http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/asiapcf/07/13/north.korea.nuclear/index.html
I give a props to N. Korea for taking a step in the right direction by showing their intention of hopefully disarming their nuclear program. The threat of nuclear war escalates each day with more and more individuals seeing these weapons as the greatest means of acquiring power due to the devastation that such weapons can wreak upon civilization. With various nations already having somewhat of a nuclear arsenal already, the desire to have such weapons as "a means of defense" seems to be on the minds of many throughout the world. The unfortunate reality though is that some nations are willing to jeopardize the well-being of their people just so they can attain a level of prestige and power that almost catapults them into the higher rankings of the global leaders in the international hierarchy.
I am not a supporter of nuclear arsenal, nor nuclear programs that are tailored towards weapons development but if the most powerful nations already have an arsenal at their disposal, then the only way that weaker nations can feel protected from such a threat would be to develop their own program. The worst part about this whole arms race is that many nations are willing to place this as their main priority while their people are greatly suffering. Have we lost sight of those who live in poverty everyday and do not get the satisfaction of attaining the bare necessities that every human being is entitled to? Compared to most people in the world, Americans in general live in the lap of luxury but with priorities placed upon such things as nuclear programs, the focus upon those in dire need of attention and assistance is greatly neglected.
The US was called by N.Korea as being "belligerent" due to its constant pressurizing for N. Korea to disarm its nuclear program and if the US continues to throw its weight around, then the disarming would be in jeopardy. The US should act as a strong role model to the world and not as an entity that deems itself superior to those around and could easily just force any nation to abide by its own standards. The US does have a lot of leverage but as time has shown, the current administration has not only jeopardized the well-being of its own people, but have continuously flaunted their power as a means of pressuring the international world to see the world through one set of lenses: that of the US.
It was what Al Gore wrote in Assault on Reason that I feel fits almost perfectly into this scenario: that leaders need to actually discuss issues without automatically assuming that what believes is gospel in relation to the views of anyone, especially those who disagree. Discussion is what essentially is lacking in the government scene, since most individuals go in with the mentality of debating their own views and closing their minds to the beliefs of others....it has become a struggle for power. The fact that N. Korea wants to have direct talks and have shown progress over the past few months have shown that they are on the right track to what a nation should do: discuss a problematic situation and determine what truly is the best course of action for themselves, as well as the international community. The US, in my opinion, should take a page out of this playbook and realize that just because the nation at one point possessed such a strong reputation, does not necessarily mean that they can act and utilize pressure as a means of getting their way. Rather than "bullying" other nations, the US should learn to cooperate and work with other leaders on a one-to-one basis in hopes of hammering out the problems that plague society in general. The nuclear problem in society is one issue, but there are countless others: the time is now to take initiative for change.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Student Activist: Carrie Kagawa (Chicago, IL)
Every so often, I plan on having an entry just for strong student leaders within the Asian American community to share their insight and experiences to the future leaders of this community. What better way to kick things off right than with one of the CoChairs of the MAASU Spring Conference 2007, Carrie Kagawa!
What is your cultural background?
I am half Chinese and half Japanese.
What is your favorite television show?
The Hills. LC is my BFF. Haa, jk. No seriously...
What is your favorite color?
Teal
What have you been previously involved with in the Asian American community?
During my four years in college, I was primarily involved with the Asian Pacific American Coalition, serving as a Community Outreach member (1 semester), Secretary (2 years), and Intercollegiate Off Campus Representative (1 year). I was also a strong supporter of the MAASU conferences during my four years. I attended 6 conferences total! Haha.
When did you first get started with Asian American activism?
I received my first taste of Asian American activism my freshmen year of college. One of my older peers reached out and suggested that I apply for the Asian Pacific American Coalition. I applied and then got heavily involved in the Asian American community. This was my first experience with Asian American activism. Coming from a small town in east central Illinois, there were limited opportunities to get involved with culturally based organizations, specifically Asian American organizations. So this first experience really made an impact on me, and I am thankful that my peer reached out to me and that I got involved right away.
As one of the Co-Chairs for the MAASU SC 07 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, how was the whole experience for you and how did that align with your vision for this conference?
The whole conference experience was fantastic. Everything from the fundraising events, to the board members, to the conference attendees, to the actual conference weekend was a pleasure. There were obviously hard times that we had to work through. But after this experience I have complete faith in the power of student mobilization. My vision for this conference was to try and incorporate all facets of Asian American life. This is everything from politics, to activism, to entertainment, to career building, to Asian American health. I feel our board did a great job of creating an all encompassing conference that was as well rounded as possible. And this display of student organization shows how much students can accomplish.
What do you consider to be the most pressing social issue affecting the Asian American community?
There are many pressing social issues facing the Asian American community, such as racism and discrimination, issues of the glass ceiling, immigration, and employment. However, one issue that I feel is of great importance is the lack of Asian American presence in the education system. In general, there is a lack of Asian American figures and events in the history textbooks. This lack of presence severely neglects a large part of America's history. Asian American history is a great part of the larger American history. And the bipolar nature of history (as a purely black and white story) needs to be adjusted to be more all inclusive.
Who would you say is your hero (besides me)?
Other than Ajay Alexander, my grandmother is my hero. She immigrated to the United States, and literally had $30 when she immigrated to Hawaii. My grandmother then worked three jobs, and eventually brought over my grandfather, my mother, and her three siblings. The struggle she went through to make life better for our family is truly remarkable.
Thank you Carrie for taking the time to share your insight and time with us all. You definitely rock!
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Nothing Amazing About This Racist...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pz-YhaR9lgE
Albert Lin (Finance CoChair of MAASU ECC) brought to my attention this deplorable video where an individual considers it humorous to mock and ridicule Asian Americans by trying to perpetuate racial stereotypes. This is NOT humor. All that it exemplifies is the evident ignorance of this man, who deems himself the "Amazing Racist". There is nothing amazing about him; more like downright pathetic. The worst part about is that he does a series of videos with each focusing on a different racial minority and him being completely ignorant towards those of that designated minority. These racist antics of his are unfortunately encouraging others to view this type of humor as "acceptable", as can be seen in the comments that are located right below it.
Just take some time to watch this video and then go read the user comments, so that you have a better understanding of why this video and others like it are completely unacceptable and degrading towards Asian Americans. One of the users who was commenting on the video called another user a "Gook" (for those who unaware, this is a derogatory word against Asian Americans). This individual and his blatantly racist videos have only perpetuated the ignorance and hatred even further. It is outrageous that such stupidity still exists and that individuals who see this may automatically assume that such remarks are "acceptable" since they are portrayed in many forms of comedy.
Take a step back and think about how many comedians utilize derogatory words and profanity to further accentuate the humor in their routines. There are a handful of them and the numbers seem to be rising. This ignorant individual is just one of many who needs to realize that such remarks and actions are not humorous, if they are viewed as personally attacking an aspect of an individual' s identity. Everything he says and does is degrading towards Asian Americans and those who watch these videos and belt out laughter, are only encouraging him and many others to follow the same path of racism.
Be careful and considerate of what you say to others: whether we realize it or not, there are times when we may make joking remarks without the intention of hurting anyone but if taken out of context, can really stir up animosity. Nothing that ridicules individuals of any minority or cultural background can ever considered humorous and should not be supported in any way. Voice your opinions and concerns when you hear such things: that is the first step to ensuring that such ignorance does that grow forth.
Albert Lin (Finance CoChair of MAASU ECC) brought to my attention this deplorable video where an individual considers it humorous to mock and ridicule Asian Americans by trying to perpetuate racial stereotypes. This is NOT humor. All that it exemplifies is the evident ignorance of this man, who deems himself the "Amazing Racist". There is nothing amazing about him; more like downright pathetic. The worst part about is that he does a series of videos with each focusing on a different racial minority and him being completely ignorant towards those of that designated minority. These racist antics of his are unfortunately encouraging others to view this type of humor as "acceptable", as can be seen in the comments that are located right below it.
Just take some time to watch this video and then go read the user comments, so that you have a better understanding of why this video and others like it are completely unacceptable and degrading towards Asian Americans. One of the users who was commenting on the video called another user a "Gook" (for those who unaware, this is a derogatory word against Asian Americans). This individual and his blatantly racist videos have only perpetuated the ignorance and hatred even further. It is outrageous that such stupidity still exists and that individuals who see this may automatically assume that such remarks are "acceptable" since they are portrayed in many forms of comedy.
Take a step back and think about how many comedians utilize derogatory words and profanity to further accentuate the humor in their routines. There are a handful of them and the numbers seem to be rising. This ignorant individual is just one of many who needs to realize that such remarks and actions are not humorous, if they are viewed as personally attacking an aspect of an individual' s identity. Everything he says and does is degrading towards Asian Americans and those who watch these videos and belt out laughter, are only encouraging him and many others to follow the same path of racism.
Be careful and considerate of what you say to others: whether we realize it or not, there are times when we may make joking remarks without the intention of hurting anyone but if taken out of context, can really stir up animosity. Nothing that ridicules individuals of any minority or cultural background can ever considered humorous and should not be supported in any way. Voice your opinions and concerns when you hear such things: that is the first step to ensuring that such ignorance does that grow forth.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Iraq: The Tension Is Far From Over
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/08/opinion/08sun1.html?n=Top%2fOpinion%2fEditorials%20and%20Op%2dEd%2fEditorials
I came across this article while reading over the Op-Eds of the New York Times. Even though the article does seem to take a distinct political stance in regards to the manner in which the current administration is leading the US, I ask you to look beyond that and actually see the facts that are utilized as support for the individual's argument. Whether you align yourself on the left or right side of the political spectrum is not of the greatest concern nor is that the focal point of this entry; rather, one cannot deny that the escalating tension in Iraq is in part the fault of the United States for assuming that it can overthrow the former dictatorship and establish a stable democracy in its place without any dire consequences. Evidently, that is not the case. As one can see, deception has led the US into a devastating predicament in which, not only has the US placed its troops and its financial stability in an unfortunate predicament, the Iraqi people are in a far worse position as the war has put the lives of many innocent civilians at a greater stake than imaginable.
In my previous entry, I touched base upon the devastation that comes with being stripped from one's comfortable, daily routine to be thrown into an environment that is completely different and unwelcome to a particular individual. This war has forced massive amounts of Iraqis to relocate themselves in hopes of finding a safer place to live and be rid of the dangers that are posed with the constant fighting. It is due to the ethnic and religious discrepancy that is present within this nation that unfortunately so many individuals cannot live in their homes without fear of being attacked by those who feel that such a discrepancy can only be solved through violent means.
The present turmoil is not something that can be overcome within a matter of months or even years; the unfortunate reality is that it will take time (a great deal of it) before any sign of stability can slowly ascend within Iraq. The US, though foolishly placing itself in a lose-lose predicament, cannot solve this predicament alone and is in dire need of assistance from those nations who are dominant forces within the global power structure. Nations such as Britain, France, China, Russia and so forth must lend a hand so that the hostile tension in Iraq does not overflow into its surrounding neighbors and quite possibly escalating the tensions in the Middle East to a state that is far more catastrophic than what is currently posed. The proper steps need to be taken now if any progress is to be made, but until then, it is devastating to even think about how chaotic it must be for those living in Iraq whose lives are in constant danger due to both the war and their own neighbors of different cultural backgrounds (being ethnic or religious).
The threat of terrorism is one that the majority of the world faces and any means of suppressing that threat must be taken in a joint manner, not solely within the hands of one nation. This issue should not rest solely within the realm of politics but actually be understood as something that greatly affects a large portion of the world's population and such tensions do have a greater impact upon individuals throughout the world as instances of such hatred and ignorance flows from one base to another as such ideologies of supremacy remain prevalent amongst those who deem themselves superior to others and utilize violent measures to exemplify this mentality. The danger is out there and unfortunatley with the media's portrayal of the tension in the Middle East, many individuals have become desensitized to the War on Iraq, which is truly unfortunate as there many men and women whose lives are stake every minute because of a clash of beliefs. As I sit here typing this entry out, I cannot help but wonder how fortunate I am that I can sit here and type this entry without fear that my life is not in great danger due to terrorism or constant war. If only we could together do something to help those far less fortunate than we are...
*As characterized, MAASU does not take a political stance on issues, nor does it align itself with any particular political party. The main reason I decided to write about this issue (as well as present an Op-Ed as the source) is to open the eyes of many of an issue that grealty affects those within the US and those abroad in the Middle East (an area of the world that I believe is a part of Asia both geographically and due to the overlap of culture among certain areas of South/Southeast Asia).
I came across this article while reading over the Op-Eds of the New York Times. Even though the article does seem to take a distinct political stance in regards to the manner in which the current administration is leading the US, I ask you to look beyond that and actually see the facts that are utilized as support for the individual's argument. Whether you align yourself on the left or right side of the political spectrum is not of the greatest concern nor is that the focal point of this entry; rather, one cannot deny that the escalating tension in Iraq is in part the fault of the United States for assuming that it can overthrow the former dictatorship and establish a stable democracy in its place without any dire consequences. Evidently, that is not the case. As one can see, deception has led the US into a devastating predicament in which, not only has the US placed its troops and its financial stability in an unfortunate predicament, the Iraqi people are in a far worse position as the war has put the lives of many innocent civilians at a greater stake than imaginable.
In my previous entry, I touched base upon the devastation that comes with being stripped from one's comfortable, daily routine to be thrown into an environment that is completely different and unwelcome to a particular individual. This war has forced massive amounts of Iraqis to relocate themselves in hopes of finding a safer place to live and be rid of the dangers that are posed with the constant fighting. It is due to the ethnic and religious discrepancy that is present within this nation that unfortunately so many individuals cannot live in their homes without fear of being attacked by those who feel that such a discrepancy can only be solved through violent means.
The present turmoil is not something that can be overcome within a matter of months or even years; the unfortunate reality is that it will take time (a great deal of it) before any sign of stability can slowly ascend within Iraq. The US, though foolishly placing itself in a lose-lose predicament, cannot solve this predicament alone and is in dire need of assistance from those nations who are dominant forces within the global power structure. Nations such as Britain, France, China, Russia and so forth must lend a hand so that the hostile tension in Iraq does not overflow into its surrounding neighbors and quite possibly escalating the tensions in the Middle East to a state that is far more catastrophic than what is currently posed. The proper steps need to be taken now if any progress is to be made, but until then, it is devastating to even think about how chaotic it must be for those living in Iraq whose lives are in constant danger due to both the war and their own neighbors of different cultural backgrounds (being ethnic or religious).
The threat of terrorism is one that the majority of the world faces and any means of suppressing that threat must be taken in a joint manner, not solely within the hands of one nation. This issue should not rest solely within the realm of politics but actually be understood as something that greatly affects a large portion of the world's population and such tensions do have a greater impact upon individuals throughout the world as instances of such hatred and ignorance flows from one base to another as such ideologies of supremacy remain prevalent amongst those who deem themselves superior to others and utilize violent measures to exemplify this mentality. The danger is out there and unfortunatley with the media's portrayal of the tension in the Middle East, many individuals have become desensitized to the War on Iraq, which is truly unfortunate as there many men and women whose lives are stake every minute because of a clash of beliefs. As I sit here typing this entry out, I cannot help but wonder how fortunate I am that I can sit here and type this entry without fear that my life is not in great danger due to terrorism or constant war. If only we could together do something to help those far less fortunate than we are...
*As characterized, MAASU does not take a political stance on issues, nor does it align itself with any particular political party. The main reason I decided to write about this issue (as well as present an Op-Ed as the source) is to open the eyes of many of an issue that grealty affects those within the US and those abroad in the Middle East (an area of the world that I believe is a part of Asia both geographically and due to the overlap of culture among certain areas of South/Southeast Asia).
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Taking Life For Granted
http://www.aamovement.net/news/2007/charania.html
How would you feel if one day government officials came into your home and took you away from your family, your friends and everything else you hold dear in this country because you were deemed unworthy of being protected from the dangers of your home country? This may seem like an unrealistic characterization; however, what we do not realize is that this scenario is common occurrence for many families throughout the US, as can be seen through the Charania family in the article posted above.
The problem in society is that we as Americans become so captivated in our own selves and the lives we lead that we may not often take the time to consider how devastating it is to be pried away from the consistency of one's day and threatened to be thrown back into a country where your own safety and well-being is in great danger. Throughout the world, there are many instances of cultural clashes in which individuals of a cultural minority are ridiculed, threatened, and attacked only on the grounds that their cultural affiliation does not align with that of the cultural majority within a designated area. Race, ethnicity, and religious affiliation are just a few of the areas in which cultural conflict stems from. To live a life where you are constantly in danger only because you are culturally different is truly a travesty and thus, many families seek asylum to escape such dangers so that they may attain a level of security and comfort that every human being is entitled to. Even after being in America for so long and having established a solid life here, the Charania family (who are of Indian descent) may lose it all just because their attorneys did not file their asylum papers within the proper period of time.
Rather than focusing on the flaws of the American legal system (this coming from a law school hopeful), the main basis of this entry is, as characterized earlier, the unfortunate reality that we take the lives that we have in America for granted compared to those who are suffering in many parts of Asia due to a cultural clash. Most of us can relate to the fact that our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and so forth strived grealty so that their future descendants could have a better life free from persecution due to their cultural identity, an identity that any individual has a right to be proud of and hold dearly. To seek a better life in a new nation known for treating all individuals with equality is a dream for many (a dream that many at this moment really wish they could experience). Every human being deserves peace and equality, but the unfortunate reality is that this idea is far from realistic. It is hard to even imagine how our lives would be if we were stripped of everything we loved in the world (family, friends, etc) and thrown back to a country where our only memories of it were ones of horror and fear. I hope that the Charania family will be taken care of and be able to resume their lives in America, because the dangers that are posed for being a cultural minority in a place of great cultural tension is unbearable to even think about.
Every so often, take the time to realize how fortunate you are to have the opportunities that are given to you, as well as the joy of being with your family and friends: a life that many can only dream of and even if they catch a glimpse of it, may be in danger of one day being deprived of it if the US government feels that they are no longer protected under their jurisdiction.
How would you feel if one day government officials came into your home and took you away from your family, your friends and everything else you hold dear in this country because you were deemed unworthy of being protected from the dangers of your home country? This may seem like an unrealistic characterization; however, what we do not realize is that this scenario is common occurrence for many families throughout the US, as can be seen through the Charania family in the article posted above.
The problem in society is that we as Americans become so captivated in our own selves and the lives we lead that we may not often take the time to consider how devastating it is to be pried away from the consistency of one's day and threatened to be thrown back into a country where your own safety and well-being is in great danger. Throughout the world, there are many instances of cultural clashes in which individuals of a cultural minority are ridiculed, threatened, and attacked only on the grounds that their cultural affiliation does not align with that of the cultural majority within a designated area. Race, ethnicity, and religious affiliation are just a few of the areas in which cultural conflict stems from. To live a life where you are constantly in danger only because you are culturally different is truly a travesty and thus, many families seek asylum to escape such dangers so that they may attain a level of security and comfort that every human being is entitled to. Even after being in America for so long and having established a solid life here, the Charania family (who are of Indian descent) may lose it all just because their attorneys did not file their asylum papers within the proper period of time.
Rather than focusing on the flaws of the American legal system (this coming from a law school hopeful), the main basis of this entry is, as characterized earlier, the unfortunate reality that we take the lives that we have in America for granted compared to those who are suffering in many parts of Asia due to a cultural clash. Most of us can relate to the fact that our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and so forth strived grealty so that their future descendants could have a better life free from persecution due to their cultural identity, an identity that any individual has a right to be proud of and hold dearly. To seek a better life in a new nation known for treating all individuals with equality is a dream for many (a dream that many at this moment really wish they could experience). Every human being deserves peace and equality, but the unfortunate reality is that this idea is far from realistic. It is hard to even imagine how our lives would be if we were stripped of everything we loved in the world (family, friends, etc) and thrown back to a country where our only memories of it were ones of horror and fear. I hope that the Charania family will be taken care of and be able to resume their lives in America, because the dangers that are posed for being a cultural minority in a place of great cultural tension is unbearable to even think about.
Every so often, take the time to realize how fortunate you are to have the opportunities that are given to you, as well as the joy of being with your family and friends: a life that many can only dream of and even if they catch a glimpse of it, may be in danger of one day being deprived of it if the US government feels that they are no longer protected under their jurisdiction.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Saving Lives for Low Low Prices
http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20070706/hl_hsn/medicaltourismtakesflight
"A heart bypass in the United States costs $130,000, but just $10,000 in India and $11,000 in Thailand. A hip replacement in the United States would cost $43,000 but just $12,000 in Thailand or Singapore. Hysterectomy costs are about $20,000 here but $3,000 in India"....
With the high cost of the American healthcare system, it is no wonder that so many have chosen to aim elsewhere for many major surgeries. The numbers are evidently skyrocketing each year as more and more Americans realize the great financial benefits of going to Asia, Mexico and many such other places that will perform the same surgeries at a price that is more attractive to those who cannot afford the overpriced procedures performed in the US. The only question that is coming to mind: is it really worth it?
The greatest concern that comes with individuals deciding to ship out to attain a cheaper procedure may put their lives at greater risk due to the fact that these facilities may not be as well equiped or specialized in certain areas as many of the hospitals in the US. If one does the proper research and knows exactly what they are getting into by having a certain procedure performed outside the US, then most are given the go ahead to go forth with it. The cheaper price tag is definitely attrative (there is no denying it) but the reality is that many are placed into a position where they do not have much of a choice and are forced to put their personal well-being wherever their wallet/purse leads them.
Now, there is no reason to discredit any of these hospitals. There is no doubt that many of the world's greatest physicians come from all over the world (with a large population arising from Asia). Regardless, the greater issue is that individuals should not have to rely solely on one's financial state to determine where would be the best place for a life-changing surgery. Many nations in Asia are attaining a larger audience due to their comparatively lower prices and thus, greatly benefits many of those who live within the US (due to the strength of the dollar bill). If only the US can follow lead and actually establish prices that are affordable to its people in comparison to the prices in many Asian nations, then would the system in the US have shown its concern for the greater well-being of its population. Evidently, different factors must be taken into account but hands down, medical tourism is going to keep skyrocketing if the system doesn't change....until then, the US will be losing greatly in medical status to those nations in Asia who seem to place greater regard upon human life than the price tag with such procedures.
"A heart bypass in the United States costs $130,000, but just $10,000 in India and $11,000 in Thailand. A hip replacement in the United States would cost $43,000 but just $12,000 in Thailand or Singapore. Hysterectomy costs are about $20,000 here but $3,000 in India"....
With the high cost of the American healthcare system, it is no wonder that so many have chosen to aim elsewhere for many major surgeries. The numbers are evidently skyrocketing each year as more and more Americans realize the great financial benefits of going to Asia, Mexico and many such other places that will perform the same surgeries at a price that is more attractive to those who cannot afford the overpriced procedures performed in the US. The only question that is coming to mind: is it really worth it?
The greatest concern that comes with individuals deciding to ship out to attain a cheaper procedure may put their lives at greater risk due to the fact that these facilities may not be as well equiped or specialized in certain areas as many of the hospitals in the US. If one does the proper research and knows exactly what they are getting into by having a certain procedure performed outside the US, then most are given the go ahead to go forth with it. The cheaper price tag is definitely attrative (there is no denying it) but the reality is that many are placed into a position where they do not have much of a choice and are forced to put their personal well-being wherever their wallet/purse leads them.
Now, there is no reason to discredit any of these hospitals. There is no doubt that many of the world's greatest physicians come from all over the world (with a large population arising from Asia). Regardless, the greater issue is that individuals should not have to rely solely on one's financial state to determine where would be the best place for a life-changing surgery. Many nations in Asia are attaining a larger audience due to their comparatively lower prices and thus, greatly benefits many of those who live within the US (due to the strength of the dollar bill). If only the US can follow lead and actually establish prices that are affordable to its people in comparison to the prices in many Asian nations, then would the system in the US have shown its concern for the greater well-being of its population. Evidently, different factors must be taken into account but hands down, medical tourism is going to keep skyrocketing if the system doesn't change....until then, the US will be losing greatly in medical status to those nations in Asia who seem to place greater regard upon human life than the price tag with such procedures.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Poll: Bruce Lee v. Jet Li
Now, it is rather pointless to throw your opinion around on such a well constructred poll if one does not know who either of these two individuals are. So, to get the gears rolling, I have decided to utilize one of the world's most reliable sources to give a strong biography of each of these icons: Wikipedia....
Bruce Lee: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Lee
Jet Li: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jet_Li
Two of the greatest martial artists in history square off to see who really is the more dominant of the two: the legendary Bruce Lee or the dynamic Jet Li. I will not throw my opinion as to prevent any bias and because only I know the true answer. Well, not really but regardless, the question definitely makes you think: who really would win?....
Bruce Lee: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Lee
Jet Li: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jet_Li
Two of the greatest martial artists in history square off to see who really is the more dominant of the two: the legendary Bruce Lee or the dynamic Jet Li. I will not throw my opinion as to prevent any bias and because only I know the true answer. Well, not really but regardless, the question definitely makes you think: who really would win?....
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Made in China? Time to Recall...
http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING/personal/06/30/not.made.china.ap/index.html
With the recent news regarding the hazardous contaminants found within many products imported from China, one can only wonder what priority quality has in regards to the health and safety of individuals all over the world. There are corporations all over the world that have placed their profit-driven mentality on a higher pedestal than the interests of the consumer (the general population). If individuals cannot buy goods without the added risk of there being a potentially dangerous (possibly lethal) contaminant, then the average consumer has a right to be concerned.
A great amount of the finger pointing has been aimed against the nation of China, mainly due in part to the fact that many of the products recently recalled have beared the distinctive "Made in China" label. Avoiding products that bear that label may seem like the most sure-fire means of ensuring that any products attained for one's own needs due not eventually prove to be greatly hazardous: however, due to the fact that a large amount of the products that can be found at any supermarket, convenience store, etc. are actually imported from China and thus, avoiding products from this nation bears far greater difficulty than one could ever imagine.
There is a risk with the purchase of any product but most consumers understandably are under the impression that only those goods that have passed regulation standards are out in the market for the greater population to lay their claim on. Unfortunately, if care with manufacturing or development is not maintained, then many individuals in the US and globally are at risk to the dangers posed by companies and corporations within China.
The only advice I can give is to be aware of what products are being recalled or under inspection by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It is very easy to return a faulty appliance but when it comes to products that are consumable, that is where the greatest danger lies. China, as well as many other nations I'm sure, needs to be more aware of the dangers posed by faulty manufacturing and unsafe food processing. Money is not everything, because in reality, the safety and well-being of every individual should evidently be placed upon the highest pedestal above everything else. If only that mentality was realistic...
With the recent news regarding the hazardous contaminants found within many products imported from China, one can only wonder what priority quality has in regards to the health and safety of individuals all over the world. There are corporations all over the world that have placed their profit-driven mentality on a higher pedestal than the interests of the consumer (the general population). If individuals cannot buy goods without the added risk of there being a potentially dangerous (possibly lethal) contaminant, then the average consumer has a right to be concerned.
A great amount of the finger pointing has been aimed against the nation of China, mainly due in part to the fact that many of the products recently recalled have beared the distinctive "Made in China" label. Avoiding products that bear that label may seem like the most sure-fire means of ensuring that any products attained for one's own needs due not eventually prove to be greatly hazardous: however, due to the fact that a large amount of the products that can be found at any supermarket, convenience store, etc. are actually imported from China and thus, avoiding products from this nation bears far greater difficulty than one could ever imagine.
There is a risk with the purchase of any product but most consumers understandably are under the impression that only those goods that have passed regulation standards are out in the market for the greater population to lay their claim on. Unfortunately, if care with manufacturing or development is not maintained, then many individuals in the US and globally are at risk to the dangers posed by companies and corporations within China.
The only advice I can give is to be aware of what products are being recalled or under inspection by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It is very easy to return a faulty appliance but when it comes to products that are consumable, that is where the greatest danger lies. China, as well as many other nations I'm sure, needs to be more aware of the dangers posed by faulty manufacturing and unsafe food processing. Money is not everything, because in reality, the safety and well-being of every individual should evidently be placed upon the highest pedestal above everything else. If only that mentality was realistic...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)