There is no question that the internet is an influential and ubiquitous part of modern life, It´s affect on society has both positive and negative dimensions.
1.23.2010
How is the Internet changing society?
1.22.2010
Life learning is a necessary part of modern society.
Definition –lifelong learning (LLL) is all learning activity undertaken throughout life, whether formal or in formal.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, more and more people are working hard and studying constantly in order to keep up. So, there is no doubt that lifelong learning plays integrated part in our lives. I hold this belief for the following.
First and foremost, with advances in technology and health care people have a longer life expectancy than a few decades ago. Thanks to this factor, people have more chance to develop their career in different directions. Hence, lifelong learning can assist then to open more doors of opportunity as their career progresses.
Additionally, the forces of globalization are driving people to compete aggressively not only with other local employees but with those in other countries. For instance, up-to date technologies now enable many tasks to be outsourced to be cheapest supplier, which are causing people to respond to constant change, they need to learn new skills and upgrade themselves for the sake of saving a job. Furthermore, there is no lifelong employment, as employees change jobs often, and also highly skilled newcomers will threaten older employees who do not pass the necessary skills. Therefore, keeping learning is needed for all individuals.
12.27.2009
In a democracy, voting should be compulsory, do you agree or disagree?
The issue of whether or not voting should be compulsory attracts different points of view. While some people think that it could be the only way to establish a stable society, others concede that the right to vote should not be enforced. Speaking for myself, I am in favor of the former.
The policy of mandatory voting indeed has its positive perspectives. First and foremost, the pursuit of true democracy should depend on the majority vote. As people have the obligation to vote, each election giants its validity. Moreover, compulsory voting might result in less boycotted events. By this I mean, if people do not use their right to vote, they have no right to criticize the government. Last but not least, non-compulsory voting might lead to a strangle hold over power by certain political groups, which may inevitably lead to corruption.
Additionally, we can not deny that in a true democracy existing in a democratic civilization, government has not right to force its citizens to act against their will. Furthermore, what if people do not like any candidates? How can the government manipulate their authority to force compliance? However, people have to be aware that true democracy does not come without effort, and it takes people a long time or even centuries to acquire true freedom. Hence, each citizen has the duty to use their right to vote for their government.
12.23.2009
The advantages and disadvantages of television
Television has become an integral part of Taiwanese life fro the last decade. However, there is no doubt that television has caused cultural change. While some changes have positive aspects, others have negatively affected our society.
12.02.2009
Space research
One the one hand space research has great benefits for the future of mankind. First and foremost is the exploration of the possibility of inhabiting other planets. As climate change and global warming are becoming worse than ever. Things such as overpopulation, natural disasters and food shortage not only threaten human life but also other species surviving on the earth. Hence, space research is a vital undertaking that might enable people to live in other planets. Furthermore some applications of space research have resulted in advanced technologies that people can apply in many dimensions. For instance, satellites and GPS help people to navigate location and also enable humans to make accurate forecasts which can be used for saving people’s lives. Additionally, space research helps people to get a better understanding about our earth, people can learn much about it by observing how the environment contrasts with other planets. The more we understand, the less threats we face.
Admittedly, it is quite difficult to deny the drawbacks of exploring space. Huge costs in terms of money, effort and professional expertise are needed in order to conduct research. Moreover space travel is exceedingly danger, as astronauts may risk their live doing research.
In summary, I would concede that precious resources many seem more wisely spent on other urgent matters. However, many studies have shown that there have been numerous inventions resulting from space research projects, which have improved our day to day life. Hence, we have to look forward with long-term vision in order to help us live better and longer lives.
11.24.2009
compare different the models of public transport in Taipei

The MRT serves as a metropolitan public transportation system. Its main purpose is to quickly transport people between short distances. It consists of six lines and much of Taipei central downtown areas are near the system. As the inexpensive price of ticket(ranges from $20 to $60 for a one-way ticket), it is convenient, clean and safe way to commute. MRT not only has become more and more popular but has also been successful in reducing traffic jams during the rush hour in Taipei.
Another excellent and economical means to travel in Taipei is city bus. With the low-cost ticket price( $15 to $20 per zone) people can get wherever they want to go. Although buses cover wide areas of Taipei and are cheaper than the MRT, it may be too confusing for people who are not familiar with the bus routes of Taipei. As there are too many routes and each routes is not straightforward. It might lead to time wasting. Conversely, if people know how to take advantage of the bus, it may offer you an easy way to access a number of hiking trails and urban sights around Taipei at a budget price. This is especially true when it connects with MRT via a Yoyo card allowing people to receive an extra discount.
In terms of Trains and HSR, the main function of these tow modes of transport is for long distance conveyance. Accordingly, they connect north and south all major centers along with many suburbs in Taiwan. Although there are frequent departures of trains and HSR, it is more economical to take the MRT or bus to get around Taipei.
To sum up, it seems to me that though the cost of the MRT is slightly more expensive than bus, it is worth the extra money. People will not easily get lost with the MRT and they also need not get a headaches figuring out the many routes or spending time in the busy traffic.
The pros and cons of using credit cards

Credit cards are an integral part of modern life. They have both advantages and disadvantages.
On the one hand, owning credit cards has a number of merits. To begin with convenience is probably the primary reason why people use credit cards. As shoppers don not need to bring much money when they go out nor do they need to worry about running out of cash, credit cards have become increasingly popular in peoples’ lives. Furthermore, people can not only use credit cards to facilitate their purchasing, paying bills or online shopping, but at same time they can earn bonuses, discounts or rewards. Additionally, they offer a wise approach to managing personal expenses, which would help people spend money more prudently.
Seen from another angle, credit cards do have potential risks. First, impulse buying may occur while shopping, as when people pay for something with credit cards, they do not really feel they are spending money. So, the danger is shoppers may spend for too much and buy things without due consideration. Second, the monthly interest rate or bank fees will incur once you start using credit cards. Last but not least, overusing credit cards may have the potential to cause people to get into debt. Since many of credit card holders overspend and end up having to use other cards to balance their debt, a vicious cycle may result in their financial dealings which may see their life spiraling out of control with debt.
On the whole, using credit cards have both positive and negative aspects, from my perspective it is just a matter of how to use them properly and do not let a piece of plastic card control our life.
11.17.2009
Which concepts are important in maketing academic field?
First and foremost, the comprehension of consumer behavior is inseparable from the marketing field. Marketing is all about buying and selling. Knowing consumer behavior can help people get a better understanding of how the purchasing decisions are made, leading to, building marketing plans and planning strategies for the product and service to successfully cater for different customer demands.
In my view another aspect of the marketing field is cultural awareness. Thanks to the impact of globalization, marketing opportunities are increasing faster than ever. For the purpose of extending an organizations’ marketing opportunity in global areas, knowing each local laws, rules and customs will help an organization to be better aware of which business model is most suitable in an area. More precisely, customizing business in different areas is needed as every region has different culture and customs.
Furthermore, the skill of managing competition is part of the marketing field. Learning how to handle rivals and cope with the relationship between a firm's role and the competitive environment can help companies create their competitive advantage successfully. By this I mean people will know how to adjust their business plans and strategies to distinguish their target of market from others.
An understanding of all of the above aspects is,in my perspective, needed for students who study in marketing.
Which is the best option of paying higher education?
In current society, we all agree that higher education can provide people with a greater chance of success. But when it comes to who should pay for higher education people hold different view. From my perspective, government should fund their citizens’ education.
On the one hand, there are numerous benefits that might accrue if government pays educations fees. To begin with, more people would be able to access the chance of higher education, since they can depend on sound education system provided by their government. Hence, more experts would be produced. Specifically the overall educational level wound be improved via producing more professionals, which is not only good for citizen’s quality of life. In other words, there would be more professionals if higher education places are available.
On the other hand, some people think students should not depend on a handout from the government to pay for their courses. As government might incur a financial deficit in order to pay for all education bills. It seems that methods of individual or government loans can alleviate this problem because those people who are taking higher education courses rely on themselves. Despite this fact, it is worth noting that some student may choose to give up their schooling as they could not afford such incredible tuition.
To conclude, regarding this issue what sore of methods is the best? My own view is that although the government might face financial risks. I still believe that the government has the obligation to provide higher education to those citizens who are eager to learn and keen one more knowledge.
The advantages and disadvantages of having a dog.

On the one hand, the benefits to people’s lives of owning a dog are obvious. For one thing, a person’s life wound become more pleasant and relaxing through raising a dog. This is because they can take care of them, play with them and be interested in them, which helps to reduce daily stress and enhance their leisure time. For instance, for some people who are living alone, having a loyal companion in their life might help them to reduce the feeling of isolation. Likewise, some studies have shown that having a dog in a person’s life lowers the risk of suffering heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure. Additionally, owing a dog can increase social interaction with family and others. This is especially true for families with children, as children can be trained to have a sense of responsibility and showing sympathy to others.
Seen from another angle having a dog does have some disadvantages. First, there is high cost of maintenance. Thing such as damage dogs from eating things, food, grooming and vet bills will all come as a result of owning a dog. Second, dogs might take a while to train, so you have to shower them with your attention all the time, because it might mess up your house, pee and leave hair everywhere. Last, dogs cry and bark a lot. You might feel annoying when they are barking and also have to worry that the barking might disturb your neighbors.
After comparing the above, it seems to me that the advantages of owning a dog outweigh the disadvantages providing that you are ready for the responsibility and commitment of dog ownership.
11.06.2009
Where I would like to be in five years from now
On the professional front I would like to acquire a marketing master degree from a top world university first before moving on to my next career position. During this period of study I expect I could learn at least two other languages apart from English, which not only help better my prospects of working for an international firm in the future but also broaden my personal network of relationships.
From a relationships point of view, perhaps after accomplishing the above I will start a family. Since the stage of being married is part of life. Finding someone to spend the rest of your life with, having children and taking care of them would complete my life. Without that it seems that life lacks deeper significance.
Furthermore, spiritual accomplishment is truly important as one gets older. Having a spiritual belief to rely on people are might likely satisfied with their present, since life sometime is quite difficult. If might stand at cross road, lose our direction or we don’t know how to go on, keeping a belief inside of our heart may offer some relief.
Above is how I imagine my life in five years time in order to realize my dream.
11.05.2009
Apple iPod AIDA

You will appreciate iPod’s sound quality. Even if you connect it to your car stereo, music still sounds perfect! Don’t worry about running out of power. The iPod has a lithium-ion battery so that it can play 36 hours of music! Besides, it only takes 2 hours to restore 80% of power.
All in all, the Apple iPod Classic is your best choice. Enjoy music everywhere you go, I promise you will enjoy every moment in your life with iPod Classic.
11.03.2009
What are the important factors in maintaining good health?
To begin with, an important factor is exercise. Exercising for at least thirty minutes every day can accelerate our metabolism and improve blood circulation. It also helps us to reduce stress, making us more energetic. Therefore, we should do such exercises as walking, jogging and stretching three times a week.
In terms of a balanced diet, it is recommended that one should eat at least five groups of fruit or vegetable daily. They contain plenty of necessary nutrition, which is one of essential factors to maintain our body function. Moreover, keep away from junk food, which only offer you fat. Other things we should avoid are eating too much and eating two to three hours before going to bed.
The final factor in staying health is to have enough sleep. Sufficient sleep not only reduces depression but makes us relaxed, which is good for our memory. If we get adequate and good quality sleep, we will have energy to tackle our daily problems.
All of the above are three important factors in maintaining good health. Whatever methods we choose we should remember that keeping fit is a lifelong career, we should not give up if we want to have a better life.
The symbol that means the most to me
Steve Jobs was born in 1955 in San Francisco, California, and he dropped out of college because he could not afford the tuition. Then he started a company with his friends in a garage when he was twenty years old. After 10 years, this company, “Apple Computer”, had grown into a $2 billion dollar company with over 4000 employees. However, at the age of 30, Jobs was fired. Instead of leaving Silicon Valley, he started all over again with his passion. Although he lost Apple, he did not lose faith and continued to pursue what he loved and created technologies- NeXTStep and Pixar. Meanwhile, Apple was under immense pressure from Microsoft and lost billions of dollars in 1996. He was asked to come back to Apple and was named CEO in 1997. Under his leadership, Apple regained profitability and became a world-renowned firm.
The symbols of Steve Jobs are not simply the iPhone, iPod, Mac or his companies, more important is his enthusiasm for creating new technologies, the strong will power for surviving crises along with his charming personal style. These aspects of his personality have resulted in his achievements and the products that he has created for us.
From my perspective, Steve Jobs symbolizes the power of personality. Without his determination and vision, the Apple firm would not have succeeded and become the icon that it now is.
10.28.2009
Should gambling be allowed in Taiwan?
On the one hand, allowing gambling business is a good chance for a country to stimulate its economic. To begin with, government can utilize the tax income form these businesses to increase revenue, which will allow the government to improve social welfare services, the infrastructure sector and provide a sound education system. Moreover, more job opportunities might be provided by gambling industries, thus, the unemployment rate will decrease at the same time. Last but not least, casinos would be a great source of income to replace tourism during the winter months.
Seen from another angle, paying a price will be the consequence of legalizing casinos in Taiwan. Many believe that operating these businesses will create a culture of gambling. By this I mean that people are encouraged to gamble indirectly and some people may become addicted. As a result, the government would have to spend a fortune later to help these addicted gamblers kick their habit. Furthermore, legalizing gambling may leads to high crime rates and environmental degradation.
In general, there are advantages and disadvantages of building casinos. In my opinion, I think the government should deeply consider all conditions and the welfare of its citizen before legalizing gambling businesses in Taiwan.
What are the disadvantages and advantages of international aid?
On the one hand, foreign aid provides poor nations extra capital to finance their development. Infrastructure, education and living standards can be improved in these receiving countries so that citizens can have a better life. For example, good infrastructure leads to good transportation, sound education provides more knowledge and expertise, sufficient food helps a nation out of famine. Moreover, some international assistance comes for the sake of preventing people suffering from infectious disease such as Aids pandemic, Chikungunya fever… etc.
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages of foreign support. Firstly, those receiving countries may thereby rely on international aid and ask for more and more help. Furthermore, aid might encourage corruption to occur. Some precious resources may not go to those people who are truly in need of help, instead aid may be misused by some certain groups. Last but not least, foreign aid that is given for political purpose might lead to conflict between donor countries and recipients.
Overall, it is my belief that if international aid is based on giving long-term benefits and is well planned and orchestrated, it will bring more advantages than disadvantages.
10.24.2009
The best news I have ever received
I have been accepted in to a university, with over one hundred years of history and an elegant and picturesque landscaped camps, it has a good reputation all around the world. As result of its excellent teaching it produces lots of high achievers in many fields every year. Because of this background it ranks in the top forty universities in the world as well as attracting more and more students who study hard to get in.
It will be an important step in my future career, because having this precious opportunity not only can allow me to access a great deal of teaching resources for this best university but also expose me to a diverse multi-culture learning environment.
What makes a good student ?
First and most importantly is strong –self discipline, A good student doesn’t need anyone to force them to learn, since they can study unsupervised and are always eager to gain knowledge. For instance, they question everything they learn from their teachers or text books and they actively involve themselves in their study. As a teacher for them, just provide guidance and wisdom to help them along their path to knowledge.
Being a good student also requires being good at time management. They wisely use their time in everything. Especially, when studying they focus fully on their lessons, they do not just bum the midnight oil hoping to pass the next days’ test. Since they know getting adequate rest is a vital part of healthy learning.
Moreover, having a good and balanced social relationship is what a good student striving for. They use learning to get closer to people and tech each other. Learning makes a good student become humble instead of using their knowledge as a tool or power to show off to others.
Things you can not live in without
The most important aspect in my life is to have goal. If I lack it I think I would lose my way in life’s journey, since I would not be able to find any purpose in life. Once I have a goal I have the motivation to live my life meaningfully.
In terms of relationships,I could not image life would be living without them. Family, friends and colleagues, are part of my everyday life. We take care ad support each other, you learn from them, I think that is one of mission of life.
Also, I can not deny that money is a significant factor in lives. Having steady finances, not only can I do the thing I like without any worry, but I can also help and support other s. In other words, money allows people to become independent.
In conclusion, I know it is not easy to have all above, so I have to find a balance, the lost either means life is not complete.
To buy a house or not buy a house, that is the question.
The principal reason for my view is that owning a house is a long term commitment. As you have to tie up your income. It means you have no freedom to have good time. Those things such as traveling, studying or socializing become unattainable. Moreover, you have the stress form needing to work if you buy a house by taking out a mortgage. Specifically, Such as a long term loan forces you to work and you can not afford the consequence of losing your job, since you have the pressure of relying on your monthly salary to pay it. Even if the job makes you unsatisfied or makes you want to quit, you have no choice but to compromise and continue working. The final factor in making me not want to buy a house is the high cost of maintenance, For example, once you own your home, you have to spend plenty of money on decoration along with needless material goods for the sake that you want to make it complete.
Above all, it is my belief that buying a house at this moment is not a wise decision. Although owning a house might be a long term investment that forces you to save, the risk of losing value is far too high to contemplate.