind of federal state, every state have made own law - regulation of euthanasia. Now the Justice Minister wants to make the same rules for all country. Person who wants to make assisted suicide will heve to get two medical diagnoses, that he`s terminally ill. It should takes more time than now. Decision should be fully aware of patients options.
Because of that kind of regulation, it won`t be possible any more to cross the border and few days later commit a suicide with help of organisation like "Dignitas". It may cause trouble for this clinic, because about 30% of their "clients" are from abroad.
In Poland discusion about euthanasia stil last. Switzerland is the first country in Europe, that faced this problem. I think now we have to observe, how they will solve it.
I dont think that assisted suicide should be forbidden. Sometimes it can be much more humane solution, wich helps to avoid lots of pain and sadness. But I think also, that it should be stictly regulated and controlled. Propositions of swiss Justice Minister seems to be reasonable. Maybe we should observe how it`ll be working in Switzerland.
I`m sure we have to talk about this problem. If we`ll pretend, that it doesn`t egsist, it can mean more people end their lives violently
Round-the-world sailor Laura Dekker, 13, confined to port over safety fears
I had scanned that case before so when I saw the title on the website I decided to write about it. I read in “The Times” article about Laura Dekker, 14, who wants sail around the world alone in the boat.. Her parents, also sailors, are divorced and they have different opinions about daughter's decision. Her father supports the attempt, but her mother does not.
Laura was planning the round-the-world trip for three years and hoped that she could start her it at 1 September 2009. But the voyage was blocked by a Dutch court on 28 August. The judge, Mirjam Oostendorp, asked how the trip would affect her emotionally and psychologically. Also there isn't any guarantee for her safety and continuation of her school education.
In my opinion the judge has a right to not allow Laura sail around the world alone. I don't have any knowledge about sailing, but I think that for 14 years old girl it isn't the best idea to spend two years alone on the seas or oceans. I also wondering about her father and his support for her voyage, because it's really strange that he wants to his daughter risks her life for “discover the world” on the boat.
Karolina Grabarek (I'm writing from my brother's account)
'Classroom apartheid: Teachers who were afraid to discipline thuggish minority of Asian pupils for fear of being branded racist'
This headline clearly informs us what is the article about. Namely, it brings up the problem of English teachers’ leniency for the aggressive behaviour of Asian pupils, which was caused by their fear of being treated as racists and which leaded to the tragedy. Paradoxically, the word ‘apartheid’ means here the discrimination of white, not black or yellow race.
Henry Webster, the pupil of Ridgeway School in Swindon, was attacked by 12 Asian teenage thugs from the gang called ‘Asian Invasion’, who were also the pupils of this school, outside the school tennis courts in January 2007. Henry was punched, kicked and hit repeatedly on the head with a claw hammer causing sustained brain damage. The thugs have all been jailed, however Henry’s parents think that not all the guilty was punished and have now brought a civil action against Ridgeway seeking compensation of up to £1 million.
Parents, who witnessed in this case, said that Asian pupils were treated by teachers in a privileged way, compared with their white fellow - students. For instance, Alistair (a white boy), who got into a fight with a member of the 'Asian Invasion', received a longer suspension than his opponent. What’s more, they were not being punished for wearing hoodies instead of uniforms and for listening to music on their mobile phones at school. When two boys was set upon by older Asian pupils wearing knuckledusters in front of the school, teachers stood and watched. They tried to justify their behaviour claiming that they could not intervene for insurance because the incident did not occur within the school grounds.
Fortunately, I have never met with such a problem in any school I attended. I haven’t also heard about occuring similar situation in Poland. Nevertheless, in my opinion, it is a very serious problem which shows that we shouldn’t exaggerate in any way, when it comes to the issue of races. White people ought not to discriminate anybody bacause of the colour of his/her skin, but on the other hand, we cannot look indulgently at other races’ misbehaviour and their persecution of white race. Nowadays racism is becoming more and more rare, but it should be considered if the problem brought up in this article is not becoming more frequent phenomenon.
First of All, I would like to mention that I picked article form the Daily Mail. The top headline of my artilce is: "Two women City high-flyers 'hounded from bank for not being male or Japanese' sue for £3million" (and more aobut this story - "'Breasts like honkers' jibe at City bank: Sacked women sue 'sexist' Japanese firm for £3m"). Well I understand this headline in this way – there were two women, working for big financial institution, which were fired because of hers race and sex. After reading of the text occurred that I was right in my thoughts. Both women worked for japanese Nomura Bank. The situation was specific because the Nomura Bank purchased the Lehman Brothers after their collapse in the economic crisis and Miss Murphy, a senior analyst earning £55,000 a year, and Anna Francis, 37, a director on £250,000 including bonus, had worked in Asian equities sales at Lehman Brothers in Canary Wharf before the bank collapsed in September last year. The two women moved to Nomura as part of a buyout by the Japanese bank and expected equally prominent roles. When they started to work for the bank they claim that they were ridiculed by Japanese bosses at Nomura Bank in the City. What is more, they claim sexist Japanese bosses withheld work and fired them because they were female and non-Japanese. Each woman is suing Nomura for sex and race discrimination and unfair dismissal. Miss Murphy is also alleging sexual harassment. They are each seeking £1.5 million compensation for loss of earnings and injury to feelings. Nomura strenuously denies the allegations. The Nomura said that that it acted fairly in the dismissal of Anna Francis and Maureen Murphy by reason of redundancy as part of a wider reorganisation following the Lehman Brothers acquisition. And refute argument of race and sex discrimination saying that Nomura have over 77 different nationalities in the London office alone and have been named in the Times Top 50 places for women to work in the UK for three consecutive years. Well it is typical situation in large firms that they prefer male workers because they are more comfortable for employers. Men have no children or sick children so they can go to work all the time, without unexpected leaving. In Poland we have similarly situation. Treating women in discrimination way is normal. During your interview women are asking for marriage and children. If you have one, you probably would not get this job. What is more, Japanese culture is different, they treat their workers like machines or without sole and will creatures. This two europeans women have no slanting eyes. They were different and they did not fit to the Japanese firm. So they have just wanted to get rid of the women. Insulting behavior, offenses in public were just a tool in Japanese bosses hands. The destination was to fired the women. In my opinion ladies have right to sue the bank for £3 million compensation for loss of earnings and injury to feelings. Because unfair treatment is groundless nowadays. Women can also do the job in the highest level and they sex do not disturb in it. So, GO GIRLS !
Gang rape raises questions about bystanders' effect;http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/10/28/california.gang.rape.bystander/index.html This article is trying to find answer why sometimes people are incentive when someone suffers from pain. It tells the story of 15 year old California girl who was raped and beaten by the gang last week. Hundreds of student were witnesses of that crime but none of them decided to help or call the police. Instead of that they took photos and laughed. Now everybody is wonder why didn't anybody to come forward. Psychology and criminology expert say that there may be a variety of reasons why the crime wasn't reported.Most of them accept explanation connected with social phenomenon called bystander effect. Under it:the larger the number of people involved in a situation, the less will get done.It means if you are in a crowd and you look and see that everyone is doing nothing, then doing nothing becomes the norm.Witnesses reinforce each other with the notion that reporting the crime isn't necessary or think another person in the crowd already reported the incident what is mostly caused by diffusion of responsibility among the group.That kind of syndrome may be treated as excuse for crowd apathy but it doesn't change the fact that remaining silent and failing to act when someone is in need isn't normal.We're human beings with the heart and feelings that cannot be hidden when some person is in danger. Not reacting and letting people die is barbarous and ruthless. Nowadays almost everybody has a cell phone so calling police isn't any obstacle to refuse to do it. The problem is our mentality. We're often not taught how to differ good from evil so our perception of the world is one dimensional and what is worse there is nobody to change it. The faster we understand that, the less damage will be done.
Defence chiefs voice anger at 'mixed messages'on Afghanistan from guardian.co.uk
The title of the article I have just read presents the reaction of Uk defence chiefs relating to the news from the battlefront in post-soviet republic of Afghanistan.
The article depicts a present situation in UK concerning the eastern conflict. The heated discussion about stepping up the plans to restrict the number of areas in which British soldiers would be based is growing bigger after the death of 2 british soldiers. So far, UK has lost 232 troops since the war started.
Nevertheless, as the title underlines, the messages on Afghanistan are mixed. Some of chiefs of defence claim, that teh conflict is bound to be the long term success. The others, including public opinion, seem to seem to have opposite meanings.
This topic is essential for British, as well as for Polish people. That is because Polish troops are also involved in the conflict in Afghanistan and our government plans to deploy more soldiers on the battlefront. The problem is that the whole plan of peacekeeping is not possible to be successful. Muslims have a very different culture and each intervention of western countries is regarded as an act of violence.
To sum up, I would like to express my own opinion. As far as I am concerned, 'the war of terrorism', which part is conflict in Afghanistan without a doubt, is one big loss of money, human beings and chance to keep order in the world.
Breckenridge is a small, american, mountain town, situated in Colorado state. It is well-known for its exciting ski slopes and for laid-back, exuberant night life. For this reason, it’s very popular especially among young people, and is going to become even more fashionable. Why? The authorities of Breckenridge decided last month to decriminalize the possession of marijuana and paraphernalia associated with it, such as long rolling papers, a small pipe or a bong. From New Year’s Day there will be no civil or criminal penalties imposed on the owners of that drug. Legalization of the cannabis does not, however, mean that there will be acceptance of indulging in drugs in public places, especially on the slopes. It will remain illegal to buy, sell or grow cannabis and also to display this kind of substances. The police assure that they will be adopting “ zero tolerance” for those driving while high or causing disturbances under the influence of drugs. Since the new regulations has been passed, Breckenridge is being compared with Amsterdam, it is even dubbed “ the Amsterdam of the Rockies”. However, the restrictions connected with legalization of cannabis in Breckenridge are more severe than in Dutch capital. The tourists, especially from Europe, ought to remember that fact to avoid penalties. Breckenridge is the second town in America after Denver to remove all penalties for marijuana possession and the first in history to remove all penalties for paraphernalia.
Wootton Bassett is a small, market town, located in Wiltshire, England. The spot is known for honouring dead british soldiers returning from Afghanistan, paying tribute to their heroism. Islam4UK, an organization identified with extremist movements, such as al-Muhajiroun, plans to arrange a parade in memory of "Muslims that have been murdered in the name of democracy and freedom". It's quite understandable what the people of Wootton Bassett are so upset about. It's still a Christian town, under the reign of the Queen and the folk is just paying homage to those who lost their lives thousands of kilometres away. Not only is it entirely inappropriate by the Muslim minority to act in such a way - it's also what clearly distinguishes the people being able to take good advantage of their rights and freedoms from those who can't do it in a proper way. Enraging the citizens of a country, in which you represent a minority and showing your dissatisfaction with the sorrounding beliefs whilst you decide not to go back where you originally came from and continue to live in this society has to be considered nothing else but foolishness. It's quite comforting that we don't see such islamic organizations undertaking similar actions in Poland - I'd be pretty angry myselft, to be honest. If they believe people are getting "murdered in the name of democracy", they should immidiatelly return to Afghanistan, or another country they originate from. It's quite a hypocrisy to stay under such a hated government, don't You agree?
This headline claims that in North Korea was arrested or kidnapped some American and there are negotiation for release him, but for now there is no compromise. From this article we can know that 28-year-old missionary was arrested as he crossed into the North from China. He had special mission, carrying a letter to Kim Jong Il. But Korean lieder didn't care about his mission and arrested him. From second part of article we can know that he has big chances to leave Korea. There are still negotiating but Phenian planned to release him. When I read articles like this I'm really glad that i live in Europe in democratic country. I'm filled with admiration for what this guy do. I think he is true catholic because he serves his life to help other people, especially suffering in North Korea. He is kind of hero that we need also in our country. In noways people are caring only for their own business and don't care about others. His mission from the beginning was hard and impossible but he had to try. In my opinion this topic is really interesting. It's really helpful that we can read about one man who wanted to fight in his own way with Korean resin. People should know that situation in Korea is dramatical. People who lives there need help and we can't forget about them Story like this help as remember about this country. I hope he will be released and come back to USA.
"Obama health reforms boosted by key Republican's support"
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article6873377.ece?token=null&offset=0&page=1
Sebastian Gajewski wrote:
The headline of the article sounds "Obama health reforms boosted by key Republican's support". This title refers to the one of the key problems of current political scene in the United States, that is, the comprehensive project of health insurance reform prepared by President Obama. It is very controversial and now, divide both American politicians and US public opinion. This article from 'Times', describes the way that enabled to carry on legislative procedure on bills creating mentioned reform - Mrs Olimpia Snowe, a Republican Senator contrary to her party's stand, voted for the key bill, saying "when history calls, it calls". As I am a partisan, the actions of Mrs Snowe, seems to be quite incomprehensible and really unfair for her party and also - her voters. In my humble opinion, every single politican should be stick to his party manifesto and ought not to present a stand opposite to it. In Polish Parliament, regardless of her party membership, Mrs Snowe would be punished financially and also, probably, have problems with re-election. On the other hand, I cannot omit the problem that mentioned bill concerns -it is the question how to secure healthcare to significant group of US citizens that are not able to buy health insurance. Maybe in this particular case "history called" indeed?
"French Opposition demands answers on bribe claim in Sarobi ambush"
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6876691.ece#
Today's 'The Times' ran the article which triggered off a lively discussion about the warfares in Afghanistan. Italian Ministry of Defence was accused of bribing the Taleban for "keeping" the peace in the Italian teritory. The problem appeared when French soldiers substitued the Italian ones. They didn't know anything about the previous "agreement" and therefore they lost many soldiers immediately after the change of their army. French society is shocked by this news. Italian government denied everything. However 'The Times' asks why Italy during its staying in Afghanistan didn't lose any soldiers.
This problem is very interesting from Polish point of view as well.
Our country also keeps a lot of soldiers in Afghanistan and Polish society will be interested in quickly solution of this issue. The headline of the article tells only about French Opposition, but - in my opinion - not only they would like to know the true.
www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1220766/pupils-accused-sex-attack-girl-13-public-school-disco.html
OdpowiedzUsuńtopic: Pupils accused of "sex attack" on girl,13, at public school disco.
In the Dailymail is today an article about pupils from the very sophisticated school, for elite. The incident was happend at the school disco on Saturday night. All people from the school was there. It could be a usual party like many in England, unless a big terrible incidante. Two pupils from the last class wanted to have fun and started to imitated sexual act with the young girl who just started the school. The most shameful is the fact that nobody help her.
I have never heard about as shocking incident as this one. The indifference of the people make me worried about our society and present world.
The headline tell us about pupils who are accused, but in my opinion it should be about those who do not care about anyone beside themselfs.
I chose an article "British is the worst place to live in Europe despite
OdpowiedzUsuńour big pay packets" from papers "Daily
Mail".http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/index.html
> I understood the headline, that British people think that their country
is not good place to live in. Living there is not very comfortable even
though exists totally different opinion.
> This article shows researches about conditions connected to living in
Great Britain and other countries. Although Britons have big pay packets,
they are not content. They spent lots of money for food, warming house fuel
and train travel. They even live less 2 years less than indicates European
average. UK workers get the least annual leave and can expect to carry on 6
months longer than for example workers in Spain or France.
> Researches compared living in UK to living in other countries in Europe.
Great Britain did not come out in these comparisons well.
> I think that information from this article relates to our country. Many
people departure Poland because they expect better live in UK. According
the article living there is not so nice. Britons go to retirement later
than workers in Poland. They have less sun hours which have influence on
people.s mood. An upkeep and running costs are upper.
> After reading the article I have to agree with an author. It results
from the topic that Britain is not such paradise and in some situation it
is better to live in Poland. Our country is not so bad :)
I read in the ,,Daily Mail" an article entitled ,,British special forces soldier faces war crimes probe for allegedly threatening to kill Taliban prisoner". This headline refers to the investigation in case of alarming event, which took place in Afghanistan.
OdpowiedzUsuńThe 25-year-old lance corporal and interpreter, who was serving with the special forces in Afghanistan, have been arrested and accused of war crimes. He was said to have been part of team questioning a Taliban prisoner (believed to have carrying out improvised explosive device attacks against British troops) when, infuriated by lack of response from the prisoner, he drew his pistol and cocked it. Later he shoved the suspec's head down on to the table, pressing the gun into the back of his head as he threatened to kill him. Ill-treatment of prisoners of war, which includes death threats during the investigation, is war crime. Officers from the Military Police's special investigation branch are now investigating if this incident was part of a wider covert policy of using mental torture techniques to extract information from Taliban prisoners, or if it was a singular event.
The case would be hugely damaging to the Britis Army, which is already facing the iquiry into the killing of Iraqi civilian, who was beaten to death while in British custody in September 2003.
There weren't similar incidents in the Polish Army. There was case of Nangar Khel, when polish soldiers were accused of war crimes, but their crime was shooting the civil village, not an inappriopate treatment of prisoners of war.
I think that this soldier should't be severly punished. He actes under strong emotion and, in fact, he didn't prisoner serious wrong. And we should remember, that Talibans treat their prisoners much more cruel.
I forgot link.
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1221278/British-special-forces-soldier-faces-war-crimes-probe-allegedly-threatening-kill-Taliban-prisoner.html
While looking for news I came across an interesting information concerning the problem of overweight.
OdpowiedzUsuńIn the title, which is prima facie easy to understand, there is a recommendation that overweight should be protected.
The first impression I got from the headline was that overweight could be a way to be healthy and live longer or something similar that could have been discovered recently by scientists but, nothing out of ordinary in that, I was wrong.
Let alone this eye-catching headline, the whole article is really interesting. Not only because of the matter it refers to, but also because it is about discrimination which is - frankly speaking, one of the biggest problems that people face.
Going through the text I found out that there is a new movement that is called "fat-ism" which - as the campaigners say - should be banned on the same ground as race, sex or religion discrimination. In the UK, size is not a protected characteristic under discrimination legislation but does it mean that people who suffer from being fat can be discriminated with impunity?
What staggered me the most was the survey showing that 93% of employers would rather take on a thinner person than a fatter one even if they are equally qualified. Kathryn Szrodecki, who campaigns on behalf of overweight people, said that in the UK fat people were stared at, pointed at, talked about and attacked. With no doubt, they were and are being discriminated all the time. Moreover, they will be still treated worse than those who are "beautiful" because of their good appearance only because of the general stereotype that those "beautiful" are "better".
To make matters worse, it happens not only in the UK.
You can find the article described above on: www.news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8314125.stm
Małgosia Robak
My link was wrong, sorry for the mistake:
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8314125.stm
"Tongue stud 'brain fatality risk' " - this is the title of the article that I've read in order to share with you.
OdpowiedzUsuńThis shocking headline just made my blood run cold after having it read. I was wondering what exactly it means. In this interesting article I found out about the risk that people's favourite activity, commonly known as "piercing", can cause.
Reading the text step by step I was informed that a 22-year-old man died in hospital due to the multiple brain abscesses after having his tongue pierced. The whole infection was caused by the bacteria that spread in the bloodstream from the piercing up to the brain.
The article also says that piercing can lead to teeth and oral infections as well as heart diseases. What is more, even the knowledge that people have about the risk that goes in accordance with piercing, it still remains popular. The main reason for its popularity are trends set by celebrities who - as it was said in the article - should rather think twice before putting their health behind fashion.
I truly recommend this article. You can find it here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8302444.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/18/iran-suicide-bomb-revenge-vow
OdpowiedzUsuń“Iran blames west for deadly suicide bombing”
This headline relates to the relationship between one of the Islamic nation and the culture and policy of The United States of America and Great Britain and shows the former’s accusations against the latter.
The article tells us of the recent act of terrorism in Iran which resulted in the death of the members of Revolutionary Guard. The attack took the lifes of six commanders and thirty-seven other members of the organization. It appears that the main reason which made this attack possible was the failure of the region’s military intelligence and security. Jundallah (soldiers of God), a Sunni group, puts the Baluchistan regime into responsibility.
The bomber detonated a explosive belt in the moment which the Revolutionary Guards arrived at a meeting with tribal elders of the region in order to find unity. The most of the wounded had to be transported to hospitals over 150 miles away from the scene.
The Revolutionary Guards believe that those who are responsible for the attack are supported by US ant GB and promises response. This attack resulted in the worst loss to the military in years. What is also worth mentioning is that this region, Sistan-Baluchistan province, lies on a drug transit route from Afghanistan and many Iranian security forces were killed in battles with smugglers.
This type of problems does not really relate my community and everyday life but I fear our NATO membership might change this lucky situation in a few years.
In my opinion, there is too much hate and greed on both sides of this conflict and I think that this situation is unlikely to change because NATO’s policy is too focused on forcing democracy into the eastern countires.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1221915/Mother-honour-killing-girl-turns-husband-dock.html
OdpowiedzUsuń"What have you done with my daughter? Mother of 'honour killing' girl turns on husband in courtroom confrontation"
This headline is very shocking and it drew my attention right off the bat. It refers to a huge problem of our times which is "honour killing" women in Arabic families.
It's a very controversial topic mostly because it's veiled in mystery. Not many of such cases see the light of day.
This article tells a story of Hanim Goren ( mother of murdered girl) confronting her husband face to face before the court. She accuses him of killing their daughter, because she fell in love with the wrong guy. Not many women are brave enough to reveal their familly matters. This way they put themselves on danger and become potential victims of revenge. Men in those families administer justice on their own and do not tollerate intervening other people even if it's police or judicature.
She claims that her husband killed their daughter after consulting with his brothers. She did that despite of being threatened by him and his attemptions of beating her.
Mrs Goren was told not to mention her daughter's name. All girl's belongings were dilapidated. Mr Goren allegedly said "'There will not be anything left inside belonging to Tulay."
Mehmet (her husband) denies everything.
Mrs Goren admitted parts of her statement to police in February 1999being untrue. However she changed the story afterwards.
The trial still continues so the sentence is still unknown.
In our country this problem is not so widespreaded like in for instance England. I personally have never dealled with these kind of matters. We get to hear about them in TV. There is also many books raising this issue. Unfortunatelly people are mostly pretending not to see anything. They let these women struggle on their own. This attitude is very convenient for principals of "honour killing" because it enables them to hide effects of their actions and to let off the consequences.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1221872/Woman-dies-year-heroin-coma-Pregnant-teenager-loses-fight-life.html
OdpowiedzUsuń"Pregnant teenager who fell into eight-year coma after her first dose of heroin loses fight for life"
My first thought of the headline and picture was that the girl is still alive.
The articcle is about a girl who died after eight years in coma caused by using heroine for the first time.
She was ten weeks pregnant when she experimented with the drug in 2001, sadly her child died after five days from birthday.
Despite she had begun breathing on her own and moving her eyelids she died at age 25.
I have heard about similar cases in the past, drug problem is global and we should fight it more effective
This is very sad and shocking story, don't read it if you are sensitive.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/22/world/europe/22biden.html?_r=1&hpw
OdpowiedzUsuńThe title of article I’ve chosen is ‘Poland Agrees to Accept U.S. Missile Interceptors’ suggests quite clearly that Poland agrees on U.S. changes in antimissile shield concept. The article is from today’s New York Times. The text regards the most current issues on antimissile shield and the result of U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. visit. Mr. Biden come to Poland to calm down polish authorities after president Obama has revealed new plans about antimissile defense. Polish policymakers who made an agreement with former president felt a bit cheated. We were promised to be an important partner for the U.S. and now our role impairs. Mr. Biden has spent few hours on talks with president Kaczyński and prime minister Tusk. This discussion is said to be constructive. The articles quotes some of new objectives of antimissile shield like for example focusing more on blocking short- and medium-range missiles that Iran already has and is improving. Poland still has time to ratify the latest plan. Is is rumored that Mr. Obama decision to abandon old plan was mainly caused by his willing to improve the U.S. relations with Russia however he strongly denies and explain this choice as more up-to-date, safer and more efficient. The article also present next places to visit by Mr. Biden like Hungary or Czech Republic.
All in all I am quite glad that the first agreement failed. I am not keen on dividing countries into U.S. friendly and Russia friendly. The former plan may trigger conflict and exacerbate the ambience in Europe.
Piotr Gogol
(writing from my friend's account)
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1222511/Muslim-student-18-banned-college-refuses-remove-burka.html
OdpowiedzUsuńMuslim student, 18, banned from college because she refuses to remove her burkha
The headline says that Muslim students cannot practice their religion, just because some rules say so. It looks like discrimination, because why that girl cannot wear burkha while someone else can have a cross on her/his chest, as a symbol of his/her religion.
The article shows a situation when the Muslim student is banned from college just because of her burkha. Teachers explain that situation, by saying that they have bad and hampered contact with such student. There is also the argument that it makes the school less secure. 'We are also determined to provide a safe environment for all our students. Central to this is that all members of the college community should be identifiable at all times- says one of the teachers.
Relating to my experience, I have never been in similar situation. Unfortunately, I think that polish schools are not prepared for such problems. As a nation, we don't tolerate different cultures and religions, there are no rules connected with these topics and also teachers at schools are not qualified to cope with such problems. I have no hesitation in saying that polish culture discourage foreigners from coming to Poland. I didn't notice anything like that in our schools but I think that it is caused by little percentage of people who practice their religion.
In my opinion, that girl shouldn't be banned from school because every democratic country has a constitution which assures the freedom of religion. I understand that there can be some problems connected with specific clothes but there should be no problem with adapting to the new situation and finding a compromise.
Karolina Balcerzak
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/worldnews/article-1222546/Muscle-bound-boy-record-breaker-Five-year-old-bodybuilder-record-books-TV-stunt.html
OdpowiedzUsuńThe five-year-old with a six pack: Child bodybuilder in record books after TV stunt.
I red an article in a todays dailymail about a five-year-old boy named Giuliano. This boy has now his own place in the Guiness Book of Records after performing an incredible pysical stunt.
He was entered to the rekord books after performing the fastest ever 10m hand walk with a wiaght ball between his legs to the delight of the studio audience. He astonished audience and the judges on an Italian TV show and was entered to record books earlier this year.
This little boy has been training since he was two in Italy where he was born and lives with his family. As his father says Giuliano has been waching his father training since he was born, because he has been taken with him to the gym. He also says that there is no danger in his son's training because he trianed himself hard whole life and didn't get any harm.
In my opinion this kid is amazing. He looks like he was an adult strongman. He has perfectly built body and every single muscle is marked. This kind of perfect outlook is rarely seen among grown-ups, so when five-year-old looks like that it is really shocking. I just hope that in future he won't have any helth problems, specialy with his spine.
Newest front page article from the www.timesonline.co.uk is about Sunday' huge terrorist attack in capital of Iraq, in which died at least 132 people and moreover another 600 were wounded in this biggest attack on Baghdad fot two monts.
OdpowiedzUsuńIn my opinion the war in this country was very wild and wolly Bush' Administration idea. It seems to me that this conflict had to become, but I think that main problem was born in approximately about half year later from the day of beginng this Iraq invasion.
I think similary like senator John McCain that in this "war" goverment of the U.S.A. should send much more soldiers and give bigger money to fast finish this bad conflict.
Republic of Poland was always a big friend our great Uncle from America, but in last period of our contacts we felt that the USA goverment and democratic president Barack Hussein Obama didn't treat as well as though Poland treat the U.S.A., something was wrong (lack of "first league" USA polictics on Westerplatte or negative decision about localisation part of shield in countries like Poland and Czech Republic in very symbolic for Polish people day - 17 September - the day of Soviet agression of Poland) ,otherweise in my opinion this Irqa conflict isn't our war, we don't have any profits from this conflict, we just have human drama and wifes and children who will never see theirs family member again.
It seems to me that series of attacks will be occur in Iraq increasingly - at least from the date of electcions in January of next year.
When I read headline of this article I thougt that this is another background to retrie from Irqa or perhaps concentrate much more in economic, medical or educational help than fight with the terrorist by American soldiers. The Irqa nation should understoond that no-one else above themselves can finished this conflict in human way.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/iraq/article6889476.ece
Leading bishops 'ready to quit Church of England and join the Pope'
OdpowiedzUsuńThe headline of this article gives a straight information about the new trend in Anglicans Church. It may make a reader shocked because all movements between the religions and changes in their doctrine are rarely to be noticed nowadays. Actually it doesn’t concern the Polish religious state but it may show some new tendency in this matter.
The main point of the article is about an offer, not official yet, of the Catholic Church to engage the clergy, believers and maybe even a organization of the Church of England. Surprisingly, it was found very euphoric by the leading bishops of the Anglicans church. It may be called even a rebellion. It’s caused by the new liberal influences in the Church of England, for instance consecration of women bishops and acceptance of gay clergy which are unacceptable for some of the Anglicans’ leaders.
As I said at the beginning, it’s not very important for the Polish because of very little relation between this two Churches in our country. However it may have much bigger effect globally giving a chance to the way of unifying all the Christian believes. As it was said in the article, it could be one of the biggest events in the Church history during the reformation.
From my point of view all ideas of enlarging community, no matter if it is political, ideological or religious are worthy to support. Personally I’m not interested in any of the Church transformations but overthrowing the biblical ‘Babel’s Tower’ is very big step in human community
Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1222819/I-wont-rule-converting-Catholicism-says-Bishop.html
Magdalena Wołosz (I'm writing from my friend's account because I didn't know I need to have mine)
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article6889829.ece
"Girls accept gun running and rape as price of joining violent male gangs"
The title concerns a social problem referring to groups of teenage girls in the UK. It shows certain things that girls accept to do in order to join a gang.
The article itself describes this awful fact. Teenage girls who want to join a male gang are forced to have sex, as well as to smuggle knives, grugs and weapon. This is the conclusion of a research carried out by British police and charitity oragnizations.
Some of the girls are not even 13. They join gangs, in order to bring up their social position or when they want to be protected. There is no doubt, that subordinate to the leaders of these criminal groups, they are being taken advantage of by them.
In the beginning of their joining to the group they are said that they have to have sex with the boss. However, it turns out after a certain time, that they must have sex with more men. What is also shocking is that they do not regard these facts as violating at all.
In the last few years the problem has grown to a really big size. The officials say that they are going to deal more with the matter and also that more visits to the parents will be organised.
I think that this problem doesn't apply to my country. The children in Poland don't have such problem because the parents have probably more care over them. Anyway, I have never noticed anything similar in my surroundings. No one told me about anything like that as well.
In my opinion, the whole matter is very sad and disgusting. These children are really hurt and it will be hard to help them to come back to normal life. I can't imagine how one can be so cruel and evil to take advantage of young and defenceless person. On the other hand, I don't understand why the girls want to join a gang. I hope that this problem will be somehow solved in the future.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/8327190.stm
OdpowiedzUsuń“Czech court to hear Lisbon case.”
This title refers to the serious problem which is the signature by Czech Republic the treaty from Lisbon, and concern exactly at the checking his agreement with the Constitution of Czech by The Czech Constitutional Court.
Generally whole article is concentrated on the impasse caused by attitude of the eurosceptic Czech President. In this article is clearly underlined the negative position of Vaclav Klaus to the treaty. He believes that decision contained in Lisbon Treaty will create one superstate, where is no place Czech sovereignty. It worth to say that the Czech Republic is already the only country which don’t ratify the treaty, making in this way that the reform of EU is impossible. That is why the future of EU is lying in competence of The Czech Constitutional Court and his judgement (because it depend on this judgement that Vaclav Klaus will sign the treaty or not).
In this article was touched, in my opinion, serious problem relating the future of EU and the same all country-membership of this structure, Poland too. It is know that certain decisions of the treaty can arose some controversies, however it seems that the reform of EU is necessary, not only for EU but especially for countries. Because it is that the countries create, make European Union.
Mariusz Rogojsz
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2009/oct/28/mandelson-date-blocking-filesharers-connections
OdpowiedzUsuńLord Mandelson sets date for blocking filesharers' internet connections
The headline of this article caught my attention so I decided to write about it. It gives information about the UK government plans to cut off illegal filesharers from the internet connections.
The Business Secretary (Lord Mandelson) warned that the times of illegal filesharing without consequences end when new law will come into force. The government plan is directed to persistent offenders and consist of two-stage. Firstly people will get the warning letters and in the last resort they will be disconnected. Of course everyone will have a right to appeal and will be informed in advance about internet suspension.
I think that this proposal has advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand it could be an excellent way to fight against piracy and to protect intellectual property rights. But on the other hand someone can say that it is human right infringement and the cut-off is too severe penalty. In my opinion it is important to give customers fair legal hearing before their internet supplier will be required to take any action against their own clients.
In France similar regulations has been implemented and approved.
Grzegorz Toś
www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/oct/29/tony-blair-european-council-presidency
OdpowiedzUsuń'Tony Blair's bid for EU presidency sinks'
The Guardian released on 30th of October the article that the ex-Prime Minister of UK hopes to be nominated as a first sitting president of European Council, but his chances seem to be dwindling as neither Nikolas Sarkozy, the French president, nor Angela Markel, the German chancellor, are likely to back him. Continent's centre-right leaders want one of their own folks to fill the post. It makes no diffrence that the Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi remains his strongest supporter. On Wednesday during the meeting held in Palais de Elysees, Paris, EU leaders discussed this matter. In Brussels, Jean-David Levitte, Sarkozy's foreign affairs adviser, presented French point of view. He pointed out that what's disadvantageous is the fact that UK is not in the euro area not in the Schengen. In addition he said that they should expect a contender who would be not a figure but actually a chairman who would represent UE on the world stage. But even in his own country Blair's got little support. The British public seems to forget that it would be obviously in their own national interest. Nevertheless it doesn't mean that Blair is not going to struggle to take up this position. We may be almost positive about it. But are you actually wondering why it is so vibrant in this particular moment? It's because the Czech are to ratify the Lisbon treaty after their claims have been included. So it's rather certain that we're to hear more about it in very near future.
Przemek Wiśniewski
Ten komentarz został usunięty przez autora.
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article6897422.ece
OdpowiedzUsuń"Hallowe’en is the devil’s work, Catholic church warns parents"
I picked this headline,because today is the Halloween and everybody is talking about it,so I thought it would be interesting.And the title
is catchy!Everyone knows this "holiday" and realize that this is just an amusement.But maybe not the Catholic Church.How I understand
the headline?For me it is just another provocation and a way to catch our eyes.Fewer and fewer people are ardently attend church every
Sunday but more and more countries,even very catholic like Spain and Italy,start to celebrate the Halloween.It is,in Catholic Church's mind,
a real threat for them.And this is why this article came into existence.Everybody knows that children are the most important for their parents,
so the Church authorities took advantage of this and called the Halloween the devil's work.This holiday is very popular especially among
the youngest and these young people are very important for the Church - they are their future flock. The metter of this article is just funny for me.
The Vatican and other Church executives try to convince us that Halloween is a "pagan festival" and little children wearing skeleton suits,
dressing up as vampires, witches or goblins or slapping on fake blood are provoking the wrath of God by attending a celebration akin to a Black Mass.
What is more they are persuading us that this is not far removed from communing with the Devil. They claim that parents, who allowed their
kids to go to the Halloween parties,are doing very wrong,because this fun has an undercurrent of occultism and is absolutely anti-Christian.
Parents should be aware of this and try to direct the meaning of the feast towards wholesomeness and beauty rather than terror, fear and death.
The Catholic Church believe that this holiday is diverting children's attention from tommorow All Saints Day and Monday's All Souls Day,so they
decided to hold a prayer vigil tonight and the Paris archdiocese’s idea of having children play a lucky dip dubbed “Holywins” instead.
For me this is an absurd.In our country Halloween isn't as popular as in the USA or Great Britain and I think it is a pity.In Poland this holiday
is widespread among students,who are having fun in clubs,dressed up scary.But there is no traditon of Halloween. Our country
is very catholic too,so I think that this is the reason why we are not celebrating the Halloween. Polish church authorities have the same opinion on the topic
as Vatican.But it is not a surprise,because Poland is a very conservative and traditional country and everything and everybody,who is different
from accepted standard, is wrong.It would be great if we could celebrate the Halloween in our country.I think I wouldn't be the one who would
joined the party.But in Poland it is impossible,because immediately someone would say it is a scandal that we are worshiping a Satan.It is sad,but it is true.
In my opinion this article wouldn't change anything.The Halloween is so deep-seated in America's tradition and in American's minds that anyone can change it
and make them stop doing it.What is more I don't agree with Catholic Church that Halloween is the devil's work.No! It is just a game that make no harm.
It is just a one day in year that children can go out,meet their friends and have fun with them. The fact that they are dressed up as witches and skeletons
doesn't mean that they not believe in God.I am sure that children don't think about Halloween in these categories. I think that the Church's opinion about
Halloween is too far-fetched.
Magda G to Magdalena Gołębiowska tylko zapomniałam dopisać :)
OdpowiedzUsuńThe article that caught my eye was
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/oct/30/eu-climate-change-funding-deal
“EU puts €100bn-a-year price on tackling climate change”.
The hedline comes from yesterday’s www.guardian.co.uk news. This article is about both environmental and economical success for europenian countries. When I look at the hedline I see that the EU leaders have already made an agreement about prices on tackling climate change. That means a billions of euro from EU to all of us, because a climate changing is nowadays very important.
During the Copenhagen conference there were an east-west dispute between rich and poorer countries. The thing was that the poorer coutries such as Poland cannot pay as much as for exaple France or Germany. Many leaders thought it will be harmfull for this coutries, and EU won’t demand the same prices from them.
I must admit, that this article is very optimistic to Poland. It is for sure a big success for our government. The leaders decided that every coutry must pay, but only within the bounds of possibility.
For me it is a good news, because when I think of global warming it makes me sick. I’m glad that there is eventually an agreement in this case. We must care about the environment, but without the govenments of the world it will be impossible to make it good.
Ada Szyszkowska
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/medicine/article6898134.ece
OdpowiedzUsuń"Plastic nerves may give new limbs feelings"
This article is about new technology, that scientists have developed - artificial nerves. Nowadays the most advenced prosthetic limbs are moved wirelessly by controllers. This invention may cause that the communication between brain and limb will be direct. Other very important thing is those nerves could enable to feel heat, cold and other sensations. As we can see from the headline " it may give" so it's still under testing and trials but there are hopes that it will be available in 10 years.
This invention gives hope for normal life to many people with artificial limbs. They could be able to do more complex movements, feel grip pressure becouse now they must observe if it's properly. I must admit that any of people i know have arificial part of body. But life's unpredictable so we don't know if this won't be some day also our worry.
It's something great that new techologies are able to improve and make life much more easlier especially when it relates to people with such problem like this.
Tomasz Małecki
http://guardian.co.uk/education/2009/now/01/university-dropout-rates
OdpowiedzUsuń"University drop-out rates and graduate earings are to be tagged."
This article comes from today's guardian.co.uk and provides readers with some information about a new policy concerning students in the UK, which will be modelled on food-labelling system and is said to be a consumer revolution in higher education.
Even the title of a article alone reveals some negative prospects of students' previous situation and problems connected with their studies. This text announces a wind of change in higher education-now students are to be given better information about quality of courses before starting the degree. According to this programme students should be treated more as paying coustomers, so that they should now for what they pay for before they embark on a degree. they should be provide with a wide range of information including, for instance,drop-out rates, future graduate's earings or the number of contact hours with tutors. It is a kind of answer to a deabate between universities and National Union of Students. Universities are lobbying to be charge of more in top-up fees to increase their income. Students are worrying how their fees are spent.
When it comes to our "market of knowledge" I must confess that I am of the opinion that this kind of change can be efficient in our country too. By clearly labelling each course, students will have more ralistic expectations about their future chances in successful work career. Certanity about for what we are pay for can be raised only by tagging goods properly.
However, I think we should remember that education cannot be simply treated like other services on the market because of it specific role in our community.
Anna Bogrycewicz
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1224438/Pirates-free-British-yacht-couple-100-000.html
OdpowiedzUsuńPirates 'may free British yacht couple for £100,000'
This article ia about British couple, which was kidnapped one week ago by Somalian pirates. They wanted huge amount of money (4 mln £) as a ransome. Now goverment and special organisation conducting negotiations with kidnappers.
For me, it's terrible situation, especially for the family of Paul and Rachel Chandler. Nowadays it;s really hard to imagine, that pirates still exist. What is more, it wasn't first example of their "activity". A few months ago huge tanker ship with petroleum was kidnapped also by Somalian pirates.
International community is not tolerating it. some powerful countries, like USA, China and Russia sent destroyers and aircraft carriers to protect civil ships against pirates. But, as we can see it was uneffected. In my opinion, UN should send a mission to Somalia. Rebuild goverment and law system. It won't be simple, but is's the best way to eliminate pirates from India Ocean.
Piotr Bulejak
The title of an article I've chosen is "Somali pirate ransoms 'could fund terrorists'". It was published on www.guardian.co.uk this morning.
OdpowiedzUsuńThe article is about the problem of the piracy acts, which are getting more and more frequent, especially near Somalia. A few years ago piracy seemed to be only a topic of legends, but unfortunately it's materialized recently.
According to that, there is a problem of ransoms paid to the abductors, which are probably intended for terrorism. That's the reason why a seniot NATO adviser on piracy proposed to investigate the connections between Somali pirates and al-Quaida.
What is interesting, if there would be a link between hijackers and terririst groups established, giving a ransom to pirates would be considered as funding terrorism and would be forbiden. There are already some actions connected with this problem taken in the British Parliment.
Is this topic related to our country? I suppose that nowadays there isn't a huge danger of ships hijackers on Baltic Sea, but as it turned out - piracy is not a myth any more.
In my opinion, the topic of piracy is very interesting as one of the most dangerous and alarming form of terrorism nowadays. It is also a form of financing further crimes.
"Growth in Chinese manufactory"
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8336695.stm
This article refers to rapid reconstruction of Chinese industry after time of recesion. It is faster than in West-european country but Author suggests that visible growth in Chinese manufactory is effect of government's direct investition.
I chose this article because of it connection with Polish and World industry - China has one of the biggest exporter factors on the globe and it influences other economies. It is also connected with problem of protecting human rights in China.
In my opinion author is right - you can not deny an immediate growth in Chinese economy but it is not based on free market rules - it is stimulated by goverment and its' investitions to influence world economy.
Katarzyna Mikołajczyk
http://www.newsweek.com/id/215304
OdpowiedzUsuńA few days ago I came across on a quite interesting article in Newsweek, concernig today's the most important issue - the economic crisis.
Its title - "The Real Emerging Market" made me feel that we, as a society and the whole world, are on a good way to overcome that situation, however, the article shows a quite different idea of solving that difficult problem and gives us impression that indeed, it can be done.
The article describes a growing power of women and how it influences today's market. Women's place in the world has risen, they earn more that before and as a consequence, they spend more, too. Although it might not sounds terrific, but as a matter of fact it can have a huge impact on ours nowaday's situation. "There's a wide body of research to suggest that women's spending patterns may be exactly what the world needs at this moment." That is the main idea of the article. Women spend their wages in a diffrent way than men. It is said that women are more oriented on spending money whitin sectors such as health and education, and that they spend it in a more sensible way. They are not as keen as men on investing on risky business decisions.
The topic is quite an issue and it concerns everybody, our country too. It gives a hint which sectors should recieve more attention in order to improve the situation.
When it comes to my opinion, I do really think that women have a power and they have a great impact on today's market and that they can "heal" it. Our investment in the economic security of women can make that the power which women are investing can result in sustainable economic growth and security.
Paweł Twarowski
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1224460/Illegal-downloaders-spend-MORE-music-obey-law.html
OdpowiedzUsuńLooking at that specific headline we can easily tell what the article is about. It gets straight to the point from the very beginning and gives a brief information about what article contains. First thought I had while reading the headline is that people finally look from a different point of view at those who download music illegally. I can also say that it turns out that potential downloader is not the only one to blame for the bad condition of the music industry.
After reading the article itself I can conclude that my understanding of the subject was quiet right. In the text we can find an interpretation of the latest research connected with downloading music from the internet. I turns out that downloaders are better clients of music companies than those who declare being an enemy of downloading. Article also includes opinions and comments of specialists and musicians. I'm sure that it is giving readers a chance to see who is really against downloading and decide whether it is really a conscious stealing. The text also outlines the problem of the Government's inactive attitude to the problem.
Relating this issue to the situation in my country or my closest community I can tell that downloading from the internet became very popular and in some way it came as a result of prices and global access to modifying and sharing files.
From my point of view that kind of behaviour is completely against the law. I have never do the downloading myself but I like the idea of sharing files that easy and I have never refuse to use some of my friends downloaded music. It is hard for me to end the dispute connected with the subject on one of the sides.
"Taliban blamed for deadly Rawalpindi bombing"
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/nov/02/pakistan-bombing-rawalpindi-taliban
I think that headline of this article should be shocking but nowadays very often we can see this kind of headlines in newspapers. Terrorist attacks are very common apparitions, especially in Pakistan. That's why I think that this kind of headlines aren't something new.
The article as I said is about terrorist attack in Rawalpindi. It was aimed in Pakistan army. 30 people died but not only soldiers. The explosion was near the bank and civil people also were victims.
Statements of witnesses and victims are shocking and poignant.
Fortunately in Poland this kind of terrorist attacks aren't happen. But our soldiers who were send in Irak very often are victims of these violent events. I think that is a matter of time that this kind of attacks hit our country. I hope that it won't happen but we should be prepare for that.
In my opinion of article isn't important because it only shows what happened in objective way. I chose this article because I think that this is common and serious problem in our world. It is a global problem. I hate violent and it is terrifying that people have fighting for years. If we don't do anything, it will be disaster.
"Swiss crackdown on `suicide tourism` could spell end of Dignitas clinic.
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/life_and_style/health/article6894726.ece
"Dignitas" clinic earns lot of money on "suicide tourism". Swiss goverment is going to crack down this process by restrictions in law, conected with assisted suicide. They heve prepared two options nad now they are going to chose one of them.
In Poland assisted suicide is forbidden. Lots of people wants such a possibility here, and they give Switzerland as an example. However cases, that "victim" of assisted suicide wasn`t terminally ill, are used by opponents of euthanasia. This discusion is very hot, and it might be even more, because more and more people gets lonely for last years of their lifes - if they`ll get terminally ill, some part of them might be too scared to wait for dead. And some people just dont want to live in pain, waiting for their last breath.
in Switzerland - wich is kind of federal state, every state have made own law - regulation of euthanasia. Now the Justice Minister wants to make the same rules for all country. Person who wants to make assisted suicide will heve to get two medical diagnoses, that he`s terminally ill. It should takes more time than now. Decision should be fully aware of patients options.
Because of that kind of regulation, it won`t be possible any more to cross the border and few days later commit a suicide with help of organisation like "Dignitas". It may cause trouble for this clinic, because about 30% of their "clients" are from abroad.
In Poland discusion about euthanasia stil last. Switzerland is the first country in Europe, that faced this problem. I think now we have to observe, how they will solve it.
I dont think that assisted suicide should be forbidden. Sometimes it can be much more humane solution, wich helps to avoid lots of pain and sadness. But I think also, that it should be stictly regulated and controlled. Propositions of swiss Justice Minister seems to be reasonable. Maybe we should observe how it`ll be working in Switzerland.
I`m sure we have to talk about this problem. If we`ll pretend, that it doesn`t egsist, it can mean more people end their lives violently
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/europe/article6897001.ece
OdpowiedzUsuńRound-the-world sailor Laura Dekker, 13, confined to port over safety fears
I had scanned that case before so when I saw the title on the website I decided to write about it.
I read in “The Times” article about Laura Dekker, 14, who wants sail around the world alone in the boat.. Her parents, also sailors, are divorced and they have different opinions about daughter's decision. Her father supports the attempt, but her mother does not.
Laura was planning the round-the-world trip for three years and hoped that she could start her it at 1 September 2009. But the voyage was blocked by a Dutch court on 28 August. The judge, Mirjam Oostendorp, asked how the trip would affect her emotionally and psychologically. Also there isn't any guarantee for her safety and continuation of her school education.
In my opinion the judge has a right to not allow Laura sail around the world alone. I don't have any knowledge about sailing, but I think that for 14 years old girl it isn't the best idea to spend two years alone on the seas or oceans. I also wondering about her father and his support for her voyage, because it's really strange that he wants to his daughter risks her life for “discover the world” on the boat.
Klaudia Zawiślak
Karolina Grabarek (I'm writing from my brother's account)
OdpowiedzUsuń'Classroom apartheid: Teachers who were afraid to discipline thuggish minority of Asian pupils for fear of being branded racist'
This headline clearly informs us what is the article about. Namely, it brings up the problem of English teachers’ leniency for the aggressive behaviour of Asian pupils, which was caused by their fear of being treated as racists and which leaded to the tragedy. Paradoxically, the word ‘apartheid’ means here the discrimination of white, not black or yellow race.
Henry Webster, the pupil of Ridgeway School in Swindon, was attacked by 12 Asian teenage thugs from the gang called ‘Asian Invasion’, who were also the pupils of this school, outside the school tennis courts in January 2007. Henry was punched, kicked and hit repeatedly on the head with a claw hammer causing sustained brain damage. The thugs have all been jailed, however Henry’s parents think that not all the guilty was punished and have now brought a civil action against Ridgeway seeking compensation of up to £1 million.
Parents, who witnessed in this case, said that Asian pupils were treated by teachers in a privileged way, compared with their white fellow - students. For instance, Alistair (a white boy), who got into a fight with a member of the 'Asian Invasion', received a longer suspension than his opponent. What’s more, they were not being punished for wearing hoodies instead of uniforms and for listening to music on their mobile phones at school.
When two boys was set upon by older Asian pupils wearing knuckledusters in front of the school, teachers stood and watched. They tried to justify their behaviour claiming that they could not intervene for insurance because the incident did not occur within the school grounds.
Fortunately, I have never met with such a problem in any school I attended. I haven’t also heard about occuring similar situation in Poland. Nevertheless, in my opinion, it is a very serious problem which shows that we shouldn’t exaggerate in any way, when it comes to the issue of races. White people ought not to discriminate anybody bacause of the colour of his/her skin, but on the other hand, we cannot look indulgently at other races’ misbehaviour and their persecution of white race. Nowadays racism is becoming more and more rare, but it should be considered if the problem brought up in this article is not becoming more frequent phenomenon.
Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1223938/The-classroom-apartheid-teachers-frightened-discipline-thuggish-minority-Asian-pupils-fear-branded-racist.html
ALEKSANDRA BALCERZAK WROTE:
OdpowiedzUsuńFirst of All, I would like to mention that I picked article form the Daily Mail. The top headline of my artilce is: "Two women City high-flyers 'hounded from bank for not being male or Japanese' sue for £3million" (and more aobut this story - "'Breasts like honkers' jibe at City bank: Sacked women sue 'sexist' Japanese firm for £3m").
Well I understand this headline in this way – there were two women, working for big financial institution, which were fired because of hers race and sex. After reading of the text occurred that I was right in my thoughts. Both women worked for japanese Nomura Bank. The situation was specific because the Nomura Bank purchased the Lehman Brothers after their collapse in the economic crisis and Miss Murphy, a senior analyst earning £55,000 a year, and Anna Francis, 37, a director on £250,000 including bonus, had worked in Asian equities sales at Lehman Brothers in Canary Wharf before the bank collapsed in September last year.
The two women moved to Nomura as part of a buyout by the Japanese bank and expected equally prominent roles. When they started to work for the bank they claim that they were ridiculed by Japanese bosses at Nomura Bank in the City.
What is more, they claim sexist Japanese bosses withheld work and fired them because they were female and non-Japanese. Each woman is suing Nomura for sex and race discrimination and unfair dismissal. Miss Murphy is also alleging sexual harassment.
They are each seeking £1.5 million compensation for loss of earnings and injury to feelings. Nomura strenuously denies the allegations.
The Nomura said that that it acted fairly in the dismissal of Anna Francis and Maureen Murphy by reason of redundancy as part of a wider reorganisation following the Lehman Brothers acquisition. And refute argument of race and sex discrimination saying that Nomura have over 77 different nationalities in the London office alone and have been named in the Times Top 50 places for women to work in the UK for three consecutive years.
Well it is typical situation in large firms that they prefer male workers because they are more comfortable for employers. Men have no children or sick children so they can go to work all the time, without unexpected leaving. In Poland we have similarly situation. Treating women in discrimination way is normal. During your interview women are asking for marriage and children. If you have one, you probably would not get this job.
What is more, Japanese culture is different, they treat their workers like machines or without sole and will creatures. This two europeans women have no slanting eyes. They were different and they did not fit to the Japanese firm. So they have just wanted to get rid of the women. Insulting behavior, offenses in public were just a tool in Japanese bosses hands. The destination was to fired the women.
In my opinion ladies have right to sue the bank for £3 million compensation for loss of earnings and injury to feelings. Because unfair treatment is groundless nowadays. Women can also do the job in the highest level and they sex do not disturb in it. So, GO GIRLS !
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1224876/Female-bankers-sue-investment-bank-3bn-sexist-Japanese-bosses-referred-breasts-honkers.html#ixzz0VoBic7Lm
Gang rape raises questions about bystanders' effect;http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/10/28/california.gang.rape.bystander/index.html
OdpowiedzUsuńThis article is trying to find answer why sometimes people are incentive when someone suffers from pain. It tells the story of 15 year old California girl who was raped and beaten by the gang last week. Hundreds of student were witnesses of that crime but none of them decided to help or call the police. Instead of that they took photos and laughed. Now everybody is wonder why didn't anybody to come forward. Psychology and criminology expert say that there may be a variety of reasons why the crime wasn't reported.Most of them accept explanation connected with social phenomenon called bystander effect. Under it:the larger the number of people involved in a situation, the less will get done.It means if you are in a crowd and you look and see that everyone is doing nothing, then doing nothing becomes the norm.Witnesses reinforce each other with the notion that reporting the crime isn't necessary or think another person in the crowd already reported the incident what is mostly caused by diffusion of responsibility among the group.That kind of syndrome may be treated as excuse for crowd apathy but it doesn't change the fact that remaining silent and failing to act when someone is in need isn't normal.We're human beings with the heart and feelings that cannot be hidden when some person is in danger. Not reacting and letting people die is barbarous and ruthless. Nowadays almost everybody has a cell phone so calling police isn't any obstacle to refuse to do it. The problem is our mentality. We're often not taught how to differ good from evil so our perception of the world is one dimensional and what is worse there is nobody to change it. The faster we understand that, the less damage will be done.
Who are you comment? Give at least initials...
OdpowiedzUsuńDefence chiefs voice anger at 'mixed messages'on Afghanistan from guardian.co.uk
OdpowiedzUsuńThe title of the article I have just read presents the reaction of Uk defence chiefs relating to the news from the battlefront in post-soviet republic of Afghanistan.
The article depicts a present situation in UK concerning the eastern conflict. The heated discussion about stepping up the plans to restrict the number of areas in which British soldiers would be based is growing bigger after the death of 2 british soldiers. So far, UK has lost 232 troops since the war started.
Nevertheless, as the title underlines, the messages on Afghanistan are mixed. Some of chiefs of defence claim, that teh conflict is bound to be the long term success. The others, including public opinion, seem to seem to have opposite meanings.
This topic is essential for British, as well as for Polish people. That is because Polish troops are also involved in the conflict in Afghanistan and our government plans to deploy more soldiers on the battlefront. The problem is that the whole plan of peacekeeping is not possible to be successful. Muslims have a very different culture and each intervention of western countries is regarded as an act of violence.
To sum up, I would like to express my own opinion. As far as I am concerned, 'the war of terrorism', which part is conflict in Afghanistan without a doubt, is one big loss of money, human beings and chance to keep order in the world.
Marta Rybacka
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2009/dec/27/cannabis-legal-america-ski-resort
Breckenridge is a small, american, mountain town, situated in Colorado state. It is well-known for its exciting ski slopes and for laid-back, exuberant night life. For this reason, it’s very popular especially among young people, and is going to become even more fashionable. Why? The authorities of Breckenridge decided last month to decriminalize the possession of marijuana and paraphernalia associated with it, such as long rolling papers, a small pipe or a bong. From New Year’s Day there will be no civil or criminal penalties imposed on the owners of that drug. Legalization of the cannabis does not, however, mean that there will be acceptance of indulging in drugs in public places, especially on the slopes. It will remain illegal to buy, sell or grow cannabis and also to display this kind of substances. The police assure that they will be adopting “ zero tolerance” for those driving while high or causing disturbances under the influence of drugs. Since the new regulations has been passed, Breckenridge is being compared with Amsterdam, it is even dubbed “ the Amsterdam of the Rockies”. However, the restrictions connected with legalization of cannabis in Breckenridge are more severe than in Dutch capital. The tourists, especially from Europe, ought to remember that fact to avoid penalties. Breckenridge is the second town in America after Denver to remove all penalties for marijuana possession and the first in history to remove all penalties for paraphernalia.
Outrage as Islamic extremists vow to march through streets of Wootton Bassett
OdpowiedzUsuńhttp://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1240044/Outrage-Islamic-extremists-vow-march-streets-Wootton-Bassett.html
Wootton Bassett is a small, market town, located in Wiltshire, England. The spot is known for honouring dead british soldiers returning from Afghanistan, paying tribute to their heroism. Islam4UK, an organization identified with extremist movements, such as al-Muhajiroun, plans to arrange a parade in memory of "Muslims that have been murdered in the name of democracy and freedom".
It's quite understandable what the people of Wootton Bassett are so upset about. It's still a Christian town, under the reign of the Queen and the folk is just paying homage to those who lost their lives thousands of kilometres away. Not only is it entirely inappropriate by the Muslim minority to act in such a way - it's also what clearly distinguishes the people being able to take good advantage of their rights and freedoms from those who can't do it in a proper way. Enraging the citizens of a country, in which you represent a minority and showing your dissatisfaction with the sorrounding beliefs whilst you decide not to go back where you originally came from and continue to live in this society has to be considered nothing else but foolishness. It's quite comforting that we don't see such islamic organizations undertaking similar actions in Poland - I'd be pretty angry myselft, to be honest. If they believe people are getting "murdered in the name of democracy", they should immidiatelly return to Afghanistan, or another country they originate from. It's quite a hypocrisy to stay under such a hated government, don't You agree?
Rafał Kuźmicki
OdpowiedzUsuńNo deal in release of American from North Korea, State Department says.
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/world/asiapcf/02/05/north.korea.american.relased/index.html
This headline claims that in North Korea was arrested or kidnapped some
American and there are negotiation for release him, but for now there
is no compromise.
From this article we can know that 28-year-old missionary was arrested
as he crossed into the North from China. He had special mission,
carrying a letter to Kim Jong Il. But Korean lieder didn't care about
his mission and arrested him. From second part of article we can know
that he has big chances to leave Korea. There are still negotiating but
Phenian planned to release him.
When I read articles like this I'm really glad that i live in Europe in
democratic country. I'm filled with admiration for what this guy do. I
think he is true catholic because he serves his life to help other
people, especially suffering in North Korea. He is kind of hero that we
need also in our country. In noways people are caring only for their
own business and don't care about others. His mission from the
beginning was hard and impossible but he had to try.
In my opinion this topic is really interesting. It's really helpful
that we can read about one man who wanted to fight in his own way with
Korean resin. People should know that situation in Korea is dramatical.
People who lives there need help and we can't forget about them Story
like this help as remember about this country. I hope he will be
released and come back to USA.